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MEMOIRS 




Elkhart .C"^ 
St. Joseph 
Counties 



INDIANA 



\ 

TOGETHER WITH BIOGRAPHIES OF MANY PROMINENT MEN 05 

NORTHERN INDIANA AND OF THE WHOLE 

STATE, BOTH LIVING AND DEAD. 




©hjieago 

Soodspeed Bpotheps, Publish)eps 

1893 

J 



/■- . 



•^ 



1G236 



aOHN MORRIS OOMPHNY, 

. .p RIMTSRS ^ glNDER S. 




Prbfacb. 



5^1 






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^IThe 



HE pixblishers, with much pleasure, present this beautiful volume to 
( Jl their friends aud patrons for whom it is prepared. It will be found to 
be a valuable work, full of interesting personal aud historical reminiscences 
of luany of the leading families and many of the most important occurrences 
in the eventful past of the two counties. Every individual or family sketch 
was carefully type- written and submitted by mail to a representative of the 
family and, in nearly every instance, was corrected aud prom[)tly returned to 
the publishers, thus insuring almost absolute accuracy. If mistakes ai"e found 
in the few sketches that were not returned, the publishers, as is their custom, 
stand ready to correct the same by special errata sheet to be sent to every sub- 
scriber. The illustrations will be found to add very materially to the value of 
the book. We are satisfied our work will bear the closest scrutiny and sustain 
our well-known reputation for accuracy and fidelity. 

The Publishers. 



liNiD^X. 



A 

I'AliE 

^Tirnold, Judge Joseph D 41 

Augustine, Michael 89 

Ash, Dr. William N 323 

Alley, William H 245 

AlbiD, John W 316 

Anglemyer, John 347 

Arthur James A 477 

Alderman, Charles B. (deceased) 479 

. Arnold, George 403 

Anderson, Leander 548 

Asire, George H 668 

App, H. B 678 

Alverson, Isaac N 681 

Atkins, Eugene 682 

Aslin, James 685 

B 

Bunch, Gilbert H 506 

Blackford, Hon. Isaac 513 

Bunch & Reusberger 514 

Brown Brothers 408 

Boone, Philip B 410 

Boyd-Snee, Harry 373 

Boss, Johanu K 534 

Bechtel, Daniel (deceased) 587 

Bechtel, Samuel (deceased) 538 

Bechtel, John 539 

Bechtel, Henry 541 

Bechtel, David 542 

Blough, William D 572 

Bingham, Hon. E. Volney 617 

Beck, George 619 

Beyerle, Dr. H. J 626 

Barbour, Dr. Julius E 654 

Beatty, Dempster 667 

Borough, Dr. John 701 

Berkey, Valentine . „ . . . 728 

Berkey, Daniel W. ..^. 730 

Berkey, Peter D. . „ 732 

Berkey, Lewis 733 

Blue, Abner 761 

Barney, Hon. George T 31 

Barney, Samuel E 33 

Bird, George M 33 

Brodrick, John H 43 

Brodrick, Nehemiah F 43 

Best, William W 72 

Baker, Lester F 77 

Boyd, William R 78 

Butterworth, Dr. William W 80 

Butterworth, Charles M., M. D 81 

Bechtel, Rev. Amos 92 

Braunsdorf, R. L 97 



PACE 

Blocher, Christian ](14 

Bechtel, Jeremiah 108 

Brown, Dr. Jacob R 126 

Beyrer, John 134 

Beyrer, Jacob D 134 

Butler, William A 141 

Blue, William 160 

Baldwin, Silas (deceased) 173 

Berkey, David 174 

Beardslej' Family 178 

Beckley, Norman 180 

Beyrer, William 134 

Balyeat, Jonathan 199 

Baumgartner, Dr. C. C 221 

Bucher, Christian 246 

Black, Francis 280 

Baker, Darwin H. (deceased) 283 

Boyd, Johu W 305 

Bogue, Prof. Byron J 311 

Banta, Harvey F 313 

Brunner, Vincent 315 

Brehmer, Charles A 330 

Barkey, John 331 

Bowers, Jacob B 335 

Berlin, Solomon (deceased) 336 

Beiger, M. V 356 

Berteling, Dr. John B 366 

Bancroft, Zelotes 373 

Brenneman, Rev. Daniel 455 

Brenneman, Timothy H 456 

Butler, Hon. John Maynard 457 

Bemenderfer, Henry 464 

Beane, William A 494 

Bissell, Henry W 499 

c 

Campbell, Hon. Marvin 818 

Curtis, Alex 358 

Colfax, Hon. Schuyler 467 

Chatten, Robert E 475 

Crull, Elliott 484 

Chester, Harry S 493 

Curtis, Clanden K 385 

Cummins, D. E 890 

Coppes Family, The 413 

Coppes, Samuel D 415 

Coppes, John D 421 

Coppes, Frank 421 

Conrad, John 546 

Clark, Edward 560 

Chamberlain, Ebenezer .M 633 

"Cripe, Benjamin 628 

Chandler, Uriah 639 

Conrad, David 641 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

Chaffee, Rev. A. B 680 

Collins, Charles M 683 

Gulp Family, The 754 

Cathcart, B.Y 765 

Conn, Hon. Charles G 26 

Campbell, E. A 57 

Chase, C.H 58 

Cook, John 61 

Crockett, Elmer 66 

Cunningham, Oliver M 91 

Clayton, Thomas 121 

Chamberlain, ('apt. Orville T 135 

Cowan, William, Sr 143 

Carpenter, Chauncey C 144 

Calvert, Thomas D."(deceased) 149 

Carpenter. D 187 

Caldwell Cassius 303 

Chirhart, Jacob H 306 

Corby, Very Kev. William, C. S. C 210 

-. Cripe, Samuel F 326 

Chalfant, Thomas B 339 

Cummins, Stephen M., D. D. S 349 

-Cripe, Peter 251 

Cordrey, Moses A 253 

Clark, C. H 254 

Czyzewski, Rev. Valentine, C. S. C 371 

D 

Dudley, Gen. W. W 37 

Dodge, Capt. Henry C 51 

Dodge, James S 53 

Defrees, Calvert H 87 

Dotson, Alexander 161 

Donaldson, William B 188 

Delotter, J. IM 283 

Daugherty, Dr. C. A 397 

Defrees, .Tared 303 

Defrees, Dr. Henry J 361 

De Coudres, Louis 450 

Davenport, John 488 

Davenport, John B 488 

Davis, Hon. W. J 503 

Dell, Jacob H 660 

Dausman, Jlichael (deceased) 710 

Dinehart, Leonard 757 

E 

English. Hon. William H 40 

Elder, John 68 

Elbel, Henry F 121 

Endley, Wil'l A 123 

Ellis, John W 128 

Elsea, Edwin M 164 

Eaton, Jacob 268 

Eberhart, Fredrick George, Jr 371 

Ernst, John S '. 379 

Elliott, Byron K 470 

Eby, Jacob 387 

Eby, Jacob B 388 

Elfis. Prof. Georg-o AY 550 

Eberhart, Adolphus 673 

Evans, Stephen 768 

F 

Finn, Edwin 40 

Fister, George H 46 

Fischer, Henry 69 



PAGE 

Fryman, Eleazer 106 

Fink, Peter 113 

Fickenscher, Henry H 236 

Foster, Edson 243 

French, Cornelius A 269 

Funk, Walter A 329 

Fassnacht, C 357 

Forstbauer, Gottlieb 360 

Folk, George 485 

Fair, E. D 520 

Fredrick, Jonas 401 

Frank, Leonard H 529 

Freese, George, Sr 584 

Freese, Bernhard 586 

Freese, George, J r 586 

Freese, John^F 587 

Freese, Edward 587 

Frank, Charles 599 

c 

Gilman, E. T 50 

Gaskill, C. J 95 

Gaskill, H. L 96 

Godfrey, Dr. Julia I) 107 

Greene, Jackson 126 

Gillette, C. J 143 

Goff, Frank L 156 

Goldman, F. J 163 

Gordon, Alexander 167 

Geisinger, Henry 173 

Good, Samuel, (deceased) 190 

Gooley, Lewis 307 

Griner, Simon 225 

Greenwood, Andrew J 233 

Green, C. W 267 

Gaylor, Albert 318 

Gaylor, Albert 319 

Gaines, Jesse H 349 

Gardner, Joseph E 468 

Gray, Hon. Isaac P 488 

Grimes, Dr. John H 395 

Greene, Dr. J. B 645 

Grimes, Dr. James F 722 

Good, Isaac S 746 

H 

Harris, Dr. J. F 35 

Hubbard, Horace S 44 

Hendricks, Thomas A 47 

Hubbell, Hon. Qrrin Z 60 

Holdeman, William II 76 

Hull, Louis A 100 

Haun, Jeremiah 102 

Haeske, Charles 31. R 120 

Hess, Israel 155 

Hire, John 161 

Hoover, Abraham 186 

Hixon, Henry AV 258 

HiUier, Samuel A 276 

Higgins, Henry D 295 

Howard, Hon. Timothy E 307 

Halford, Elijah W 341 

Hoover, Samuel, (deceased) 351 

Hawkins, William W 866 

Harrison, AA'illiam Henry 375 

Houser, Daniel W 460 

Hammond, Gov. Abram A 461 



IXDEX. 



PAGE 

Hufl, Eli 8 470 

Habey, John B 476 

Hass, William 478 

High, Jesse E 487 

Hovey, Gen. Alvin Peterson 498 

Hose, Jacob 384 

Harrison, Geu. Benjamin 407 

Henkel, Charles D 552 

Hiibbell, Abijah L 565 

Hoke, Henry 571 

Hoover, David L 573 

Himbaugh, John 583 

Harper, John 603 

Heatwole, Joseph H., M. D 606 

Heatwole, Joel P 608 

Hawks Familv, The 648 

Herr, Elbridge G 666 

Hill, S. Weslev and Thomas J 671 

Hay, John " 684 

Hobbs, W. R 689 

Hire, Jesse 699 

Helminger, Christian 904 

Hapner, Abraham 709 

Hascall, Gen. Milo S 721 

Hudson, A. L 738 

Herring, Frederick Arnold, M. 1) 763 

I 

Ireland, David A 02 

Inmel, Cassius M 182 

Inks, John 8., M. D 277 

Inks, Thomas 377 

Iffert, Louis 354 

Irwin, John W 522 

Inbody, Nicholas 624 

Inwood, William 694 

J 

Johnson, Col. Ruel M 18 

Johnson, L. H G5 

Johnson, H. D 115 

Jones, Seth A 155 

Jennings, Dr. .Fames W 191 

Johnson, John J 239 

Jackson, Newton 278 

Jetton, William L 301 

Jernegan, Edward Allen 343 

Jaquith, Charles W 374 

Jackson, Francis M 384 

Judkins, W. H 393 

Jackson, Dr. Amos C 590 

Johnson, William Warren, M. I) 605 

Juday, John S 656 

Juday, John N 747 

K 

Kurtz, Paul II 96 

Kauffman, Solomon M 215 

Kavanagh, James 224 

Kiefer, G. Frank 234 

Knepp, Albert J 251 

Kilmer, Dr. Samuel L 303 

Kantz, Jacob O 324 

Kuntsman, Mrs. Sophia 339 

Kamm, Adolph 352 

Kizer, E. W 380 

Kutz, Charles E 460 



PACK 

Kerstetter, James L 496 

Knott, Asa (deceased) 533 

Kurtz, Leander P 549 

Krau, John 559 

Kurtz, Daniel P 560 

Kent, A. P 583 

Kercher, William 614 

Kinnison, Edwin W 647 

Kindig, Mrs. Laura A 653 

Kantz^ Harvey W 680 

Kendrick, Charles H 703 

Kauffman, Hon. J. S 762 

L 

Liphart, Conrad 63 

Liphart, Charles H 64 

Loughman, George W 81 

Leibole, E. 1 86 

Loughman, J. H 93 

Loucks, Jacob 99 

Lower, Daniel 117 

Lehman, D. A 270 

Leeper, Samuel 273 

Longley, Hon. W. 11 316 

Leeper, David Rohrer 333 

Lent, Dr. E. J 455 

Lake, Richard C 462 

Long, Daniel E 480 

Layton, Willis 497 

Landon, Calvin C ... 511 

Lesh, Hon. John H 517 

Laidlaw, Edwin C 411 

Leer. Daniel 556 

Lowry, John 557 

Livengood, Isaac 558 

Lehman, John D 566 

Lusher, John, Sr ,587 

Lumbert, O. N 600 

Lang, Frederick 602 

Latta, James M 643 

Lohr, Prof. Eugene F 061 

Lockwood, Dr. Reuben L 693 

Luke, John 097 

Long, Martin 704 

Latta, Milton Miller, M. D 712 

Lederer, John N 736 

Landis, Christian 757 

M 

Matthews, Gov. Claude 17 

Miles, Dr. Franklin 28 

McBride, Hon. Robert W 29 

Middleton, William D 34 

^losier, Hon. Cyrus F 48 

Morton, Hon. Oliver Perry 55 

JIaxon, Strafford ' 59 

May, V. N 65 

Murray, Gordon Noel 73 

Mueller, Fredrick W 84 

McDowell, William 108 

Mack, William 113 

Miller, William 136 

Miller, John F 137 

McConaughy, Mrs. Jane 153 

Miller, David 157 

Mather, Jonathan R 175 

Miller, W. C 176 



viii 



INDEX. 



Merritt, Byi on E. (deceased) 185 

Miller, Joshua D 193 

Mulligan, Joseph E 315 

Myers, J. H 217 

Mather, Oeorge D 221 

Mather, Geo ge 1) 222 

Alef'ombs, William 247 

Molliiigor, J Jhn (' 295 

MfMichael, William C 299 

McMichael, John 398 

Minnick, Jacob 322 

Myers, Jacob D 338 

Miller, Jacob B 368 

Myler, Robert 370 

>lbl ler Mary of St. Angela 377 

.AI it'hell and Lent, Drs 453 

Minnich. F. V. B 481 

Milourn, Ueorge 493 

Alonroe, John (deceased) 495 

Mai guu, Hanson G 504 

Mai iiing, John 505 

Mcl'onaUl, Hon. Joseph Ewing 506 

Moore, John, M. D 519 

Moon, C. W 524 

Martin, John II 389 

McKnight, Milton 391 

McDonald, Albert 394 

McDonald, John J 396 

Miller, Eli 397 

Miller, Eli 398 

Michael, Edmund (deceased) 532 

Meader, ilyron E 546 

Michael. John 547 

McMaius, Abraham 553 

McAllister, William A 553 

Miller, Elder James H 576 

Jliller, Adam B 577 

Mvers, Bethana A 592 

Miller, David C 596 

Jlercer, Milton 631 

McNaughton, John 625 

Miller, Thomas 637 



Nicholson, G. Ross 

Newell, Uncle Nathaniel. 



Owen, Robert 

Oliver, James 

Osboru, Hon. Albert 

Ott, Jacob F 

Oechtering, Very Rev. August B. 

Oren, WiUiam it 

Ouderkirk, Andrew H 



Perlev, Samuel S 

Phillips, Peter 

PetHev. E. H 

Pfeiffer Brothers and Descendants. 

Putt, Dr. Franklin L 

Prescott, Oramel O 

Phillips, ^[elvin R 

Pierce, Dr. W. A 

Poorman, Samuel F 

Pontius, John H 

Peffley, Daniel W 

Porter, Albert (i 

Price, Benjamin F 

Paulus, Henry 

Phillips, Dan" (deceased) 

Platter, William D 

Pooley, Nathan 

Pippinger, Daniel E 

Pepple, Solomon 

Pippenger, Jacob D 

Perkins, Pardon J 



744 
749 



33 

303 
474 
658 
726 
736 
756 



119 
149 
158 
232 
234 
263 
369 
371 
459 
463 
464 
486 
404 
549 
554 
581 
595 
602 
640 
696 
766 



."tu:sg, John H 271 



Ream.^r, Jacob II ... . 
Rensberger, Noah.. . . 
Rockstroh, George J . 
Rockhill, William D. 



Menuonite Publishing Company, The .... 632 

Michael, A. B ". 639>^^Rupel, Robert D. O 

Moyer, Samuel 646^Rutherford, William A 

Jleyer, F. J. Lewis 663 | Rodi^augh, David 

Jliller, William 672 Rodibaugh, Lorenzo D 

McDonald, Martin 1 682 Russell, E. B 

JIusser, Ephraim 690 | Ritter. .Jacob 

Alusser, Joseph 691 

Jliller, David B 698 

Myers, Michael F 713 

Mitchell, John W 735 

Menges, Andrew J 739 

Miller, Alfred B. (deceased) 740 

Jliller, William H 139 

McCoy, Luther 751 



N 

Neal, Dr. William A 39 

Nickel, Louis 90 

Nichols, Prosper 145 

Newman, John J 152 

Newman, Eli 376 

NeS, Josephus 380 

Nickels, Jonathan W 516 

Neff, Samuel C 402 



Redmond, J ."ibn 

— Robison, James L 

Riddell, George H 

Robinson, Lucius K 

Rummel, Isaiah 

Rich, George W 

1 Rockwell, Edward P 

Romaine, Franklin G 

Ross, Capt. William R 

Rowell, George P 

Roach, James A 

Rensberger, Samuel 

Rodibaugh, David D 

Reed, Abraham I : . . . . 

RafEensperger, Adam 

Rarick, John H 

Romaine, Samuel B. (deceased). 

Rood, L. B 



82 
85 
87 
88 
90 
103 
114 
116 
116 
197 
216 
228 
285 
300 
341 
482 
484 
486 
509 
564 
589 
601 
605 
636 
636 
643 
658 
686 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

Rahrer, John D 715 

Rood, Nelson 686 

Rensberger, C. S 515 

Reynolds, James 769 

Reynolds,John 772 

S 

Stephens, Andrew 36 

State, James H 37 

Stephens, Benjamin F 38 

Sage, JIartin G., (deceased) 44 

Sage, Norman 56 

Stover, George H 65 

Studebaker, Samuel W 67 

Schropp. Ira S 79 

Stauffer, Or. Il.li 79 

Slabaugh, Wilson 83 

Sternbertr, John 94 

Smith, jiimes llcil 105 

Smeltzer, John 109 

Spohu, Dr. G. W 151 

Sykes, H. B 159 

Stiver, Joseph 168 

Schrock, Jacob D 179 

Schrock, Abraham 195 

Schrock, Yost 196 

Stutzman, Joseph J 206 

Showalter, George W 208 

Schrock, Rev. Benjamin 212 

Stutz, Christian 241 

Slear, J. W 242 

Smith, John 11 262 

Schindler, John J 275 

-Smith, Barney C 276 

StauSer, Heiiry 279 

-Studebaker, Clem 287 

Schindler, William N 29y , 

Stahly, Christian vS 

Stahly, Peter H .it3 

Swanger, John Q ., 9B9 

Stevens, Horace H 306 

Sorin, Very Rev. Edward 331 

Staley, M."B 354 

SibleV, Irving A 359" 

Stover, Lewis T 365 

Snee, Harry Boyd, M. 1) .j-372 

Smoker, Jacob .^ 447 

Shively, George B ^ . . . 448 

Shively, Marvin II , 449 

Stouffer, Christian K ^,i 459 

Slaughter, .lohn Burdick 469 

Smith, John A 481 

Shinn, Isaac 494 

Shidler, A. W 501 

Smith, John S., (deceased) 513 

Stewart, John 518 

Scoles, Samuel 523 

Sandilands, Mrs. Dorothy 390 

Stouder, Christian 402 

Strycker, Solomon J 406 

Sawyer, Lester 529 

Service, Jeremiah 530 

Stump, Solomon 536 

Stump, Ephraim 537 

Sims, Professor William II 542 

Smoker, Daniel 574 

Smoker, John 575 



PAGE 

Sbrock, Daniel D - 578 

Swartz, C. AV , .593 

Stoll, JohnB ... 609 

Stutsman, Rev. Benjamin F 637 

Starr, Thomas 665 

Shock, George W .- 677 

Shank, Abraham ■. 677 

Schafer, D. B. I v 679 

Smith, Milo A 692 

Schwin, John 695 

Smeltzer, Daniel 726 

Seusenich A. S., M. D 727 

Simon, Jacob S 733 

Smeltzer, Anthony 110 

Stevens, Edwin H [751 

T 

Turner, Perry L i 36 

Thompson, Hon. Richard W 43 

Turner, Dr. Porter , 45 

Trisinger, Frederick ,101 

Thompson, Mark B ;120 

Thornton, John 132 

Trojer, Jeremiah •. . 204 

Teters, Dr. Benjamin F 228 

Thomas, George A., Ph. G 231 

Thorp, Dr. A. L 314 

Turnock, Joseph 393 

Thomas, William Andrea 620 

Towle, Charles G 640 

Thomas, Dr. Warre--. H 738 

Taylor, Col. L. M.. deceased) 774 

u 

L'iery Fs-niuy 422 

Jlerj, Leyi D 426 

Ul ery, John D 426 

Ulerv, Samuel 427 

Ullefy, Joseph C 428 

Ulery, Joseph, (deceased) 429 

riery, Samuel F 430 

riery, John 431 

Ulerv, Jacob L 432 

Ulery, Levi 433 

Umbaugh, Christian 618 

L^mmel, Joseph 748 

V 

Vincent, E.J 85 

Violett, Isaiah 158 

Vail Jesse D 170 

Vanderlip, W. B 260 

Van Dinter, Louis H 286 

Vannuys, Harvey L., D. 1) 467 

Voorhees, Hon. Daniel W 495 

Vanderhoof, E. R 690 

Violett, John H 718 

w 

Winchester, Charles H 54 

Walters, Jacob 8 7(1 

Wills, Emanuel R 88 

Wialer, Oliver P Ill 

Wilhelni, Alexander Ill 

Waldorf, B. F 119 

Wolf, Hon. Thomas J 125 

Witter, George 1 132 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

Wedde 1, James E 145 

Wickw ire, W. F 169 

Witter , George 198 

Worli, Abel E 209 

Walm er, John 213 

Winet'renner, Peter 230 

-West, W. F 248 

Willard, E. P 257 

Williams, Isaac 313 

Ward, Wilbert 323 

Walters, George S 329 

Ward, Jacob 330 

Woolve^rton, Jacob 344 

Winliler Brothers 355 

Walsh, Hev. Thomas C 376 

Wisler Family, The 434 

Wisler, J onas 437 

Wisler, j!.<cob H 438 

Wisler, Isaac 439 

Wisler, Job a 8 442 

Wisler, Alb ert 443 

Wisler, Davi d 443 

Wisler, Jaraet' M 444 

Whisler, John H 440 

Wysong, Henry 444 

Wysong, Josiah 445 

Wysong Family 446 

Wysong, Rev. Daniel 447 

Willard, Hon. Ashbei' P 463 

Walter, John U 465 

Williams, Gov. James D. 476 

Wahl, Jacob, (deceased) 491 

Wahl, William F .' 493 



Walker, Edward W 512 

Watkins, Mrs. Sarah 515 

Wilson, Hon. Henry D 531 

Weis, Henry 405 

Whitmer, David 527 

Whitmer, Isaac 528 

Weamer, Robert H 567 

Weldy, Abraham 568 

Weldy, Jacob B 569 

Weldy, John K 570 

Walk, Hon. John B 582 

Walters, John H 589 

Wenger, Martin L 662 

Weaver, David 1' 708 

Whippy, William A., M. D 714 

Wright, William B 735 

Wilson, William W 737 

Wickham, Dr. W. A 745 

Wood, Charles 753 

Y 

Yoder, Jacob 150 

Yant, John 351 

Yenn, Simon M 623 

Yoder, Joseph 632 i 

z 

Zeitler, John V 244 

Zigler, John W 340 

Zook, Daniel 423 

Zinn, George W 664 

Zook, Daniel 716 



ILLUSTRATIONS. 



ILL^USTRATIONS. 



PAdK 

Matthews, Gov. Claude 48- 49 

Johnson, Col. Ruel M 80-81 

Dodge, James S 130-130 

Conn, Hon. C. G 147-148 

Hascall, Gen. Milo I60-IG6 

atoll, Hon. J. B 183-184 

Bissell, Henry W 201-2U2 

Thomas, Dr. W. H 219-220 

McMichael, W. C 237-238 

Willard, E. P 255-256 

Chamberlain, Capt. Orville T 273-274 

Neal, Dr. W. A 291-292 

Howard. Hon. T. E 309-310 

Baldwin, Silas (deceased) 327-328 

Gilman, E. T 345-346 

Hubbell, Hon. O. Z 303-364 

Kilmer, Dr. S. L 381-382 

Nickel, Louis 399-400 

Miles, Dr. Franklin 435-436 



P.VOE 

Cummins, D. E 453-454 

Elliott, Hon. B. K 471-472 

Cummins, Dr. 8. M 489-490 

Ross, Capt. W. R 507-508 

Collins, CM 525-526 

Greene, Dr. J. B 543-544 

Perley, S. S 561-562 

Turner, Perry L 579-580 

Schropp, Ira 8 597-598 

Lontjley, W. H 615-616 

Culp, H. J 633-634 

Newell, Nathaniel 651-653 

Walmer, John 669-670 

Butler. Hon. J. M 687-688 

Gray, Hon. LP 705-706 

English, Hon. W. H 723-724 

Chase, Hon. I. J 741-743. 

Farmers' and Traders' Bank 416 

Coppes' Hotel 419 



KRRATA. 



ERRATA. 



The name Kizer on page 380 is improperly printed Kiger. 

D. B. I. Schafer on page 679 should be D. B. J. Schafer. 

In the sketch of Mother Mary of St. Angela, page 377, it should be noted that Gen. Sher- 
man's wife died before he did, and that the establishment at Salt Lake was not compelled to 
rely upon the protection of the Government. 

On page 566, in the sketch of Abijah L. Hubbell, the following additions came too late to 
be properly corrected. Ruth was born July 19, 1886, and Helen H. was born May 24, 1888. 



"pio-topicil cind ©io^rapl^ioal 

A^MOIRS 



OF 




ELKHART AND ST. JOSEPH COUNTIES. 
INDIANA. 



OV. CLAUDE MATTHEWS, recently elected by the Democrntic party 
governor of Indiana, is a son of Thomas A. and Eliza (Fletcher) Mat- 
thews, both branches of the family being farmers, and his maternal grand- 
father serving as one of Kentucky's representatives in Congress. He was born 
December 14, 1845, in Bath county, of the Blue Grass State. He attended 
such schools as the country afforded until fifteen years of age, when he 
removed to Mason county, his father having purchased a farm near Mays- 
ville. Here the schools were better, of which he availed himself by riding six 
miles each way daily. In 1863 he entered Centre College, Danville, Ky., 
from which he graduated in June, 1867. January 1, 1868, occurred his marriage 
with Martha R. ^Yhitcomb (only child of the late James Whitcomb, governor of 
Indiana, 1843 to 1849), and same year removed to his farm near Clinton, Vermillion 
county, this State, where he has ever since resided, engaged quite extensively in 
grain and stock farming. Vermillion county has always been strongly Republican, 
but in 1876 he was persuaded to make the race for the legislature, and was elected liy 
nearly three hundred majority, notwithstanding that the county that year was 
nearly four hundred Republican on the State ticket. Mr. Matthews, in 1882, made 
the I'ace for the State Senate in the district composed of Parke and Vermillion 
counties, and although this district was Republican by 1000 majority, he was de- 
feated by less than three hundred. In 1890 he was called upon to head the State 
tic^ket for secretary of State and was elected by nearly twenty thousand. At the late 
State Convention of 1892, although a candidate for renominatioii as secretary of State, 
his party again placed him at the head of the ticket as candidate for governor. Mr. 
Matthews has always been engaged in farming, that being his sole interest, and in- 
tenils returning to that work at the close of his official life. He has been prominent 
in the stock-breeding interests of the State, especially in short horn cattle. He 
was also an active member and is yet of the Farmers Mutual Benefit Association, 
and was president of his county assembly at the time of his election as secretary of 
State. 



18 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Hon. David Tdrpie, one of the present senators from Indiana, iu the United 
States Congress, is justly recognized as a man of superior ability and one of the 
foremost lawyers of the State. After receiving a good practical education he studied 
law, was admitted to the bar at Logausport, Ind., in 1849, was appointed judge of 
the common pleas court in 1854, and iu 1850 was elected to the bench of the circuit 
court. In 1853, and again in 1858, he was elected to the lower house of the State 
Legislature. In 1863 he was elected United States senator to succeed Gov. Joseph 
A. Wright, and after the expiration of his term was engaged in the practice of his 
profession in Indianapolis. He also served Marion county iu the State Legislature 
several terms and the session of 1874-75 was elected speaker. In 1878 he was 
appointed one of the three commissioners selected to revise the laws of Indiana and as 
such served three years. In 1886 he receive<l the appointment from President 
Cleveland of United States district attorney for the State of Indiana serving as such 
until March 3, 1887. He was elected to his present seat of United States senator 
February 2, 1887, and the day following his retirement from the United States 
marshalship witnessed his induction to a membership in the highest legislative body 
of our land. Judge Turpie is not only a Democrat in the highest political sense 
of the word, but is a Democrat in the widest acceptation of the term. Of unques- 
tioned ability, a ready debater, a fluent orator, he stands today among the fore- 
most men of the State. 

Col. Kuel M. Johnson. The story of the life of the worthy citizen should be 
given to the public. It should be read by all our people, that they may profit by 
the example. Its lessons should be studied, and the good they inculcate impressed 
upon the minds of the youth of our land. All may glean from them kernels of 
wisdom for present use and store up knowledge and information which will be of 
benefit in after life. It is of such a citizen that we write. It is to such a man that 
we here point the public mind and direct the people's thought. The story of the 
lite of the subject of this sketch is no ordinary one; for few men in the State have a 
more brilliant record as a soldier, or a more upright and distinguished one as a 
civilian, than Col. Ruel M. Johnson, of Elkhart, Ind. Of none can it well be said 
that his record can be more profitably perused bj' the living, or with greater pro- 
priety be transmitted to the future for the benefit of those who will come after us. 

The month of August, 1862, was one of the darkest for our country of all the 
gloomy periods of our late Civil war. Many and terrible disasters had befallen our 
brave armies at the front, and cast their darkest gloom over the homes of the loyal 
North. The demand for reinforcements to fill up the depleted ranks among the 
brave soldiers in the field was very great, and notwithstanding the most energetic 
efforts of loyal men everywhere, and their eloquent appeals to the patriotism of the 
people, many localities failed to respond with their proper quotas, and the minds of 
men desponded and their hearts shuddered lest the cause of the union should fail, 
and the Government be overthrown. 

In this dark hour of our country's history, Ruel M. Johnson, then a mere youth, 
studying law at Goshen, this State, threw aside his law books, and, announcing his 
determination to join the armies of the union and fight for the old flag and the 
grand cause it represented, went out among the citizens of his county, and asked 
them to accompany him to the seat of war, and aid in the defense of the Govern- 
ment. So fervent were his appeals to their patriotism, and so effective his eloquent 
requests to come with him, that in the short space of five days more than one hun- 
dred of the brave sons of Elkhart county's yeomanry enrolled themselves under 
his leadership, and, promptly electing him as their captain, tendered their service to 
the Government, were accepted and later became Company D of the now renowned 
One Hundredth Regimeut of Indiana Infantry Volunteers. On reporting his com- 
pany to the adjutant general of the State, as ready to march, Capt. Johnson was 
directed to proceed by wagon to Warsaw, and there he would be furnished with 
transportation by the commandant of the district to Fort Wayne, the rendezvous 
for the regimeut of which his company was to form a part. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 19 

To obtain the uecessary number of wagous to take a huudred meu to Warsaw 
was no easy matter; but the young oflacer was equal to the emergency. The day 
his company was to proceed to Warsaw was also the day the ''Non-Combatants" 
of the county had been ordered to appear before the county board to be relieved 
from liability for military duty, and hundreds of them with their wagons and teams, 
lined the streets of Goshen, coming as they did from all parts of the county to be 
excused from taking up arms in defense of the Government extending them pro- 
tection. Capt. Johnson, rightly deemed these people proper subjects for " tribute," 
and as they were there to secure exemption from military duty, while his men were 
going to the "front" to bear the burden of these "Non-Combatants" as well as 
that of themselves, he at once pressed them, their wagons and teams into service, 
and thus compelled them to contribute toward the defense of their country, by 
transporting, free of charge, the men of Company D to Warsaw, on their way to 
the seat of war. It is probable that this is the tirst instance during the war, of en- 
forcing the "Sherman bummer" policy in any loyal State. 

Arriving with his command at Warsaw, this young officer foimd a still greater 
ditHculty to surmount. The Government had failed to provide transportation for 
his men to Fort Wayne, and the Pennsylvania railroad officials refused to carry 
them to that point unless they paid their fare. The Captain and his friends offered 
to guarantee the fare, knowing that the commandant of the district, who was then 
at Fort Wayne superintending the sending of other troops to the " front, " would 
furnish the proper transportation as soon as they reached there, but this would not 
satisfy the railroad conductor, and the latter refused to move his train unless the 
men were taken off the cars, or their fare paid in money. Capt. Johnson had 
courage, but no money, and, having explained the circumstances and offered 
to guarantee the fare, without avail, taking out his watch and looking the conductor 
in the eye, made the following forcible little speech: "Mr. Conductor— My men 
are here on their way to the seat of war; they have been ordered to Fort Wayne, 
and they are going there to night and on this train; I have offered everything that 
is fair. Now, I will give you just five minutes' time in which to make up your mind 
to take them there without further parley. If you do not conclude to do so in that 
time, I will put my own men on the engine, take possession of the train, and run it 
through to Fort Wayne myself." 

Before the time expired the conductor capitulated, the gallant captain and his 
men were taken into camp, and this is also the first capture of a railroad train, prob- 
ably, that took place during the war. The determination, decision of character and 
courage thus early evinced by this young officer characterized his whole subsequent 
conduct during the war, and many times saved his men from various hardships and 
privations. From Fort Wayne this company was soon moved to Camp Morton, 
Indianapolis, where the One Hundredth Regiment, of which it formed a part, was duly 
organized and ordered to Memphis,Tenn., there becoming a part of the grand "Old Fif- 
teenth Army Corps," commanded by Gen. Sherman, and constituting a part of the 
army of Gen. Grant, then beginning the movement on Vicksburg. Col. Johnson 
and his command bore a conspicuous part in all the actions and movements leading 
up to the capitulation of Vicksburg and the capture of Jackson, the capital of :Missi8- 
sippi. 

His regiment was ever afterward continued a part of the Fifteenth Army Corps 
which was originally organized by Gen. Sherman, and with that great commander 
took part in the campaign to relieve the garrison at Chattanooga, and also accom- 
panied him in his grand march from Atlanta to the sea. At the battle of Missionary 
Ridge, his regiment, of which he had previously been made major for gallant con- 
duct in the field, gained the distinction of being"^ the first to reach the summit when 
the ridge was stormed. In this brilliant engagement, which was purely a voluntary 
movement of the whole army of Grant, Maj. Johnson, who had just come into com- 
mand of his regiment through the disability of his superior, greatly distinguished 



20 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

himself, being in the thickest of the fight, having his horse shot from under him, 
receiving four bullets through bis cciat, and being slightly wounded by a piece of 
shell in the right cheek. After pursuing Bragg to Braysville, the regiment with 
other troops was detached to relieve Buriiside at Kuoxville, which having been suc- 
cessfully accomplished they returned, suffering sorely for food and raiment, and took 
up winter quarters at Scotsboro, Ala. ; but were soon ordered to garrison Bellefonte, 
Ala. 

Here Maj. Johnson thoroughly drilled his regiment, and placed them on an 
excellent war footing. It had the reputation of being one of the best drilled regi- 
ments of the Fifteenth Army Corps, being able to execute "on the double quick" any 
movement laid down in the tactic^i. When the spring of 186-t arrived, the whole 
Federal army prepared for an active and aggressive campaign. The rebels were de- 
fiant; Grant seemed almost the only Federal commander who could win battles; en- 
listments in the North, owing to the eiforts of treasonable organizations and other 
causes, were slow, and the gloomiest period of the war approached and cast its dark- 
ness on the land. But the resolute soldiers in the field girded on their armor and 
prepared to carry the struggles, as the South itself said, " to the last ditch." The 
One Hundredth Regiment, still a part of the Fifteenth Ai-my Corps,was attached to Gen. 
McPherson's army of the Tennessee, and with it moved toward Atlanta. It fought 
at Snake Creek Gap, Resaca. Dallas, New Hope Church, Big Shanty, Kennesaw 
Mountain, Nickajack Creek. Chattahooche River, Decatur, Cedar Bluffs, Jonesboro, 
Lovejoy and Atlanta. At the battle of Resaca, Maj. Johnson, with a heavy skir- 
mish line, flanked a rebel brigade, which, with a battery, was holding Osterhaus' 
Division in check, and drove it from its works, receiving great praise from Gen. 
McPherson, who was present on the field and observed the movement. Gen. Har- 
row, commanding the division, in his ofBcial report of this battle, says: "On the 
morning of the 13th of May, when near the Calhoun road, the command was formed 
in order of battle. The First Brigade, Col. Reuben Williams, Twelfth Indiana Vol- 
unteers, on the left of the first division; the Second Brigade, then Col. Charles C. 
Wolcott, Forty-sixth Ohio, and the Third Brigade, Col. John M. Oliver, Fifteenth 
Michigan, in the reserve, and in this order moved upon the enemy, meeting but lit- 
tle opposition until the open road on the left of the Resacca road was reached. 
Here the skirmishers under Maj. Johnson, One Hundredth Indiana Volunteers, were 
pushed rapidh^ forward and drove the enemy into his works on the ridge west of 
R'saca. At this time, Capt. Griffith's First Iowa Battery placed two guns in posi- 
tion, and under cover from the fire of these guns the skirmishers were again ad- 
vanced by Maj. Johnson, and drove the enemy from his rifle pits on the road." Col. 
Albert Heath, commanding the One Hundredth Indiana Volunteers, in his report of 
the part taken by his regiment in this battle, says: " My oflScers and men conducted 
themselves gallantly, but I shall do injustice did I not make special mention of Maj. 
R. M. Johnson, of my regiment, who was in command of the skirmish line of your 
brigade, for his coolness, prudence and gallantry, and I most earnestly hope he may 
be properly rewarded for the great service he rendered that day, riding along the 
whole line of skirmishers, inspiring the men by his heroic e.xample and personally 
directing every movement. Before the capture of Marietta, Ga., Maj. Johnson was 
temporarily detached from his regiment and made chief skirmish officer of his divis- 
ion of the Fifteenth Army Corps, and as such opened the battle of Kennesaw Mount- 
ain, capturing the outer line of the enemy before daybreak, which made it possible 
for him and his skirmishers to, and they did, reach the summit of the mountain, the 
first of any of Sherman's army. At Dallas a duty was performed by Maj. Johnson 
which deserves special mention. The Fifteenth Army Corps under Gen. Logan oc- 
cupied the right flank of Sherman's army and was in position with its battle line in 
the form of an " L," with its outer side toward the enemy. The skirmish line 
covering its front was some three miles long. The enemy was holding Altoona pass 
with his lines well secured on either side of the same. To drive him from his posi- 



ME no IRS OF I y BIAS A. 21 

tion by a direct assanlt was next to impossible. Sherman concluded to force him 
out of this impregnable position by a flank movement to the left. This required 
the Fifteenth Corps to be withdrawn from his right and moved toward and to extend 
his left flank. It was a movement not easily accomplished without loss, because it 
must be done in the face of the enemy. By command of Gen. Logan, Maj. Johnson 
was placed in charge of this long line of skirmishers covering the front of the Fif- 
teenth Corps, with instructions to so manage it if possible as to conceal the move- 
ment of the troops in changing from the right to the left flank of the army, and then 
withdraw them and rejoin his command. The space between the contending forces 
was covered with a thick growth of underbrush which contributed to the success of 
the movement. At midnight Maj. Johnson passed along his line and gave instruc- 
tions to the various oflBcers on duty, and soon thereafter tire was opened all along 
his line, indicating to the enemy that an attack was imminent, while the infantri- at 
the same time began its movement from its works to the rear and left flank of our 
army. By daybreak our forces were all at a safe distance to the rear and some 
three miles from their former works and in new works, prepared to resist any attack 
the enemy might make upon them. Seeing this, Maj. Johnson commenced to with- 
draw his skirmishes from the enemy's front and so skillfully did he do this duty and 
so well had he managed the line during the movement of the main tjody of the 
troops, that not only did the enemy fail to discover their withdrawal during the time 
the movement was being made, but even his skirmishers were utterly ignorant of 
the withdrawal of their support until they had been brought off their line and as- 
sembled in the rear at the angle of the ■' L, " when the gravity and danger of the 
situation flashed upon them, as they saw that in order to reach their command and 
join our forces they must march at least three miles parallel with and not more than 
a hundred rods distant from the enemy's lines, with nothing between them and to 
screen them from the enemy's observation and consequently certain capture than a 
mere strip of woods happily grown up with underbrush and densely covered with 
forest trees. At first, as was natural, they were disposed to seek safety in flight. 
That feeling prevailed but for a moment. There they stood, three hundred men 
and oflScers, looking each other in the eyes, and those eyes flashing back to each the 
intelligence that safety was to be found only in remaining calm and cool and trust- 
ing all to the skill and courage of the officer who had brought them thus far out of 
their dilemma. All eyes were tui-ned to the Major. Coolly dismounting from his 
horse and fastening him to a tree near by, as though no enemy were in miles of 
them, he commanded them to fill their haversacks with hardtack found in boxes left 
behind by the troops when they moved out of their works. This restored their 
courage and dispersed their fears. They filled their haversacks with the " soldier's 
comforter," and prepared themselves to join their commands as if it were but an 
ordinary march, when in truth it was the most dangerous and hazardous one made 
by them during the war. To keep up the appearance of security of the situation, 
the Major, mounting his horse, with a loud ringing voice gave the command to '' fall 
in," " forward, march, " as if no enemy were within an hundred miles of that local- 
ity, and all along that "parallel line of march " he insisted that as much noise 
should be made by his men as if they were with the entire army. Upon approaching 
the new works where our troops were drawn up in readiness to resist an expected 
attack from the enemy, the Major and his command struck up the refrain, '' We'll 
Hang Jeff. Davis on a Sour Apple Tree," and this was taken up by the "boys" 
within the trenches and ran along the whole line of the Fifteenth Corps and no 
song was ever more lustily sung by any body of troops or more enjoyed by those 
thus safely arriving within our lines. On reaching the works. General Logan, who 
with his staff had come out to receive this Spartan band of soldier skirmishers, 
warmly greeted them and complimented the Major very highly on his skill and 
success in saving himself and command from capture, and also for having by his 
management of the skirmish line, during the movement of the troops, possibly pre- 



23 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

vented a battle in which heavy loss must have been sustained. The enemy did not 
discover the absence of our troops from their front or that our skirmishers had 
been withdrawn from the field until about three o'clock in the afternoon, and only 
then after having made a gallant charge on our breastworks to find them empty and 
abandoned by our forces. This was one of the most difficult movements made by 
any portion of Sherman's army during the war, and its success, especially its ac- 
complishment without bloodshed, was largely due to the skill of the officer placed in 
charge of the skirmish line of the Fifteenth Army Corps on that occasion. 

After the capture of Marietta, Ga. , the One Hundredth Regiment, under Lieut. - 
Col. Heath, was detached to garrison that village, and there remained while the 
main army of Sherman continued to advance upon Atlanta. But Maj. Johnson 
was too active and valuable a soldier to be allowed to remain idle and in the rear, and 
was, therefore, ordered to the front to serve as chief skirmish officer of Gen. Harrow's 
Division of the Fifteenth Army Corps in front of Atlanta and approaching that 
city from the direction of Decatur. On the morning of the 22d of July (the day 
Gen. McPherson was killed) when the enemy had withdrawn his main line from in 
front of Atlanta in order to concentrate his forces upon the federal left flank, though 
leaving a strong skirmish line to keep up appearances Maj. Johnson was ordered 
to throw forward his skirmishers covering the entire division front, which he skill- 
fully and gallantly did, sweeping back the line of the enemy three miles through 
the woods until almost upon the fortifications around the city, observing which, and 
knowing the gravity of the situation, they opened upon him hotly with shell, grape 
and canister to check his advance. To save his command, he concentrated his 
skirmishers in hastily constructed rifle pits, and sent couriers to inform Gen. Har- 
row of his success and situation. But in the mean time the whole army swept 
forward and were soon in possession of the enemy's breastworks around the 
city of Atlanta. The couriers of Maj. Johnson failed to find Gen. Harrow, 
whereupon he reported for orders to Capt. Wheeler, of Logan's staff, and 
was directed to assist the commanders of the brigades of the division in repell- 
ing the enemy who had thrown heavy forces upon the Fifteenth Corps. Three 
times the enemy in his front was repulsed with great loss. On the right of the 
Fifteenth Corps was the division of Morgan L. Smith, and next, on the left, Har- 
row' s division. Through an oversight of Gen. Smith's, a large body of rebels 
managed, in their fourth charge upon his lines, by passing through an unprotected 
cut on the railroad, to reach the rear of Smith's division, which resulted in throw- 
ing his troops into great confusion. Maj. Johnson, observing this, and not know- 
ing the cause, rode rapidly forward to ascertain the difficulty, and aid in rallying 
Smith's troops. Suddenly, ere he was aware, he found himself covered by the 
guns of the enemy who peremptorily demanded him to dismoimt and surrender. 

Seeing at a glance the folly of disobeying, he laughingly said, " Well, boys, I 
guess you have got me, "' and he did as he was ordered. His coolness saved his 
life, for had he endeavored to gallop off, he would have shared the fate of Gen. 
McPherson, who was killed on that same day, in another part of the field, under 
very similar circumstances. 

In speaking of the battle of Atlanta, July 22, 1864, Gen. Harrow, in his official 
report says: " I regret to add that, during this engagement, the gallant Maj. John- 
son, One Hundredth Indiana Volunteers, my picket officer, was captured by the 
enemy in the gorge to the rear and right of my lines while encouraging the troops 
to hold their position. He possessed in a high degree all those qualities which make 
the accomplished soldier, and his loss is severely felt." Gen. Reuben Williams, 
then commanding the First Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, in his 
official report of this battle, says: "I deeply regret the loss from the service, at the 
present time, of Maj. John B. Harris, Twenty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, 
wounded, and Maj. R. M. Johnson, One Hundredth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, capt- 
ured on the 22d, formerly of the brigade, but more recently of your staff. Their 



MEMOIUS OF INDIANA. 33 

places can hardly be filled and their loss will be deeply felt in their respective regi- 
ments." The captors of Maj. Johnson took him to Atlanta, whence he was sent to 
East Point, thence toward Griffin, on the way to Macon, Ga., the place where 
federal officers captured from the Western army were imprisoned. On the third 
day's march toward Macon, by watching his chance, he fell back toward the rear of 
the column, and finally, unseen by his guards, plunged into a thicket near the road- 
side. Here he remained concealed until the whole column of prisoners, seventy - 
five officers and 1,700 men, had passed, and then as fast as he could foot it put 
several miles between himself and his former guards. He made good his escape, 
and by traveling nights, and receiving food and guidance from a friendly negro, 
finally reached Little River, where, unfortunately, he was recaptured by a small 
squad of rebels placed there to guard the bridge he attempted at night to cross. 
He was taken back, and in due time arrived at Macon, where he found his fellow 
prisoners. Soon after this, in a limited exchange of officers, he was specially chosen 
for exchange by Gen. Sherman, who by this selection testified to his value as an 
officer and soldier. Before his exchange, however, he had been conveyed to Charles- 
ton, where, with Maj. -General Stoneman and other prominent federal officers, he 
vias placed in the line of fire of federal artillery, then bombarding that city, the ob- 
ject being to divert the fire and save the city, by the knowledge of the peril, to the 
federal officers. Fortunately no one was killed. 

Upon being exchanged, he returned to Atlanta and resumed command of his 
regiment, and, after aiding in driving Hood across the Tennessee, returned with Sher- 
man to Atlanta, and thence with him marched to the sea. Gov. Morton, at its re- 
ception at Indianopolifi, at the close of the war, thus spoke of this regiment and its 
gallant commander. Col. Johnson: "At Grisvvoldville, Ga., his regiment took part 
in one of the most notable engagements of the war, when 1,300 Federals whipped 
1 '2. 000 rebels in a square fight without works; 300 of the noble 1,300 were of the 
One Hundredth Indiana, and nobly did they sustain the credit of their State by 
their gallant conduct on that bloody field." 

"From Savannah they proceeded through the Carolinas, fighting bravely at 
Branchville, Congaree Creek, Columbia and Bentonville, and, in fact, capturing 
the whole State of South Carolina, and all of North Carolina they wanted, and 
arriving at Goldsboro, N. C, March 24,1865, thus marching some 1,300 miles and 
fighting some seventeen heavy battles; while from Dalton to Atlanta they were 
continually under fire for 'one hundred days.' The maneuvering of this regi- 
ment, under fire, by Col. Johnson, at Bentonville, N. C, elicited the highest praise 
from Gens. Logan and Howard, who were upon the field. They assisted in forc- 
ing the surrender of Johnston at Raleigh, and thence made the great 'quickstep 
march' of Sherman's army, by way of Petersburg and Richmond, to Washington, 
where they mustered out of service June 9,1865,having219 men and twenty -four offi- 
cers." The One Hundredth Regiment, under Col. Johnson, was the first to enter 
Columbia, S. C. , where they witnessed the spread of the fire started by the rebels 
to destroy the cotton, and thus prevent it from falling into the hands of the rebels. 
They knew that the statement of the Confederates that Columbia was fired by the 
federals was untrue. Col. Johnson, upon entering the city, saw the cotton bales 
lying in the streets on fire, and saw the flames spread and envelop the city as soon 
as the wind arose. He says: " It was the insane attempt of the Confederates to de- 
stroy their cotton, and prevent its falling into Sherman's hands, as was done at 
Savannah, that resulted in the burning of the city of Columbia, and Sherman and 
the Federal troops did all it was possible to do to avert and prevent that disaster." 

At Bentonville, Col. Johnson, commanding his own regiment of 350 men, and 
the Sixth Iowa of 150 men, was directed to drive back a large cavalry division on 
the outposts of the enemy's front, so that Sherman's infantry could attack the main 
line. This he promptly and skillfully did, forcing them back to the distance of six 
miles. While thus engaged, a portion of the enemy' s cavalry succeeded in flanking 



24 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPEICAL 

Col. Jobasou's command, aud in throwing a strong body of men between his advance 
line aud his reserve. At this point, Gens. Logan, Howard and Woods and their 
staffs came up to observe the progress made by Col. Johnson, seeing which the 
rebel cavalry detachment determined to capture those general officers if it could be 
done. But Col. Johnson saw the dilemma at once,and promptly shouted the order to his 
regiment, "Forward on the right l)y tile into line, double quick, march, fire." The 
promptness with which his command was executed, no doubt saved the federal officers 
from capture, and the}' were empathic in their praises of the readiness, coolness and 
military .skill of Col. Johnson. 

It is believed this was the only time such a movement was ever made by any body 
of troops of any army, in any war on the field, and in battle and in the face of an 
enemy charging them. It was the resistance of a cavalry charge hy what amounted to 
a bold and intrepid countercharge of infantry, and proved as unexpected to the 
cavalry as it was original in conception and successful in execntion, and resulted in 
throwing the rebel cavalry into utter confusion and disorder, and in completely 
routing them, while itsaved Col. Johnson's command, and Gens. Howard, Logan and 
Woods and their staffs from capture, or possibly a worse fate. The capture of these 
generals at that time would have been a severe blow to Sherman, the entire army 
and the union cause. 

This ended the hard fighting for the One Hundredth Regiment, although they 
were present at Goldsboro and Raleigh, aud marched proudly with drums and fiaunt- 
ing though tattered banners, at the head of Sherman's splendid army in the final 
grand review at Washington. Throughout his military career, Col. Johnson had 
shown the highest military skill and capacity. His promotions came as just and 
merited reward for faithful, conscientious and brilliant service. He was commis- 
sioned captain, August 22, 1862; major, August 18, 1863; lieutenant colonel January 
9, 1864, and colonel May 2, 1865. After the fall of Savannah. Gen. Logan, com- 
manding the Fifteenth Army Corps, requested Col. Johnson to become his chief of 
staff and promised him an immediate commission from the War Department, which 
would most likely have advanced him to brigadier generalship. But Col. Johnson 
loved his noble regiment; he had led them through all those long bloody years; had 
multiplied their joys and divided their sorrows, and had, at the outset, when the 
regiment went forth in 1862 so valiant, patriotic and full of hope, promised them 
that come what might, he would always remain with them. So he told Gen. Logan 
that he could not accept his tempting offer, and the reason therefor, and was warmly 
congratulated by the General for his fidelity to the magnificent old One Hundredth 
Regiment. 

After the war, upon returning to Elkhart county. Col. Johnson soon formed 
a law partnership with Capt. A. S. Blake, and continued in the practice at Goshen, 
this State, until 1886, when he went to Santa Fe, N. M. , to serve as clerk of the 
Supreme Court and clerk of the U. S. District Court, having been thus appointed by 
the chief justice of that territory. Prior to this, in 1878, he went abroad and was 
there some three years, traveling in Germany, studying the German language, which 
he mastered, and taking lectures on law and history in the famous universitv at 
Leipsic. In 1888 he resigned his position as clerk at Santa Fe, and was thus com- 
plimented by Chief Justice E. V. Long: " Your duties as clerk have been ably and 
faithfully performed, and to my entire satisfaction, and better in my judgment than 
ever before in the territory." While clerk of the Supreme Court of New Mexico, 
the legislature, though Republican, appointed Col. Johnson reporter of the Supreme 
Court, and under that appointment he edited and published the third and fourth 
volumes of the Supreme Court Reports of that territory. Sncceediug this, he 
opened a law office in Las Vegas, N. M., and also engaged in miiun<r, but in May, 
1890, he returned to Elkhart county, and here has since resided. But let us go 
back and see something of the youth and early training of Col. Johnson, before in- 
vestigating the results of his public spirit and enterprise in Elkhart county in recent 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 25 

years. His birth occurred in Erie county, Penn., and be was one of six children born 
to the marriage of Salmon A. Johnson and Miss Minerva Powell, both of whom were 
natives of Chittenden county, Vt. At an early age he was brought by his parents 
to Indiana, and was here reared and educated. The country was new and wild then, 
and no one who did not pass through the experience can have an idea of the self- 
denial, sufferings and hardships of the first settlers. Kuel M. , by the death of his 
father, was thrown upon his own efforts at the age of twelve years, but he was ad- 
venturesome, energetic, honest and persistent, and he pushed forward. 

He worked on a farm summers, and attended school winters, continuing thus 
until he was fitted for college, whereupon he attended the University of Michigan, 
at Ann Arbor, and in 1858 graduated with high honors with his class. To pay his 
way he did anything honorable, no matter how humble, sawing wood, sweeping the 
recitation rooms of the univeisity, and during the first two years, as he himself 
says, faring upon ^'piiddincj and salt for breakfast; salt and pudding for dinner, 
and a mixture of both for supper.^' The third year he secured a position with the 
professor of astronom}' in the Detroit Observatory, and thereafter fared better. 
While in college, the question of "co-education of the sexes" came up for settle- 
ment. He took active ground in its favor, corresponding with many college presi- 
dents and other leading educators and placing their views before the regents of the 
university, and it was largely due to these efforts that the measure was finally 
adopted by that body. The women of America are greatly indebted to this mau, in 
having opened to them the doors of the University of Michigan, a step which 
gained them admission to other colleges and universities and has led the waj' to 
other and equally great advantages for them in many walks of life, and the bene- 
fits of which are immeasurably great and far-reaching. Before graduating, and 
while yet under age, he was nominated by the Democracy of Elkhart eountj' for 
county treasurer, but, though running several hundred ahead of his ticket, he was 
defeated at the polls. After graduating, he studied law under Hon. Robert Lowery, 
of Goshen, and upon admission to the bar became his preceptor's partner. Soon 
after this he went out to fight his country's battles. Col. Johnson has done a great 
work for the home seekers of Elkhart. In this connection, the following compli- 
ment is paid him by the Elkhart Rei-ieiv: 

"Satisfying himself, from the location of this beautiful and enterprising city, 
that it had a future second to no city of its population in the Northwest, he pur- 
ciiased several valuable business fronts, and being the owner of other business loca- 
tions, he started a line of improvements which has led to the investment of a large 
amount of capital which, until then, had remained comparatively idle, and as a re- 
sult he and other local capitalists have since that time added to the business por- 
tion of the city the following stately and lovely blocks: 

"The Dodge block at a probaljle cost of §30,000; the Rialto, 120,000; the Elk- 
hart block, §15,000; Truth office, §15,000; Kauflman and Crane block, §10,000; 
the Everv block, .S30,000; the Jarrett block, $20,000; the Review office, $20,000; 
the Shaw block, $15,000; the Jones block, $10,000; total, $185,000. Besides 
these really grand improvements, he has inaugurated and is pushing forward with 
his well-known enterprise a scheme for the building and furnishing of cheap homes 
to the workingmen of Elkhart, which, if taken advantage of by this class of people, 
will enable all of them, for about the sum they are and have been paying as rent, to 
house themselves and their families in homes of their own. As a part of this excellent 
plan he has laid out his Riverside addition to the city in such sized lots that all can 
there be accommodated, the poor as well as the rich, and all there find homes 
within their reach and means and upon such terms of payment that the poorest 
man may no longer hesitate to purchase for fear that he cannot pay for his home, 
and yet the rich may also there find residence property to suit his taste and meet the 
strength of his purse. Many have availed themselves of this excellent chance to 
obtain a home upon their own terms." On February 26, 1891, Col. Johnson wedded 



26 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

Miss Jeanette. daughter of Eliasand Rachel (Felkner) Gortner. He is a Democrat, 
was so 'hefore, during, and has been since the war, and was the supporter of the 
Little Giant in his memorable race for the presidency against Lincoln in 1860. He 
is a Knight Templar and thirty second degree Mason, a member of the Grand Army of 
the Republic, and military order of the Loyal Legion of the Union ofiScers of the United 
States. As a member of the L')yal Legion, he belongs to the Commaudery of the 
State of Ohio, at Cincinnati, and the Grand Commaudery of the United States, at 
Philadelphia, receiving his commission for the latter from Gen. Sheridan. Col. 
Johnson is yet a young man, and much of his future is before him. He is one of 
the most enterprising, public-spirited, honorable and conspicuous citizens of the 
State. When to his magnificent militarj- history is added his clean, able record as a 
civilian and his acknowledged worth as a man, there is presented to the world a 
good representative of model American citizenship. 

Hon. Charles G. Cokn. It is a pleasure to describe a man of unusual personal 
merit — the possessor of a combination of gifts so rare, so varied and so Comprehen- 
sive that happiness and success in business were bound to follow the application of 
his qualities to the solution of almost any problem of life. Some men were not 
made to plod or to crawl, and C. G. Conn is one of them. His diversified talents 
rendered it easy for him to select a congenial pursuit, and his perception and intel- 
ligence guaranteed that success would reward effort. But let us take the liberty of 
looking into his life to esiimine his acts and to judge his character and accomplish- 
ments. 

It is an unwritten law that the secret of success in life in all individual cases is 
the common property or heritage of all unfortunates of the human race. There are 
more followers than leaders; more imitators than originators; more of mediocre tal- 
ents than transcendent gifts, and it is but natural that people, unable to grasp suc- 
cess by their own efforts, should seek the ascent by which others have climbed to 
fame and fortune. It is therefore eminently proper for the historian or delineator 
of character to review the lives and characters of those men who have conferred so 
large a sum of joy upon mankind. 

Charles G. Conn is a native of Ontario county, N. Y. , and was born January 29, 
18-1:4. His parents were Charles J. and Sarah (Benjamin) Conn, and his grand- 
father, James Conn, the latter having been a farmer of York State and an Irishman 
by descent. The father, Charles J., was reared in New York and resided there 
until 1850, when he moved west and located at St. Joseph, Mich., then a straggling 
young town amid the forests of the Michigan peninsula. He there engaged in 
farming, but a year later removed to Elkhart, Ind., where he secured more con- 
genial employment as city school superintendent. He was well educated, possessed 
an active and discriminating mind and became renowned throughout northern Indi- 
ana as a cultured gentleman and an educator of unusual skill and high attainments. 
He followed the profession of teaching for twenty-five years and only resigned on 
account of failing hearing. For three years he taught in the La Porte city schools 
where he was also superintendent. Upon his retirement from the schoolroom he 
engaged in photography, and, at last, after a useful and reputable life, died in 1888, 
his wife having preceded him the previous year. They were the parents of two 
sons and two daughters, of whom but one son and one daughter are now living. 

The subject of this memoir was about six years old when his parents left New 
York for the great west. He was thus reared almost wholly in Indiana, and is 
therefore a "Hoosier" by adoption, if not by birth, though there is nothing to arouse 
serious apprehension in this simple statement. Once upon a time the term "Hoosier" 
was supposed to fit a phenomenal being — a sort of satyr, half man, half goat — but 
that was long ago, before the wonderful common school system of Indiana, under the 
manipulation of men like Charles G. Conn, had wrought such astonishing mental and 
social results. Under this great system and with such teachers, C. G. Conn grew 
to early manhood at Elkhart, finishing his education at the public schools of this 
town. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 27 

At this time the union of the States was crumbling to pieces. The trumpet call 
to arms aroused all patriotic men to action. Inspired with the loyalty of the hour, 
C. G. Conn, on the iSth day of May, 1861, at the age of seventeen years and against 
his parents' -wishes and protests, volunteered his services for the suppression of the rebel- 
lion, and on June 14, 1861, was mustered in as a private in Company B, Fifteenth 
Indiana Regiment. He was soon, bj^ special order, transferred to the regimental 
band. He participated in the movements and engagements at Greenbrier, W. Va. ; 
the Elkwater Valley campaign, then returned and moved with the federal army 
through Kentucky and Tennessee to Nashville; was with Buell's army, in Wood's 
division, at the second day's battle of Shiloh; was with the army in the mud at 
Corinth; was at Tuscumbia, Florence. Wartrace, McMinnville, Vervilla, and then 
again at Nashville, from which point he returned through Kentucky to Indiana for 
the purpose of re-enlisting. A fine regiment of sharpshooters was being organized 
at Jackson, Mich., and elsewhere, with rendezvous at Fort Dearborn. Detroit. He 
accordingly enlisted at Niles. Mich., January 12, 1863, in Company G. First Michi- 
gan Sharpshooters, of which he was soon made first sergeant, and was later promoted 
successively, for meritorious conduct, to second lieutenant on August 8, 1863, and a 
little later to captain of his company. When it is remembered that he was but 
nineteen years old when he re-enlisted, and but twenty when he was made captain, 
the prominence of one so young and the confidence reposed in his ability and bravery 
by bis older comrades will excite great sui-prise. But it was all merited by faithful 
and conspicuous service. He participated in the movement which drove the rebel 
guerrilla Morgan out of Indiana; assisted in guarding prisoners at Camp Douglas, 
Chicago, for about four months, and then with his command joined Buruside's corps, 
Army of the Potomac. He participated in the battle of the Wilderness, where he re- 
ceive! a slight flesh wound which did not incapacitate him from duty; was at Spott- 
sylvania. North Anna, Bethesda Church. Cold Harbor and all the bloody encounters 
around Petersburg. On the 30th of July, 1864, he was captured in an assault upon 
Petersburg, where he was slightly wounded; was thence taken "by the insolent foe" 
to Danville, Ya., and thence to Columbia, S. C. While at Goldsboro, N. C. , accom- 
panied by Lieut. Mell, of Raveuna, Ohio, he ran the gauntlet of guards and escaped, 
but was recaptured the next day by the use of bloodhounds which successfully fol- 
lowed them and revealed their hiding-place. While at Columbia. S. C, accompanied 
by Capt. Dicey and Lieut. Randall, Iwth of Michigan, another unsuccessful attempt 
was made to escape. When Sherman was moving up through the Carolinas after his 
triumphant march to the sea, the federal prisoners at Columbia were removed to 
safer quarters, but Capts. Conn and Dicey and Lieut. Randall had themselves 
buried, hoping thus to escape until Sherman's "bummers'' would arrive. But 
their hiding place was discovered by ''home guards" who were prowling around, 
probably in search of plunder, and, very much crestfallen, they were removed with 
the other unfortunates to a more secure prison. At the close of the war, after the 
most intense hardships and suflferings, he was released with thousand of other prison- 
ers and returned to Indiana, where, July 28, 1865, he was honorably discharged from 
his countr3''s service. 

He returned to Elkhart and embarked in the grocery and bakery trade and soon 
after this manifested his fondness for music. After repeated efforts he invented 
his famous " elastic face mouthpiece'' for cornets, which at once became very pop- 
ular and found a faster sale than he could manufacture them. His first lathe was 
made from a sewing machine table and with this he first attempted to do his own 
work, but orders poured in upon him so fast that he was forced to give it up and 
hire help. Rapidly his trade grew and his employes multiplied, as his inventions 
were perfected, patented and placed upon the market. At the present time he is 
the owner of about thirty patents, many of which directly affect band instruments. 
Now he employs about three-hundred persons, all told, and has an annual trade of 
$250,000. His instruments and inventions are known throughout the world. He 



28 PICTORIAL A^^D BIOGIiAI'HICAL 

was wholly burned out in 1883, but soon was as active and a8 strong as ever. In 
1SS7 be was compelled to establish a branch house in Worcester, Mass., to accom- 
modate his large eastern trade. 

Ill September, 1890, he founded the Daily and Weekly Truth, which he con- 
ducted as a Democratic organ until the spring of 18t)2, since which date it has been 
an iadej)endent j'eriodical. Col. Conn was elected mayor of Elkhart in 1880, and 
re-elected the next term. In 1884 he organized the First Regiment of Artillery, 
Indiana Legion, of which he was made captain. He was appointed major of the 
First Battalion, Third Regiment, and was later made chief of artillery on Gov. 
Gray's staff and soon after appointed colonel of the First Regiment of Artillery. 
He is familiarly known as "Colonel." He is a Knight Templar in Masonry and 
was the hrst eminent commander of the commander}' at Elkhart and was one of 
its chief organizers. He is also a Knight of Pythias and was at one time lieutenant 
colonel of the uniformed rank of that order. He belongs to the Grand Army of 
the Republic, is commander of Elmer Post at Elkhart, is president of the Veterans' 
Association and belongs also to the Loj'al Legion. He has taken an active interest 
in all public improvements of the city and county, particularly the improvement of 
the local hydraulic water power. Voluntarily he established, last year, in hi.s fac- 
tory what is known as the " profit sharing plan," by which his workmen are divided 
into classes and all made to share in just and equitable proportions. The first year 
resulted in a surplus of 89,000 being divided among the employes. This plan, he 
proclaims, produces a l)etter class of workmen, insures better work and greater 
profits and is so popular that one-half of the applicants can not be employed. 
While a member of no church organization, he is a devout believer in the Christian 
religion and a liberal contributor to church organizations. He is a Democrat and 
besides serving as mayor has served by election in the lower house of the State Leg- 
islature. In 1892 he became the candidate of the Democracy of the thirteenth dis- 
trict for congressman, and was elected b}' a large and decisive majority. Col. Conn 
married in 1867 Miss Kate Hazleton, by whom he is the father of one daughter — 
Sallie. He owns about six hundred acres of land in and adjoining the city, besides 
numerous lots, his manufacturing and newspaper interests, and is thus one of the 
wealthiest citizens of northern Indiana. True merit never fails to win. In what- 
ever field of action Col. Conn has been called, he has shown his superior qualities 
and high character. As soldier, inventor, citizen, legislator and humanitarian he 
has given the world an ornate life, well worth the emulation of youth. 

Dr. Franklin Miles has been known to the people of Elkhart since his boyhood 
and to the profession in the United States for many years, and to the citizens gen- 
erally since 1874. His early days were passed in public schools until the age of 
seventeen years, when he became a pupil in Williston Seminary, Massachusetts. 
When he left that school for Phillip's Academy, Andover, Mass., he felt that there 
was little or nothing in the course of study which he did not know. From Phillips 
he went to New Haven and entered the Sheifield Scientific School; thence to Yale 
College, Conn., and completed an extensive legal education at Columbia Col- 
lege, New York City, the leading law school of the country. The choice of a pro- 
fession often suggested itself to him during his college days. Medicine or Law was 
the question. His philosophy pointed to the first as the more useful and noble, and 
he selecteil it. 

Shortly after leaving Columbia College, he entered the University of Michigan, 
where he won the attention of medical faculty and fellow students by his close in- 
vestigations and long hours of study. His record at Rush Medical College, Chicago, 
and the Chicago JEedical College points out his determination to analyze subjects 
and understand every problem presented before casting it aside. He read some- 
where an Italian writer and remembered his advice: "Xon Hdateri al alchemista 
povero. o al medico ammalato " (Do not trust a poor alchymist or a sick physician.) 
He determined to fathom the theory and practice of medicine and succeeded. Not 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 29 

content with bis varied chase after knowledge, he is next fonnd in the State Eye and 
Ear lutirmary of IDinois, prosecuting the closest study of those delicate organs and 
reasoning for himself the dependence of each on the other and on the whole human 
system. He did not hide this acquired knowledge from the world, but gave it to the 
people in a number of papers or works prepared with great care. Among such 
works may be named " Nervous Diseases,' ' • ' The Permanent Cure of Headache with- 
out Change of Occupation," •' Heart Disease, " " Weak Eyes a Nervous Disease," 
"Diseases of the Ear," "Important Facts Concerning Headache and Other Nervous 
Diseases," "The Use of Spectacles in the Treatment of Diseases of the Brain," 
etc., etc. These treatises were not written in college days. They are the works of 
a mind trained in the .schools and subsequently subjected to the experiences of every- 
day practice; for Dr. Miles commenced the practice of his profession in Chicago, 
where he resided for some years. In 1873 he began to study the relationship be- 
tween the brain and eye and the brain and heart, and in time could trace the effect 
of the one upon the other. Understanding his subject he traced diseases to first 
causes and effected some most extraordinary cures. In 1875 he took up the subject 
of the heart with the same result and so on until it is a question if any curable eye, 
heart or nervous disease can escape cure under his treatment. 

The progress made by the medical company which bears his name is the most 
certain index to his successes in the wide field of medical practice. Prior to 1887 
his great remedies only blessed the people whose physician he was, to-day they are 
known throughout the United States and Canada. During the year named the Miles 
Medical Company was organized for the manufacture of the Doctor's new remedies. 
They became articles of commerce and were gradually introduced until their efficacy 
WHS recognized, when a great trade in them was inaugurated. The new laboratory 
at Elkhart, Ind., speaks of the advances of half a decade and tells, if anything is 
required to tell, that the remedies manufactured therein are a boon to the people. 
It is one of the great industries of Elkhart, employing a large clerical force of nearly 
one hundred persons, a number of skilled compounders or chemists. The Doctor, 
however, devotes his entire time to the treatment of difficult and complicated cases 
which come to him from all portions of the United States, in his private institute. 
Dr. Miles' sympathies are as wide as the recognition of his remedies. Everj' case 
8ul)mitted to him is conscientiously studied and ever}' patient who appears before 
him is treated by a man who knows the responsibility he takes. A patient in call- 
ing upon him seldom fails to notice that he met a professional man rather than a 
tra<iesman ; that is a physician who gives his soul to drive away disease rather than the 
one who simply seeks a fee and has no soul to give. Kind, as a good physician 
should be, his heart goes out to the afflicted. This is actual sympathy, born with him. 
It is no wonder that one molded so should seek the medical profession, for no one 
possessed of pure sympathy with humanity can use it with grander results than the 
physician. 

Hon. Robebt W. McBride. The family of which Judge McBride is a dis- 
tinguished member is of Sotch-Irish descent and came tothe United States soon after 
the Revolutionary war and previous to the war of 1812. Augustus, father of 
Robert W. , was born in Ohio and was there reared and married to Martha A. 
liarues, also a native of Ohio and of English descent, some of whose ancestors 
served as soldiers in the Revolutionary war. In the war with Mexico in 1846-7 
Augustus McBride enlisted in the Seventh United States Infantry and was in the army 
of Gen. Scott in its campaign against the city of Mexico, participating in all the as- 
saults on the various citadels guarding the national roads which led to the capital. 
After the triumphal occupation of the city by the army of Gen. Scott, and in Feb- 
ruaiy, 1848. Augustus McBride unfortunately died and now lies buried in the land 
of tlie Montezumas. He left a widow and family to mourn his untimely death and 
also left them a heritage of honor and patriotism. 

At the time of his father's death Robert W. McBride was about six years old. 



30 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

his birth having occurred in Eicbland county, Ohio, January 25, 1842. He was 
therefore too young to reah'ze his great loss or to be able to forecast the trials, 
struggles and self-denials of the future without a father's guidance and care. But 
life was real and before him and he was compelled to rely mainly on his own re- 
sources of body and mind. He attended the district school in Ohio and in Iowa 
and an academy once maintained at Kirkville, Iowa. In 1859, when in his 
eighteenth year, having passed the local examination for teachers, he applied for 
and was given the task of teaching district school in Mahaska county, Iowa, and 
was so successful that he continued to follow this occupation for three years. 

It was now 1862 and a bloody war was upon the land and all was confusion and 
uncertainty. In the autumn of this year Mr. McBride went to Mansfield, Ohio, 
where he accepted a position as clerk in the store of B. S. Runyan and remained 
tbere al>out a year. On the 27th of November, 1863, he enlisted in the " Union 
Light Guards, " an independent squadron of cavalry of picked men organized by 
Gov. David Tod and was duly mustered in at Columbus. The men composing this 
fine squadron had been selected by the county military committees throughout the 
State and Mr. McBride had been chosen to represent Richland county. Mr. Mc- 
Bride remained with the "Guards" for about six months, when he met with a 
severe accident and was permanently disabled for active service and has remained 
lame to this day. Upon his recovery from the accident he served on detached duty 
as clerk of a military commission and later at the central guard house at Washing- 
ton. In January, 1865, he was transferred to the war department and served as 
clerk under Lieut. Col. Breck in the adjutant general's office until his companj' was 
mustered out of service and honorably discharged, September, 14, 1865. Upon his 
discharge from the army he was promptly appointed to the clerkship in the office of 
the quarter-master general, but he had a higher ambition than a subordinate posi- 
tion iinder the Government, and after a service as such for two months he resigned 
and returned to Mansfield. 

While yet a boy, aged sixteen, he had taken a fancy to the study of law and 
had, as opportunity would permit, studied the principal text-books of that pro- 
fession. This study he continued while teaching and while in the service, so that 
when the war closed he had mastered the elements of law. The winter succeeding 
his return from the war he taught school in Richland County, but the next spring 
went to Waterloo, Ind., and engaged as clerk for R. M. and W. C. Lockhart. The 
next winter he again began teaching in Ohio, but before the term was over he re- 
ceived the appointment of enrolling clerk for the State senate of Indiana and 
served with credit until the legislature adjourned. In April, 1867, he was admitted 
to the bar at Auburn, DeKalb county, and the following September formed a part- 
nership for the ]iractice with Hon. J. I. Best, with whom he was associated until 
July, 1869. He became associated with Joseph L. Morlan in the practice Decem- 
ber 15, 1870, and so continued until the death of the latter in 1878, William H. Leas 
having been associated with them two years. Since 1878 Mr. McBride has carried 
on the practice alone. As a lawyer he has become distinguished throughout the 
State. Absolutely self-made, he has left no stone unturned to become a master of 
his profession. Soon after he began the practice he acquired a high reputation as 
a practitioner of unusual ability, persistence, force and adroitness, and as a result 
rose rapidly to the top of his profession and enjoyed a large practice and the un- 
bounded confidence of his fellow lawyers and the people. As an all-around lawyer 
he has probably no superior among the bar of northern Indiana. He is calm, dis- 
passionate, eloquent, and all his arguments are firmly grounded upon legal and 
equitable principles and hence he always has great weight with the court. In 1882, 
so prominent had he become and so great was the confidence of his professional 
brethren in his sound sense, legal knowledge and jaersonal honor, that he was 
elected judge of the thirty-fifth judicial circuit, comprising the counties of De Kalb, 
Steuben and Noble. When he entered upon the discharge of his judicial duties 



MEMOIRS OP INDIANA. 31 

the Itu^iuess of the district, owing to the ill health of his predecessor, was two 
years behind and in a chaotic condition; but in a little more than a year, so hard 
did he work, the docket was cleared and so remained until the end of his term. 
His decisions were noted for their fidelity to just principles and law and few were 
ever reversed by the Supreme Court — never a criminal case. No other circuit 
judge of the State was more prompt in the discharge of his duties than Judge Mc- 
Bride. 

In 1890 he removed to Elkhart and the same fall was a candidate on the Repub- 
lican State ticket for judge of the Supreme Court, but went down with the entire Re- 
publican ticket in defeat. On December 17, 1890, he was appointed judge of the 
Supreme Coiirt by Gov. Hovey to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Judge 
Mitchell. He is a member of the board of trustees of Depauw University and as- 
sisted inorganizing the National Guard of the State and was the first lieutenant colonel 
of the Third Regiment of Infantry and is second colonel. He is a Thirty-second de- 
gree Mason, past eminent commander of Apollo Commandery No. 19, at Kendall- 
yille, a member of the Committee on Grievances and Appeals in the Grand Lodge, 
a member of the State Encampment of the G. A. R. and a member of the Grand 
Lodge of I. O. O. F., K. of P., and the A. O. U. W. He is an enthusiastic student 
of the natural sciences and is one of the best, if not the best, ornithologist and botan- 
ist in northern Indiana, having pursued these studies as a recreation. He is also, 
and has been for more than twenty years, an active member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. 

On September 27, 1868, he was united in marriage to Miss Ida S., daughter of 
Dr. Chamberlain, of Waterloo, Ind., a lady of rare personal accomplishments, 
by whom he has four children: Daisy I., born September 25, 1869; Charles H. , 
born November 10, 1871; Herbert W., born October 5, 1873, and Martha C, born 
February 13, 1876. No family in the State stands higher, socially or neighborly, 
and no citizen is held in deeper respect than Judge McBride. Mrs. McBride is at 
this time (1892) Department President of the Woman's Relief Corps Auxiliary to 
the Grand Army of the Republic. 

Hon. George T. Barney, attorney at law and general insurance agent, was born 
April 10, 1822, at Willsboro, Essex County, N. Y. , and is the oldest of four living 
children in a family of thirteen born to the marriage of Samuel Barney and Abagail 
Adsit. The father was a native of Whitehall, N. Y., and the mother of Willsboro, 
N. Y. , their respective births occurring March 14, 1792, and August 3, 1798. Samuel 
Barney was also the name of George T. Barney's grandfather, and he, with his 
three brothers, Solomon, Charles and William, immigrated from Ireland to the colonies 
of America some years prior to the Revolutionary war. Solomon was the eldest 
of these brothers, at that time being about twenty years old, and all their immeiliate 
relatives being dead he determined, with his brothers, to seek home and fortune in 
the new world. They settled at Salisbury, Vt., induced to do so by old neighbors 
having previously crossed the Atlantic and were there doing well, and having been 
reared in an iron district the brothers engaged in that industr3^ 

All the Barneys in this country are said to be the direct descendants of these four 
brothers. Samuel Barney, Jr., the father of the Barneys of Elkhart, was a mag- 
nificent specimen of physical manhood and was a "bloomer," or now known as an 
ironmaker, by trade. Taking great pride in his work he became an exjiert and 
commanded much higher wages than his fellow workmen. He was a soldier in the 
war of 1812, and the last twenty years of his life lived at Birmingham, Ohio. 

George T. Barney, when ten years of age, moved with his parents to Ohio, and 
in youth secured only the limited education of the common schools. When fourteen 
years old he began life's battles upon his own responsibility, and from that timeuntil 
attaining man's estate was engaged in carpentering, joining, coopering and kindred 
pursuits. In 1847 he moved to Kalamazoo, Mich., where, about two years later, he 
was elected constable. Succeeding this he received the appointment of Deputy 



32 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Uaited States Marshal, aiul, still later, Government timber agent for the northern 
district of Michigan. JaiiiKiry 15. 1852, he married and moved to Marquette, and 
at tbo close of his term was appointed sheriff, and later was twice elected to 
that position, serving in all tive years. He was then elected city recorder, in 
reality police judge, which he resigned in 1862 to recruit troops to put down 
the rebellion. Having served eighteen montbs in Company E, Fourth Ohio Infan- 
try during the war with Mexico, he was called upon to raise a company. This he 
did for the First Michigan Infantry and was elected captain; but owing to defective 
health his services were not accepted by the Goverumeut. In 1863 he moved to 
Ligoiiier, Ind. .where, with his brothers, he embarked in merchandising, continuing 
the study of law which he had begun in Michigan and wliere, while at Marquette, he 
had been admitted to the bar. In IStiT he removed to Elkhart, began the practice 
of law in conjunction with writing iusurance, at which he has acquired a competency 
and at which he is still engaged. Mr. Barney is a Knight Templar Mason, an Eu- 
campiuent Degree Odd Fellow, and was Grand Secretary of Grand Encampment of 
I. O. O. F. of Michigan. He is a Democrat, and besides having been elected to rep- 
resent Elkhart county in the lower house of the State Legislature, was elected and 
served six years as city judge of Elkhart. To his marriage with Mary A. Munsell, 
one son — George E. — has been born. Both Mr. and Mrs. Barney are members of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

S.«iUEL E. B-\RNET, manager of the American Mutual Life Insurance Company, 
is justly recognized as one of Elkhart's foremost citizens. A native of Birming- 
ham, Erie Co., Ohio, his birth occurred December 16, 1833, being the youngest of 
thirteen children, four yet living, born to the marriage of Samuel Barney and Abi- 
gail Adsit, appropriate reference to whom is made in the biography of his brother, 
Hon. George T. Barney, which appears above in this volume. His youth and 
early manhood were passed in the county of his birth, during which time he was en- 
abled to secure the rudiments of a fair practical education from the common schools, 
and in working at the various callings which seemed most remunerative, chietly at 
farming, in a woolen mill and at cabinet making. When about eighteen years old 
he began teaching school and continued this interruptedly tive terms, when he lie- 
came a clerk at Defiance, Ohio, and later bookkeeper for a merchant at Napoleon. In 
order to better equip himself for business he took a course of instruction at a com- 
mercial college in Cincinnati, and then, with the expectation of learning teleg- 
raphy, started for St. Louis. While en route on an Ohio River steamer he met and 
formed the acquaintance of Maj. Gen. Rawlings, of Mound City. 111., and one of 
the well-known men of the State. Imagining that Mound City was a place of con- 
siderable importance, through the representation of Gen. Rawlings, he was induced 
to abandon his St. Louis expedition in order to identify himself in business at this 
place: but instead of a city, or even a thrifty village, he found one large store 
owned by Gen. Rawlings and but little else. The prospect for a town was so good that 
young Barney determined to give it a trial as a home, especially as he was offered a 
p >sitionof clerk and private secretary for Gen. Rawlings, who. although a man of much 
natural ability and doing an immense business, was possessed of but little or no educa- 
tion. The place grew rapidly in importance, and besides tilling his position with satis- 
faction, Mr. Barney was elected city clerk, superintendent of a branch railway and was 
appointed assistant postmaster. After remaining with Gen. Rawlings over two years, 
he associated himself as a partner in the dry goods trade upon his own responsibility, 
but after three years' residence in Mound City sold his interest and in the winter of 1858 
embarked in mercantile pursuits at Green Springs, Ohio. Three years later he 
moved to Ligonier, Ind., where he was engaged in merchandising five years. In 
January, 1867, he came to Elkhart, which has ever since been his home. He was 
one of the organizers and is the present treasurer and manager of the American 
Mutual Life Insurance Company of Elkhart, which under his wise management 
has assumed a prominence in insurance circles that reflects much credit on Mr. 



MEMOins OF IXDIANA. 33 

Barney and upon the city. lu bis diversified business career there is one important 
item worthy of mention and of which the public is not aware. During the earlier 
years of Mr. Barney's manhood the country was flooded with "wildcat '' and coun- 
terfeit money and proved a source of great annoyance and loss to merchants. Just 
as the poet or singer inherits the gift of their calling, and without being able to 
explain the reason why, just so Mr. Barney inherited the gift of detecting spurious 
currency, no matter how perfect the counterfeit, at sight. This gift was turned by 
him to practical use on more than one occasion, and he justly became authority on 
good and bad money. Although a Democrat in politics, Mr. Barney has never 
aspired to political preferment. He is slow to decide upon questions presented to 
him, but when once his position is taken it requires proof of the most positive char- 
acter to change his views. So stanch is he that many have unjustly attributed to 
liim the term of '"crank," wlien the exact reverse is the truth. ^Vhile a believer in 
the princi[)les of tlje Democratic party, he votes for men regardless of party affilia- 
tions in local affairs. Mr. Barney is a Mason and one of the city's prosperous busi- 
ue.ss men. On the last day of December, 1863. Agnes E. , eldest daughter of Rev. 
Joseph Adderly, of Mishawaka, became his wife and to this union these children 
have been born: Ernest Adderly, who died when seventeen months old; Richard 
Carlyle; Wade Hampton; Hugh Comyn (the original manner of spelling the family 
name of Cummings) and Terrence LeRoy. 

Robert Owen, born at Newton, Montgomeryshire, England, in 1771, married a 
Miss Dale, daughter of David Dale, in ISO], and died at the place of his birth No- 
vember 19, 1858. Although receiving but a limited education he was a great 
reider, became a deep thinker ami obtained renown as the great social reformer of 
the day. His early career was passed in commercial pursuits, and at eighteen 
was a stock owner in a manufacturing establishment; later he became owner 
of a large cotton factory at New Lanark, Scotland, where he introduced a sys- 
tem of reform which was not only successful at the time but became highly 
popular. Becoming an author of considerable note on his favorite topic, he pub- 
lished, in 1812, his "'New Views of Society; or, Essays Upon the Formation 
of Human Character," and later a work entitled ''Book of the New Moral World." 
Throughout these writings he advocated modified communism, absolute equality in 
all rights and duties and the abolition of all superiority, even that of capital and 
intelligence. His immense wealth and peculiar doctrines attracted numerous fol- 
lowers. In 1823, at his own expense, he purchased from the society of Harmonists, 
in Posey county, Ind., their possessions for 1150,000, and peopling the district with 
his followers endeavored to make practical the views he held. The effort was an ab- 
solute failure. In 1827 he returned to Europe and at different places in Great Britain 
again atternpted the establishment of communistic societies, with a similar result as 
that attained in the United States. In 1828, upon invitation from the Mexican 
Government, he resumed hi^ efforts upon Mexican soil, but the result was failure as 
previously. He l)rauched off into journalism and as a lecturer, at both of which he 
attained distinction because of the earnestness and intelligence with which he advo- 
cated his remarkable views. During his last years he became a believer in spiritu- 
alism and was a firm advocate of the precepts of that belief. 

George M. Bird is a dealer in coal, wood, lime, cement, salt, seeds and feed 
at tlie corner of Pigeon and Main streets, Elkhart, Ind., is conducting a business 
that has commended itself to the approval of the public for a number of years 
j)ast. He is full of business life and energy and is trustworthy to a fault. He is 
a pro<luct of Clayton, Lenaway Co., Mich., where he first saw the light on the 2d 
of December, 185(1, being one of four children born to the marriage of Reuljen E. 
Bird and Caroline Canniff, the former a native of tlip Green Mountain State and the 
latter of New York. The fatlier was a farmer and merchant by occu[)atiou. and in 
an early day emigrated to Michigan and was the founder of the town of Clayton. 
wheri> he died. His widow now resides in the only house now standing in the town 

3 



34 PICTORIAL AND /HOGUAPIIIUAL 

that was built wheu Mr. Bird first settled here. The surviving members of the 
family are: Chauncey N., George M., Lydia E. and John E. Three children are 
deceased. In the town of Clayton the boyhood days of George M. Bird were spent 
and there his education was obtained. When a mere youth he began traveling as a 
salesman and for a period of twenty years he was on the road, during which time he 
saw a great deal of the country and gained a wide and thoroughly practical experi- 
ence in the business affairs of life. At various times during his career he was in 
the employ of the following houses: C. K. Hawley, of Cleveland, Ohio; M. L. 
Hull, of Cleveland; Selling Bros., of Detroit, Mich.; May Bros., of Kock Island, 
111., with whom he remained nine years and for five years was with Burley & Terrill, 
of Chicago. After leaving the road he came to Elkhart and engaged in his present 
business, in which he has been remarkably successful, owing to the fact that he is 
prompt in filling orders, strictly honorable in every transaction and a genial and 
decidedly agreeable companion. His business increased so rapidly that he had to 
extend his premises, which kept him very busy in supplying the wants of his numer- 
ous patrons. He gives constant employment to a large force of men and has a 
number of teams that are kept constantly busy in delivering his goods to all parts 
of the city. Mr. Bird is well known in the business circles of the place, is rated 
high commercially and is esteemed as a public-spirited citizen. He is a Knight 
Templar in the A. F. and A. M. and is recorder of his lodge. In 1882 Miss Mollie 
Lyon, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, became his wife and their union has resulted in the 
birth of the following named children: Reuben A., aged eight years; Onlee M., 
aged three years, and Harrold C, aged one year. 

William D. Middleton, proprietor of the Elkhart Business College and Short- 
hand and Typewriting Institute, has been very successful in his chosen field of labor, 
for he has administrative capacity of a high order, is full of expedients and his 
mind is always on his work and his heart in it. The school over which he presides 
is never allowed to stagnate or to become disorderh', and as he possesses a genial 
and kindly disposition there are few among either pupils or associates who do not 
esteem him as a friend. He was born in St. Joseph county, Ind., near South Bend, 
December 23, 1843, a son of William and Rebecca (Gillam) Middleton, who emi- 
grated from Ohio and located in St. Joseph county, Ind., during the early history 
of that section, being among its pioneers. The father was a farmer and carpenter, 
but he and the mother have for a number of years been deceased. William D. 
Middleton was the fifth of the seven children born to them, and obtained his educa- 
tion in the schools of Warren and Marion counties, Iowa, and in Bryant & Stratton's 
Business College of Indianapolis, Ind. On the 20th of June, 1862, he enlisted in 
Company G, Eighteenth Iowa Infantry, but owing to a severe spell of typhoid 
fever he was unfitted for further duty and was discharged from the service February 
28, 1863. After his recovery he joined Company K of the Ninth Michigan Cavalry, 
enlisting April 1, 1863, with which regiment he served until the war closed. In the 
siege of Atlanta he was captured and taken to Audersonville prison, in which and 
other prisons he was confined for a period of seven months. He remained in cap- 
tivity until the war closed and suffered all the privations and hardships which were 
the lot of those confined in that foul pen.- He was in twenty-six pitched battles, 
but fortunately was never wounded. He returned home with the rank of first ser- 
geant and at once began learning the mason's trade, at which calling he worked 
during the summer and devoted his attention to teaching school during the winter 
months for several years. Owing to failing health he was compelled to abandon 
manual labor and turned his attention solely to teaching, for which calling he had 
always had a liking and natural aptitude. The professor has called Elkhart his 
home for forty-three years and during this time he has been one of its most sub- 
stantial and enterprising citizens. In 1887 he established his present school, and 
public education in Indiana has no more earnest advocate and co-operator than he. 
No one more thoroughly understands its needs and interests, and perhaps no one is 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAJS^A. 35 

better qualified, through long experience and loving labor in its behalf, to bring it 
to that high state of perfection which its present rapid advancement assures. His 
school is carried on throughout the entire year and is recognized as one of the lead- 
ing business colleges in the country, for he has many pupils from Chicago and 
Indianapolis, as well as from all parts of the country. He is a member of the G. 
A. R. and Knights of Pythia-. On the 25th of March, 1866, he was married to Mrs. 
Isabella Morgan, of Branch county. Mich., by whom he has had three sons and five 
daughters. 

Da. J. F. Harris is a skillful and well-known veterinary surgeon of Elkhart, Ind., 
who has attained to much skill in his calling and has won a reputation that is by no 
means undeserved. By years of patient study he has become thoroughly posted in 
all the branches of his profession and has found it not only profitable but also 
pleasing. He was born in Huron county, Ohio. August 26, 1836, to Andrew E. and 
Elizabeth (Laughlin) Harris, natives of York State and Pennsylvania respectively. 
The family came from the New England States, having originally come from Old Eng- 
land and were early settlers of this country. The paternal grandfather, Zurile W. Har- 
ris, was a soldierin the Revolutionary war, in which struggle the maternal grandfather, 
William Laughlin, also took part, and in the war of 1812 became an officer. In the 
history of the United States mention will be found of this colonel, his great uncle, Will- 
iam B. Matherson, who was colonel in the Mexican war. The Harris family were 
among the pioneer settlers of Ohio and in the county of Huron Zurile W. Harris 
carried on farming and the cooperage business quite extensively. He died in Seneca 
county, Ohio. The maternal grandfather settled in Pennsylvania and also tilled the 
soil, but subsequentlj' removed to Richland county, Ohio, where he died. Andrew 
R. Harris was a cooper and farmer, which occupations he followed in Porter county, 
Ind. , near Valparaiso, in the vicinity of which place he resided until his death. He 
and his wife became the parents of six sons and four daughters, of which family 
five members are now living: Dr. Joseph P. ; Washington R. , who served in the Ninety- 
ninth Indiana Infantry, and was wounded in battle; VanBuren, who died in the late 
war, having held the rank of orderly sergeant; LaFayette (deceased) served one 
year in the civil war; Mary, Eliza J., Ella (deceased), Josephine, William (de- 
ceased), and Jackson (deceased). Dr. Joseph F. Harris, the subject of this biog- 
raphy, was principally reared in Richland and Wyandotte counties, Ohio, and re- 
ceived his education in both public and private schools. His spare moments were 
spent in wielding the hoe and following the plow on his father's farm, and while so 
doing he not only learned what hard work meant, but he also learned lessons of in- 
dustry, honesty and perseverance which have since Ijeen of material benefit to him 
in his walk through life. From his youth he has been a lover of horses, and after 
deciding to devote his time and attention to curing the ills horseflesh is heir 
to, he began working at the profession under Dr. Levi A. Cass, of Porter county, 
at Horse Prairie, nine miles southwest of Valparaiso. He also studied medicine for 
three years, but never practiced only in his own family. He has stiidied the horse 
patiently and perseveringly, and in his treatment of that noble animal has been uni- 
versally successful. In 1886 he came to Elkhart, Ind., of which city he has since 
been a resident, where he has built up a practice, although large, is constantly on 
the increase. In 1859 he was married in St. Joseph county, Ind., to Miss Rachel 
H. Paddock, by whom he has ten children: Albert A., Franklin, Sarah E., wife of 
William Riley, of Valparaiso; John, DeWain. Emery, James, Mary, Rel)ecca H. and 
Edward. The Doctor has never had a physician in his house except on two occa- 
sioas, when one of his sons had a leg broken and the other received a gun-shot 
wound through the stomach. The family are hale and hearty. Dr. Harris has two 
uncles (doctors) by the name of Cornelius and Milo Blachley. Blachley's Mill, 
Wayne Co., Ohio, is named after the doctors, also Blachley Corners, of Porter 
Co., Ind., where thej- lived fifty years and practiced medicine. Both are deceased. 
Dr. Cornelius carried on farming and owned a carding mill, grist-mill and saw-mill 



36 PICTORIAL AND BIOQRAPIIIGAL 

on Salt Creek in Poiter county, Inci, at the lime of Lis death. He raised eight 
children, four sons and four daughters. One sou, Napoleon B. Blachley.was shot in 
the "Union army. Col. Dewitt Hodgton, his brother-in-law, was shot dead on the 
battlefield in the Union army. Three of the Blachleys married three sisters of the sub- 
ject's mother — two doctors and one farmer and carding-mill owner by trade. 

Andrew Stephens, funeral director and undertaker, Elkhart, Ind. The business 
in which this well-known gentleman is engaged is a very important one to society, 
and among its essential requirements it is important that its representatives shall be 
sympathetic, experienced and reliable. The business has been in successful opera- 
tion since 1854 and the establishment is well equipped with all articles pertaining to 
this line of business, and everything for the plainest or most imposing funerals can 
be readily furnished. Mr. Stephetis is prompt in meeting his engagements, per- 
forms his duties with accuracy and propriety and he can always be depended on in 
matters pertaining to the last rites of burial. Mr. Stephens was born in Dauphin 
county, Penu., May 29, 1832, a son of Andrew and Mary (Braden) Stephens, also 
natives of the Keystone State, and of English and Irish lineage. The father died 
in January, 1832, having been a farmer throughout life and a soldier in the war of 
1812. He had four sons and one daughter, of whom the subject of this sketch is the 
youngest. He remained in his native county until twenty years of age and, like a 
dutiful son, assist^-d his mother on the home farm and also at the trade of carpenter 
and joiner. In 1852 he moved with his mother westward and for three months was 
a resident of Steuben county, Ind., at the end of which time he came on to Elkhart 
county, and here Mr. Stephens began working at his trade, which he followed for 
two or three years, embarking in his present business in the spring of 1854. The 
firm was. at first known as B. F. & A. Stephens, and continued such for about twenty- 
two years; then for three years was simply A. Stephens, and is now Stephens & Son. 
Mr. Stephens is one of the oldest business men of the city and during his long con- 
nection with mercantile interest has been honorable and upright in every respect 
and has made many friends by his straightforward course through life. At the 
time of his settlement the town was but a small hamlet of three or foiir hundred 
population, and almost the entire growth of the town and county has been witnessed 
by Mr. Stephens. He is a member of the Indiana State Undertakers' Association and 
Chosen Friends. In the early days of Elkhart he was a town trustee. He was mar- 
ried in 1860 to Miss Frances E. Hall, by whom he has four children: Lillie, Luella, 
Henry E. and Charlie A. He and his family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
of which he is a member. 

Perrt L. Tdenek. Of the younger element of our prominent, energetic and in- 
fluential citizens, none are lietter known than Mr. Perry L. Turner, one of the dis- 
tinguished attorneys of Elkhart. During the years he has practiced his profession 
here he has shown himself to be endowed with superior ability, and his comprehen 
sive knowledge of the law, together with the soundness of his judgment, secured him 
almost immediate recognition at the bar. Since that time to the present he has so 
identified himself with the affairs of the place that its history can not be recorded with- 
out according him a conspicuous and honorable part. Mr. Turner is now acting as 
United States Commissioner, by appointment from the Hon. William A. "Woods; is at 
present the efficient and popularattorney of the city of Elkhart and a member of the law 
firm of Chamberlain & Turner, both men of high moral character who are universally 
respected and esteemed. Mr. Turner is a native of the city of Elkhart, born in 
Osolo township, October 27, 1860, and is a son of Lyman and Tamar ("Wilkinson) 
Turner, both of whom came to this country as early as 1849 and were here married. 
They became the parents of five children, one only, besides our subject, now living — 
Dr. Porter Turner. The father died October 19, 1888; the mother is still living. 
Our subject passed his youthful days in assisting his father on the farm, and su]iple- 
nienteda common-school education by graduating from the high schools of Elkhart. 
Following this he took a select literary course at the University of Chicago and Val- 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIANA. 37 

paraiso College. On the 20th of May, 1882, be began the study of law with Gapt. O. 
T. Chamberlain and was admitted to the bar in 1884, forming a partnership with his 
present associate in 1886. He was elected city attorney in 1884 and has held the 
office continuously ever since. During the eight years he has held this office, he 
has 80 well acquainted himself with every branch and question of municipal law 
that he was well able to perform the duties of his office. In that capacity he has 
performed honorable and efficient services, and so satisfactorily has he discharged 
his duties that high esteem has been placed upon his efforts. He has already at- 
tained a high standing in the legal fraternity and his reputation and record are first- 
class for integrity and trustworthiness in all matters enti-usted to him. In him the 
community has a faithful and unswerving friend, ever alert to serve its best interest 
and generous in his contributions toward every movement tending to the general 
advancement. If he should so desire, the future holds for him political honors, and 
no one would bear them with more becoming grace or better reflect their lustre. He 
was married on the 7th of January, 1886, to Miss Mamie E. Wright, daughter of 
Henry C. Wright, a prominent citizen of Elkhart and ex-mayor of the city. Mr. and 
Mrs. Turner are members of the Episcopal Church and are universally respected. 
Although one of the youngest attorneys at the bar of Elkhart, Mr. Turner stands at 
the head of his profession, and in whatever positions of trust he has been placed he 
has performed honorable and efficient service, and is entitled, with others, to feel a 
pride and satisfaction over the result of eiforts and labors that have culminated in 
the glorious Elkhart of to-day. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, I. O. O. 
F. and K. of P. 

James H. State, of the law firm of State & Chamberlin, Elkhart, Ind.,was born at 
Lorin, Lewis county, N. Y., May 4, 1855. His parents, John and Theresa (Kiley) 
State, natives of Ireland, came to the United States and settled in that territory, now 
known as Adirondack county. In 1870 the family removed to Elkhart county from 
Madison, Ohio, where they located about 1S61, the father dying in Elkhart, June 
23, 1892. James H. and his sister Lizzie, their two children, were educated at Madi- 
son. On coming to Elkhart, the former entered the office of the Review, holding 
a position there until 1875, when he began the study of law in the office of Hon. M. 
F. Shuey. Later he studied in the office of Judge Van Fleet for one year and was 
admitted to the bar in 1877. Beginning practice immediately, the young lawyer 
enjoyed more than the ordinary success of young men in the profession. In 1879 
the partnership with Mr. Chamberlin was formed, and this partnership is to-day 
the oldest in the city. Fourteen years of practice in a larger city than Elkhart will 
always influence the public mind, and in the case of this firm such influence has 
been a most beneficent character. On May 4, 1876, Mr. State was elected city 
clerk. He was twenty-two years old that day, and this was the manner in which a 
majority of the citizens observed hi.s birthday. In 1878 he was re-elected and served 
for eight years as prosecuting attorney for the city. 

His marriage with Miss Kate Snyder of Elkhart was celebrated in 1877. They 
are the parents of one child. Margie. Mr. State is a Master Mason, a member of 
the National Union of the Royal Arcanum, and of other benevolent associations. He is 
the attorney for the Elkhart Water Company, and a member of that corporation. It 
is said that he is the most brilliant of the young lawyers of Elkhart county; while in 
addition to his shrewdness and ability as a lawyer he possesses the gift of oratory 
in a marked degree. 

Gen. W. W. Dudley, a man gifted with more than the average degree of intel- 
ligence and shrewdness, and as gallant a soldier as ever wore shoulder straps, is a 
native of the Green Mountain State, his birth occurring August 27, 1842, in Wind- 
sor county. He completed his education with a course at Russell's CoUegiate and 
Commercial Institute, at New Haven, Conn., which also gave him an excellent mil- 
itary training. Coming to Indiana in 1860, he embarked in milling, but early in 
1861 enlisted for the war and was elected captain of a company in the Nineteenth 



38 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Regiment of Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He was promoted, from time to time, to 
the colonelcy of his regiment, and for gallant and meritorious services at the battle 
of Gettysburg was breveted brigadier general. Having previously participated in 
some of the most hotly contested engagements of the war, his military career ended 
at Gettysburg, where his regiment lost nearly three-fourths of its number on the 
first day, and where Col. Dudley was so severely wounded in the right leg as to ne- 
cessitate amputation. From the effects of this wound he remained unfit for any 
active work for nearly a year, and from the effects of which he is yet a sufferer. In 
1866 and again in 1870 he was elected clerk of the Circuit Court of Wayne 
county, was cashier of the 'Richmond Savings Bank for a time, and from which he 
resigned to accept the appointment of United States Marshal for the district of In- 
diana. Col. Dudley is one of the most prominent Republicans in the State of Indi- 
ana, and through his superior management the State was kept Republican and cast 
its electoral vote for President Harrison in 1888. Col. Dudley is an Odd Fellow, 
a Free Mason, a member of the Protestant Episcopal Church, and by his marriage 
with Miss Theresa Fiske is the father of seven children. 

Benjamin F. Stephens, attorney at law, real estate dealer and insurance agent of 
Elkhart, Ind., has his office at 31 7^ Main street, and in every branch of his business 
i.s meeting with marked success. He has a decided veneration for the law, and this, 
combined with the accuracy of his legal knowledge, lucidity of statement and felicity 
of illustration has given him the confidence of all his patrons. He was born in 
Dauphin county, Pa., Jan. 17, 1831, to Andrew and Mary (Braden) Stephens, who 
were natives of the State of Pennsylvania and of Scotch-Irish descent. The father 
was an active participant in the war of 1812, and died in Dauphin county, Pa., in 
1832, having been a farmer throughout life. He left a widow and six children to 
mourn their loss, and in the spring of 1852 they turned their footsteps westward and 
eventually settled in Elkhart, Ind., where the mother was called from this life in 
the spring of 1855. B. F. Stephens was only one year old at the death of his 
father, and owing to this fact his childhood and early manhood was one long struggle 
with poverty. He lived on a farm until seventeen years of age, attending school dur- 
ing the winter months; then went to Harrisburg, Pa. , and began serving an appren- 
ticeship at the cabinetmaker's trade, which he completed and then came west with 
his mother and brothers and sister, and for a few months worked at his trade in 
Elkhart. In the fall of 1852 he and his brother opened a furniture and under- 
taker's establishment of their own, subsequenth' added hardware to their stock, 
and carried on their business with marked success until 1877, when he sold out to 
his brother Andrew, who still conducts an undertaking business. Succeeding this, 
Mr. Stephens engaged in general ofiice business, settling decedents' estates, etc., 
and reading law, which always possessed considerable charm for him, and in Janu- 
ary, 1892, he was admitted to the bar of Elkbart county. He makes a specialty of 
loaning money, drawing up deeds, mortgages, etc., and is doing a thriving busi- 
ness, and one which is congenial to his tastes. He has served as township trustee 
two years, four years president of the board of town trustees before it was incorpor- 
ated as a city, and for six years was a member of the school board, of which he was 
treasurer and secretary. He is a member of the Scotch-Irish Society of America, is 
a member of and an earnest worker in the Methodist Episcopal Church, having 
united with the church March, 1853, and for a number of years was superintendent 
of the Sabbath-school, and held various other church offices. He is a member of the 
board of directors and president of the R. R. Y. M. C. A., and there is no organ- 
ized movement in the city for the alleviation of suffering, for help and succor to 
earth's unfortunates, which does not receive his warm, strong sympathy and efficient 
aid. He has been a delegate of the Y. M. C. A. to the international conventions held 
atMilwaukee, Atlanta, Ga., San Francisco, Philadelphia, Kansas City, and tothe sec- 
retary's conference at Chattanooga, Tenn., Harrisburg, Pa., and Oakland, Cal. His 
son, H. E. Stephens, is connected with him in business, and the firm is known as 



MEMOIHS OF INDIANA. 39 

Stephens & Stephens. They are prosperous, wide-awake and intelligent men of 
affairs, as the success which has attended their efforts would indicate. On the 4th 
day of March, 185S, Mr. Stephens was married to Miss Euphemia Martin, a native of 
New York State, and of two children born to them only one is now living — Herrick 
E. Although Mr. Stephens' early life was marked by many hardships, his early self- 
denials taught hi ui to be self-reliant, prudent and economical, and these attributes 
have since been of great benefit to him. His friends believe in '"honor to whom 
honor is due," and at all times pay him unbounded respect, the outcome of his cor- 
rect mode of living. 

Dr. William A. Neal is a medical practitioner of more than local renown, which 
fact may be in a measure attributed to his love for his profession, and to him the 
arduous duties of his calling is a "labor of love." Whatever the social or financial con- 
dition of the patient who seeks his service, no effort is spared in the treatment of 
his case, for he believes it the highest duty of the physician to cure the ills to which 
mankind is heir if it lies within his power to do so. He devotes himself to his work 
with conscientious zeal, and gives little regard to the rewards or emoluments that are 
to follow. He believes in a progressive system of medicine, and notes with eager 
interest every progressive step taken by his profession. He was born in the city of 
Elkhart, Ind. , January 29, 1836, to Henry and Rebecca (Kiblinger) Neal, who were 
born in Maryland and Qhio, and were of Welsh and French-German descent, 
respectively. The paternal grandfather came from Wales and settled near Hagers- 
town, Md., where he was engaged in farming. About 1858 he located with his 
family in Elkhart county, Ind., and here his declining years were spent. Henry 
Neal became a resident of the town of Elkhart in 1835, at which time the population 
did not exceed 200, and here he opened a harness shop, the first one in the town, 
which he successfully conducted until his health became so impaired that he gave it 
up and retired to private life. He died in 1883, in his seventy-sixth year, his wife 
having been called from life in 1841. They were the parents of two children: Dr. 
AVilliam A. Neal and Mrs. Russ Davis, of Elkhart. Dr. Neal resided in Elkhart 
until about eighteen years of age, during which time he attended the public schools 
and obtained a good practical education. He then went to La Fayette, Ind., to 
pursue his medical studies with Dr. Jewett, with whom he remained some time, 
after which he entered Rush Medical College of Chicago, which well-known institu- 
tion he attended in 1856 and 1857. His first work as a practitioner of the healing 
art was done at New London, Iowa, in the spring of 1857, and there he continued 
to remain until October, 1861, when the strained relations between the North and 
South culminated in war, and Dr. Neal enlisted as assistant surgeon in the First 
Missouri Engineers, and served as such until the close of the war in 1865. He held 
the rank of captain, and was on field duty the most of his service, being post surgeon 
at Johnsonville, Teun., in the spring and summer of 1864. He was with Gen. 
Sherman on his famous march to the sea, and was mustered out at St. Louis, Mo., 
July 28, 1865, after which he located for the practice of medicine at Dayton, Mich., 
which place continued to be his home until November, 1879, since which date Elk- 
hart, Ind., has been his home and the scene of his labors. He is the author of the 
"Illustrated History of the Missouri Engineer and the Twenty-fifth Infantry 
Regiments," which was published in 1889, and is a finely illustrated and authentic 
work of 320 pages. Dr. Neal is secretary of the Elkhart City Medical Society, 
secretary of the Elkhart County Medical Society, a member of the Indiana State 
Medical Society, and of the American Medical Association. In the practice of his 
profession he has been skillful and successful, and his face is a familiar one in many 
homes in Elkhart county. He is sympathetic and kindly in disposition, and as a 
natural consequence many trusts are committed to his care. Socially he is a mem- 
ber of the Royal Arch Masons, the G. A. R. and the Loyal Legion. He is a Republi- 
can politically, and always adheres strictly to the principles of his party. In May, 
1857, he was married to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Rev. E. H. Lamb, and their 



40 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

imion bas resulted in the birth of four children: Eva (Mrs. Sawyer of Michigan); 
Harry, and two sons who are deceased. Mrs. Neal is a member of the Congregational 
Church. Faithful and just in the conduct of his business, Dr. Neal is also skillful 
and efficient in the practice of medicine, and is without reproach in any of the affairs 
of life. As a citizen, he has interested himself in the upbuilding of the commnnity, 
and has given generously of his time, labor and means to promote its advancement, 
and support and build up its institutions. 

Hon. William H. English, nominee of the Democratic party for vice-president 
of the United States in 1880, and the founder and for nearly a score of years presi- 
dent of the First National Bank of Indianapolis, was born in the village of Lexing- 
ton, Scott county. Ind. , August 27, 1822, being the son of Maj. Elisha G. and 
Mahala (Eastiu) English, and grandson of Elisha and Sarah (Wharton) English. 
His education was such as the common schools of the neighborhood afforded, and a 
course of three years at South Hanover College. He chose law as his calling, and 
after a course of reading was admitted to practice in the circuit court at eighteen 
years of age; was later admitted to practice in the State supreme court, and in his 
twenty-third year was licensed to prosecute his profession in the supreme court of 
the United States. He practiced his profession for a time, but drifted into politics, 
and after filling several local positions of trust was chosen principal clerk of the 
Indiana House of Representatives in 1843 over numerous worthy competitors. In 
1850, after having served as clerk in the Treasury Department at Washington, he 
was selected clerk of the Claims Committee in the United States Senate, and after 
the session resigned and returned to his home in Indiana. In 1851 he was elected 
to represent his native county in the State legislature, and at this session, owing to 
the resignation of Mr. Davis, who was the presiding officer of the House, Mr. Eng- 
lish was elected speaker to fill the vacancy. In 1852 he was nominated and elected 
to C )ngress from his district, re elected in 1854, was again elected in 1856 against 
his earnest protests, and again re-elected in 1858. During his Congressional career 
he was the author of some of the most notable bills of the day and acquired a na- 
tion il reputation as a debater and statesman. During the war he was offered the 
command of a regiment by Gov. Morton, but declined, and in person took no 
active part during that struggle. In 1863 he founded the First National Bank at 
Indianapolis, and for years turned his attention to banking, in which pursuit he dis- 
played marked ability. He also acquired considerable interest in the city railroads 
of Indianapolis, and other stocks, but the prodigious energy he displayed under- 
mini'd his health so that in 1877 he resigned the presidency of the bank and an- 
nounced his intention of retiring from active business pursuits. His unanimous 
nomination for the vice presidency in 1880 and the defeat of his party are matters 
of national history. Mr. English was always a Democrat in politics, and many say 
he w 18 better than his party. For his life's helpmate. Miss Emma M. Jackson, of 
Virginia, became his wife November 17, 1847, who died November 14, 1S76, after 
bearing one son and one daughter. 

Edwin Finn is the general manager of the S. D. Kimbark manufacturing estalj- 
lishment at Elkhart, Ind., and in connection with his duties has perfected inventions 
that are destined to not only make his name famous as an inventor, but rank him 
among the labor-saving mechanics of the age. A native of Milwaukee, Wis., his 
birth occurred September 19, 1849, being a sou of William and Margaret (Page) 
Finn. The former was a botanist and a farmer and an unusually well posted and 
esteemed man. He died March 7, 1892, in Green county. Wis., at which place his 
widow yet lives. Edwin Finn is the eldest of a family of six children and his early 
youth was passed in acquiring a practical education. When j'et a bov he became 
an employe in a manufacturing establishment at Milton Junction, Wis., and since 
that time, with but little exception, he has followed mechanical pursuits. He at- 
tracted considerable attention by purchasing a saw and planing-mill at Quincy, 
Mich., and from an almost worthless plant succeeded in building it up to one of the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIASA. 41 

best and most productive of its kind in the southern part of the State. He was in- 
duced in 1886 to become connected with S. D. Kimbark, of Chicago, 111., assuming 
full charge of his establishment at Quincy, Mich.; but in August, 1890, came to 
Elkhart, Ind. , and began the erection of their present establishment. This consists 
of a main buildiug, two stories high, brick material, 80x400 feet, with a detaclied 
but contiguous buildiug one story high 40x212 feet. This is one of the largest and 
most perfectly equipped manufacturing establishments in the world, is protected by 
automatic water- works, and is a credit to the skill and ability of Mr. Finn. Tbey 
manufacture tine carriage bodies, seats, carriage parts, hickory and oak spokes, car- 
riage and wagon wood-work; employ about one hundred men and transact fully 
§100,000 worth of business yearly. Mr. Finn is a practical machinist of a high 
order and a genius for invention. Perhaps the most remarkable product of his fer- 
tile brain is a multiple automatic screw driver, the screws set automatically, which 
has thirty-two drivers and is operated by two men. This machine readily performs 
work on 200 l)odies daily and while not yet completed is already invaluable. A 
scarcely less serviceable invention of Mr. Finn's is his mnltiple automatic boring 
machine, operating sixteen bits, accomplishes work as weU as though done liy hand 
and is practically unlimited as to capacity. A mitre saw for making the joiut on 
body panels, after the panels have been securely glued to the frame, is another val- 
uable addition ^vrought by Mr. Finn, and its value is most important because it 
avoids splitting and insures perfect joints. Besides these he has improvements in- 
vented as attachments to other machinery, which, taken all together, is sufficient to 
insure him as one of the principal inventors of the age. Mr. Finn is a Republican 
and a Knight Templar Mason. To his marriage with Miss Franc A. Cummins, one 
son has been born — Willie I. 

Judge Joseph D. Arnold, attorney at law of Elkhart, was born in York township, 
Elkhart couuty, Ind., February 14, 1836, a son of A. B. and A. D. (Davis) 
Arnold, who were natives respectively of New York and Vermont. The Arnold 
family were early settlers of New England, the paternal grandfather, Joseph Arnold, 
having come from North Adams, Mass. Inanearlydayhebecamearesidentof theState 
of New York, where the remainder of his days were passed. His son, A. B. Arnold, 
was reared to a knowledge of farm life, but in 1835 left the State of New Y'^ork to 
remove to Indiana, coming thither in wagons and crossing the Dominion of Canada. 
They settled in what is now Y'ork township, which at that time was very sparsely 
settled. Heenteredeighty acres of Government land which was heavily timbered, upon 
which he erected a rude log cabin, and in this rude dwelling he continued to live un- 
til he could make better improvements. After a few years he removed to Wiscon- 
sin, where his life ended in 1885. He became quite prominent in Elkhart county 
and held the positions of justice of the peace, township trustee and held various 
other township offices. He and his wife became the parents of five sons, all of 
whom are living, four being residents of Wisconsin. On his father's farm the sub- 
ject of this sketch was brought up to a knowledge of agriculture, and like the 
majority of farmers' boys received his initiatory training in the old time subscrip- 
tion and public schools. Later he attended school at Ontario, Indiana and Cleve- 
land, Ohio. He remained under the shelter of the parental roof until he was 
twenty-four years of age, during which time he assisted in the duties of the farm, 
but at that time was made deputy county clerk and held the position from 1860 to 
1862, He then began reading law with John H. Baker and after a satisfactory and 
highly commendable examination he was admitted to the bar in 1863, soon after 
which he entered upon the practice of his profession in Goshen and Elkhart, con- 
tinuing until 1871, when he removed to Lake Geneva, Wis., where he engaged in 
farming until 1879, since which time he has resided at Elkhart. He was prosecut- 
ing attorney for the district comprising the counties of Elkhart, St. Joseph, Laporte 
and Marshall, from 1868 to 1870. In the month of May, 1892, he was elected city 
judge, is prominent in official circles and is a true and tried Republican. He was 



42 PICTORTAL AND BIOORAPEICAL 

married in 1865 to Miss Louise J., daughter of N. F. Brodrick, Esq., by whom 
he has two children: Glenn B., principal of the high school at Clintonville, Wis., 
and Halton C, clerk in a drag store at Lake Geneva, Wis. The judge is a member 
of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. 

Nehemiah F. Brodrick (deceased). All people of true sensibility and a just 
regard for the roemory of those who have departed this life cherish the details of the 
history of those whose careers have been marked by uprightness and truth and 
whose lives havebeeulilledup with acts of usefulness. Mr. Brodrick was apioneer of 
Elkhart county and was a member of a family that traced their origin to the isle of 
Erin, although they came to America during the early history of this country, the 
grandfather of Nehemiah, Anthony Brodrick, having been a patriot in the Ameri- 
can Revolution, holding the rank of colonel, and was in the battle of Ticonderoga. 
After living many years in New Jersey, he accompanied his son Robert, the father 
of Nehemiah, on his journey westward, but died on the way, in Fayette county, 
Penn., in the year 1807. The family continued their journey to Ohio and settled 
in Montgomery county, Ohio, near Dayton and two years afterward removed to 
Butler county, in the vicinity of Hamilton. Nehemiah F. Brodrick was born in 
Sussex county, N. J., April 30, 1805, near the site of the present town of 
La Fayette, and his early schooling, which was of a very limited character, was 
obtained in the public schools near Hamilton, Ohio, which he attended until he 
reached the age of eleven years, when he went to Piqua, Ohio, and entered the store 
of William Johnson. His stay here was brief, for he soon accompanied his father 
to Allen county (now Auglaize), Ohio, locating at Wapakoneta, where his father 
entered the employ of Col. Johnson, Indian agent, as blacksmith for the Shawnee 
Indiana, which position he retained for twelve years, and so endeared himself to the 
Wolf tribe that with great pomp and ceremony he was made a member of the tribe 
and was christened No-sau luck-au, or the ■" guardian." In 1817 Nehemiah F. 
returned to Piqua, Ohio, where he clerked in the store of Nicholas Greenham until 
he attained the age of eighteen years, when he returned to Wapakoneta and com- 
menced the traffic of goods on his own account, the majority of his patrons being 
the numerous Indians that roamed the country. Mr. Brodrick became thoroughly 
familiar with the Shawnee language and was able to speak it fluently. In 1829 he 
was selected by the Indians, and confirmed by the Government, as one of the ap- 
praisers of their improvements, and to him was intrusted the proceeds, amounting to 
about $13,000, to distribute among the tribe. He remained in that locality for 
some twelve years, at the end of which time he removed to Shelby county of the 
same State, where he sold goods until 1835 at Hardin, near Sidney, filling also the 
position of surveyor of that county for five years. He was married in 1831 to 
Margaret Henry, sister of the late Dr. John H. Henry, by whom he had five chil- 
dren: John H., Charles B., Justus L., Melissa (deceased), and Louise J., wife of 
Judge Joseph D. Arnold, of Elkhart. In September, 1835, Mr. Brodrick came to 
Elkhart, which was then a villageof about two hundred inhabitants and found employ- 
ment in the store of Elijah Beardsley, the only merchant and postmaster of the place. 
The winter of 1835-6 he taught a three months' term of school, but in 1840, in con- 
nection with Dr. J. H. Henry, he opened a mercantile establishment, and continued, 
sometimes with a partner and sometimes without, for nine years, after which he de- 
voted his time and attention to the duties of justice of the peace and for over 
twenty-one years adjusted his neighbor's difficulties in a very praisworthy and im- 
partial manner. He occasionally acted as a surveyor, and surveyed several additions 
to the town of Elkhart, his duties in this respect being quite arduous. His work 
was always noted for the care bestowed upon it, as well as for its absolute accuracy. 
Throughout a long and well-spent life the breath of calumny never found on him a 
resting place, and all who knew him entertained for him the highest feeling of friend- 
ship and respect. In politics he was an earnest Republican and in the struggle of 
the Government to put down the late Rebellion he gave his earnest support to the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 43 

Union and sent two sons to the war. He was called from life on the 13th of May, 
1879, his death resulting from heart disease. 

John H. Brodrick has successfully followed various occupations throughout life 
and is now one of the wealthy capitalists of Elkhart, with the interests of which 
city he has been identified from the commencement of his career, for here he first 
saw the light of day on November 9, 1835, his father being Nehemiah F. Brodrick, 
whose sketch appears above. John H. was educated in the public schools of Elkhart 
and being ambitious, he, at an early age, opened a furniture establishment which he 
conducted until the spring of 1800, when he sold out and removed to Shelby county, 
Ohio, where, for two years, he was engaged in farming in the vicinity of Sidney. 
In that year he returned to Elkhart and purchased property, and in the fall he 
joined Company D, One Hundredth Indiana Infantry, with which he served until 
the war closed, acting in the capacity of commissary sergeant, with headquarters at 
Louisville, Ky. , during the last winter of the war being on detached hospital duty 
with the Army of Tennessee. He witnessed many fiercely contested battles, among 
which were Missionary Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain and the engagements of the Atlanta 
campaign, beinar on those bloody battlefields issuing rations to the soldiers. He 
was mustered out of the service in 1865 and returned to his home to once more take 
up the peaceful pursuits of a civilian's life, and until 1878 was a successful mer- 
chant and manufacturer. He then decided to follow the advice of Horace Greeley 
and "go west,"' and in 1878 he found himself in Kansas, where he followed milling 
and was quite extensively engaged in dealing in real estate in Mitchell and Osborne 
counties. He built the largest hotel in the Northwest at Osborne, Kan., and named 
the house "Key West," but it is now known as the Lipton House. In Jan- 
uary, 1881, he returned to Elkhart, which city has since been his home. He helped 
to build the starch works at Elkhart, has been a valuable citizen of the city in numer- 
ous ways, and has expended large sums of money in building up and improving the 
place. For one year he did business in Goshen, but Elkhart has been the principal 
scene of his operations. He was married in January, 1860, to Miss Eleanora S. 
Maxwell, a native of Sidney, Ohio, by whom he has five children: Laura E., wife 
of C. W. Baldwin, of Osborne, Kan.; Alberta M. , wife of S. E. Ruede; Carl J.; 
Harry M., and Ralph E. Mr. Brodrick is a member of the Grand Army of the 
Republic, Shiloh Post, of which he is an honored member. His experience in life 
has been a varied one, but at the same time one that reflects great credit upon him, 
and the reputation he has acquired as a shrewd man of business and a public spir- 
ited citizen has been gained through his own individual efforts and at the expense 
of hard, practical experience. 

Hon. Richard W. Thompson was a native of Culpeper county, Va., born in 
June, 1809, and was descended from one of " the first families of Virginia." \Yhen 
twenty-two years old he emigrated to Indiana, taught a private school at Bedford 
and later opened the Lawrence County Seminary. Subsequently he read law, was 
admitted to the bar in 1834 and the same year was elected to the State legislature, 
and reelected in 1838. In 1839 he was elected to the State Senate and during his 
career as a State legislator not only displayed great ability and foresight, but was 
instrumental in effecting very important legislation. Upon the resignation of 
Lieut.-Gov. Wallace, Mr. Thompson was president of the Senate pro tempore, and 
held the office of acting governor during the administration of Hon. Noah Noble. 
As a Whig he was nominated and elected to Congress in 1841 from the Second dis- 
trict, and declining a renomination moved to Terre Haute in 1843, where for nearly 
half a century he was engaged in the practice of the law. In 1847 he was again 
nominated for Congress by the Whig party, and, accepting the nomination, was re- 
elected and became a national character because of his prominence in legislative 
matters. Although tendered the Austrian mission by President Taylor in 1849, he 
declined the appointment, preferring to remain in his native country. During the 
war of the Rebellion he rendered the union active and valuable services, was com- 



44 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

mandaat of Camp Dick Thompson, near Terre Haute, and also served as provost 
marshal of the district. In 1 867 he was elected judge of the Eighteenth Judicial 
District, but declined the candidature of a second term. For a number of years he 
lived in retirement, steadily refusing political preferment, and turning his attention 
to literary and educational pursuits, his large and valuable library affording him an 
ample field for study. In March, 1877, President Hayes appointed him to his cabi- 
net as Secretary of the Navy, and so ably did he fill the duties of that position that 
he brought order out of chaos, simplified the duties of his subordinates, dismissed 
unnecessary employes, established his department on a sound basis and saved sev- 
eral milliou dollars to the Government that had previously been fi'ittered away. Mr. 
Thompson is one of the men whose name bears an imperishable imprint on the x^age 
of Indiana history. He is now in his eighty-fifth year, hale and hearty; he has 
been a participant in sixteen presidential campaigns and on September 3, 1893, 
made one of the ablest political speeches of his life, comprising six columns of news- 
paper print. 

HoK.iCE S. Hubbard, of the Hubbard Lumber Company, of Elkhart, Ind. , is an en- 
terprising man of affairs and is engaged in a business that has always held an im- 
portant place in the commercial centers of the country. The successful conduct of 
the business employs large capital, and Mr. Hubbard has an extensive yard, well 
stocked with hard wood and pine lumber, in fact, all sorts of building material is 
kept constantly on hand. Mr. Hubbard was born in Minneapolis, Minn., June 13, 
1859, a son of S. D. and Eliza (Sexton) Hubbard, who were born in Vermont and 
Hartford, Conn., respectively. The father was one of the early settlers of Minne- 
sota, and while in that State took part in a number of engagements with the Indians. 
After some time he removed to Pittsburg, Penn., and almost immediately engaged 
in the manufacture of axes, saws, shovels, etc., the establishment being now known 
as the American Ax & Tool Co. Five of the six children born to himself and wife 
are living: C. S., Nellie S., Horace S., Lucy K. and William H. In the public 
schools of Pittsburg Horace S. Hubbard was educated, graduating from the high 
school of that place. His early knowledge of business was acquired in his father's 
manufactory, but after some time he removed to Elkhart, Ind., about 1882, and later 
was engaged in merchandising in Chicago and Denver, Colo. In the latter city he 
was in the hardware business with George Switch Hardware Company, the largest 
house in its line in the West. Succeeding this he was with the Norman-Percheron 
Horse Company of Greeley, Colo. , and for some time was engaged in ranching. In Jan- 
uary, 1891, he embarked in his present business in Elkhart, which he has conducted 
in a very successful manner. He is a very progressive man of business, is liberal with 
his patrons and as a result has already become the recipient of much favor and a 
liberal patronage. Mr. Hubbard was married in 1884 to Miss Nora J., daughter of 
A. J. Wolf, a prominent business man of Elkhart, and their union has resulted in 
the birth of one child, a daughter. Hazel O. Mr. Hubbard is quite extensively en- 
gaged in the real estate business, and is the very efificient manager of the A. J. Wolf 
estate. He has been a notary public since 1891, and is a member of the Royal 
Arcanum. He and his wife worship in the Presbyterian Church. 

Martin G. S.\ge (deceased). Among the noble men- of Elkhart county, Ind., 
who fulfilled their destiny and are now no more, may be mentioned Martin G. Sage, 
whose walk through life was characterized by the most honorable business methods, 
by the keenness of his commercial instincts, by his devotion to his family and friends 
and by the interest he took in the welfare of his fellow-men. In him Elkhart lost 
one of its most industrious and successful citizens, and when the final summons 
came on Sunday, September 11, 1892, there ended a busy, industrious life that had 
done much to advance the commercial importance of the county and especially the 
city that had l)een his home for so many years. His natal county was Chautauqua, 
N. Y., where he first saw the light of day July 24, 1817, and when still a youth 
numerous burdens were laid upon his slender shoulders and he was intrusted with 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 45 

important duties. At the age of sixteen years he was sent by his father to Adams- 
ville. Cass Co., Mich., to represent him in his business relations with his father's 
partner, with whom he was engaged in general merchandising. The mill at Adams- 
ville was erected shortly after young Sage's arrival and he took an active part in 
superintending its building. His parents and only brother, Norman, followed him 
to Cass county in 1834, and when the latter had attained his majority the father in- 
formed his sons that his property was involved, but if they would join him in part- 
nership and wipe out this obligation, he would transfer the property to them. They 
accejited, and from that time were intimately associated in their business relations, 
and being unusually enterprising and energetic, their labors were crowned with 
success. 

The father. Moses Sage, died in 1862, after which Martin and Norman continued 
the business of milling, merchandising and farming, which he had established there, 
and did all their business and owned everything in common. About 1872 Martin 
came to Elkhart, Ind., to reside, and joined Norman, who had come in 1869, in the 
milling business, and until about six years ago they were equal partners in all their 
enterprises. Then they began to divide up their extensive estate, and up to the 
death of Martin, the only property held in common was the Harvest Queen Flouring 
Mill and some land about their beautiful brick residences on Division street. The 
most of his time was devoted to the management of the mill, but he was also the 
sole owner of a mill at Adamsville, which property he inherited from his fath< r's 
estate, held stock in the National Starch Company and stock in the Globe Tissue 
Paper Mill, besides considerable private property. Always practical and posses-sing 
methodical habits, these characteristics stood him in good stead in helping to liqui- 
date his father's indebtedness, and they soon found themselves out of deep water and 
floating on a prosperous tide. About two weeks prior to his death he was pros- 
traied with typhoid fever and, owing to his advanced age and enfeebled condition 
caused by frequent severe sicknesses, he was unable to withstand the resistless 
onslaughts of the terrible typhus, and he finally succumbed to the grim destroyer. 
He was surrounded by his family and that of his brother Norman when the end 
came. He left a widow and two children. Carleton Sage, a sou of his tirst wife, 
L lura, a sister of Col. R. M. and Guy C. Johnson, of this city, whom he married in 
February, 1850, and who died in April, 1851. He next married Mrs. Jane Bird, a 
sister of John S. Merritt, of La Grange, who bore him three children: Ella, Norman 
Henry and Laura. Ella married George B. Merritt and died about twelve years 
ago. Norman H. was killed in the Harvest Queen Mill in October, 1886, leaving a 
little daughter who was adopted by Mr. Sage. Laura is married to Edward Bush- 
nell, of Chicago. The mother of these children was called from life some fifteen 
years ago, and in 1881 Mr. Sage wedded his third wife. Miss Mary Mori'ow, who 
survives him. Although his early educaticmal advantages were quite limited, he 
was an intelligent and polished gentleman, both by instinct and training, and his 
])ersonal appearance was decidedly pleasing. He possessed generous, true-hearted 
and hospitable instincts, and being kind and social in disposition he won numerous 
friends and rarely lost them. He kept thoroughly posted on the general topics of 
the day, and being a man of intellect, he used his wealth to a good advantage and 
materially aided in the upbuilding of mercantile enterprises which have and do 
now reflect credit upon the community. He was never so happy as when surrounded 
iiy his family, to whom he was very devoted, and his many friends, and the affection 
that always existed between himself and his brother Norman was always a very close 
and strong one. Undisturbed in the later years of his life by cares other than 
those he allowed to rest lightly upon him, he devoted much of his time to social 
pleasures of a quiet kind, and thus gracefully grew old and passed to his reward. 
He was postmaster at Adamsville, Mich., from about 1840 to 1870. 

Dr. Porter Turner, the above mentioned gentleman, is a gifted young physician 
who has seen tit to locate for the practice of his noble and iiseful calling in the 



46 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

town where he first saw the light of day — Elkhart, lud., aud owing to a superior 
knowledge of his calling as well as to his natural kindness of lieart and sympathetic 
nature he has gathered about him a large number of patrons. He has the happy 
faculty of inspiring his patients with courage and hope, which goes a long way to- 
ward "their recovery, and his prospect for a brilliant future in the field of medical 
science is a very bright one. He was born in July, 1852, to Lyman and Tamar 
(Wilkinson) Turner, natives of New York and Ohio respectively, but in 1849 this 
worthy couple took up their residence in Elkhart county. Ind., where the father de- 
voted his attention to farming until his death, which occurred in 1889, his widow- 
still surviving him. They became the parents of five children: Porter, and Perry L. , 
the only ones now living. Dr. Porter Turner was by no means nursed on the 
lap of luxury in his youth, but he always had an abundance of everything necessary 
for his comfort, and he fortunately received the advantages of the excellent public 
schools of Elkhart, and with excellent judgment made the most of his opportunities. 
All his young life was spent in laboring on the farm, where the very air he breathed 
seemed to give him hope, pluck and courage, and when he started out in life for him- 
self at the age of twenty four years, although his inheritance was insufficient to en- 
able him to start in tberace of life with flattering prospect of building up a large 
fortune, he did inherit industry, integrity, and that indomitable energy so charac- 
teristic of men who have become conspicuous in their callings. After deciding to devote 
his life to medicine, he entered the Hahnemann Medical College, of Chicago, from 
which he graduated in 1886, after which he immediately opened an office in 
Elk^iart and at once arose in popular favor until he now has a sufiicient practice to 
keep him constantly employed. He pays special attention to general surgery, in 
which he has done some exceptionally skillful and delicate work, and he seems to 
have a natural aptitude for this branch of medicine. He is a member of Northern 
Indiana and the Southern Michigan Homceopathic Medical Society; also theludiana 
State Medical Society, and he practices among the best people of the county. He 
belongs to that honorable order, the Knights of Pythias. He was married in 1872 
to Miss Charlotte Titus, of Elkhart, by whom he has five children; Willie F. , 
Nellie, Minnie, Lillian and Carrie. A thoroughly conscientious practitioner of 
medicine, he entertains the idea that the first and highest obligation of a physician 
is to his patients, and to discharge that obligation faithfully, requires that he should 
keep pace with the progress of medical science. This necessitates not only much 
hard study of the science of medicine itself, but kindred sciences as well. An esti- 
mable gentleman, as well as a successful physician, honest and conscientious, in his 
dealings with his patients, upright in all business transactions, and courteous in his 
intercourse with other members of the profession, he commands the respect of those 
with whom he is at all intimately associated, and their admiration for his many fine 
mental qualities. 

George H. Fister, city clerk of Elkhart, Ind., and a man of much intelligence, 
force of character and determination, was born in Adrian, Mich., on September 3, 
1853, a son of George W. and Johanna R. (Pruden) Fister, who came from the State 
of New York and were among the early settlers of the State of Michigan in the 
vicinity of Adrian. The father was a machinist and engineer of much ability and 
intelligence, attained prominence in his calling, and while a resident of Michigan he 
held a number of official positions. He died in Toledo, Ohio, in January, 1892, he 
and his wife having become the parents of the following children: George H., 
Charles F. aud Colonel P., and one daughter who died in childhood. George H. 
Fister was about nine years of age when his parents moved to Toledo, and there the 
principal part of his education was obtained. He possessed quite an artistic temper- 
meut. and during his youth devoted his attention to that calling and became a very 
skillful manipulator of the brush, especially in the way of sign and ornamental dec- 
oration, to which he devoted the most of his attention. So thoroughly did he become 
the master of tliis art thut as a token of his proficiency he was awarded a medal bj' 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 47 

his employers. He served one year as a wood engraver in the firm of French Bros., 

of ToleJo. and one year was \i\ the commisriion office of John Stevens & Co., but 
left this firm to take a course in a commercial college, and fitted himself for an act- 
ive business life in aa institution of Toledo. Since 1877 he has been an honored 
re.sident of Elkhart, Ind. , and soon after locating here accepted a position with the 
Lake Shore & Michigan Southein Railroad, as sign writer, in which employ he con- 
tinued to remain until 1890. at which time he severed his connection with this 
road and was made the recipient of testimouials from his employers of which he is 
justly proud. In May, 1890, he was honored with an election to the office of city 
clerk, and discharged his duties in so satisfactory a manner that he was re-elected 
iu May, 1892, aad is fully carrj-ing out the good impression he made during his 
first term. Miss Nellie M. Aldrich, of Elkhart, became his wife April 16, 1879, 
and has presented Mr. Fister with three children, Arthur A. being the only one 
now living. One child died of diphtheria August 1, 1890, and the other of the 
same dread disease two weeks later. Mr. Fister is a member of the Knights 
of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, iu both of which worthy 
organizations he is an honored member. As an illustration of his popularity it is 
but necessary to state that upon his re-election to his present office he had the 
largest majority ever given to any man elected to official position in Elkhart. He 
is a gentleman in every worthy particular and stands very high, not only iu 
political, but also business and social circles. 

Thomas A, Hendricks, No man in the State of Indiana ever attained the ideal 
citizenship, the affection of his neighbors or the lasting regard of the Democracy of 
the State in a higher degree than Thomas A. Hendricks. The purity of his private 
life, his simple, unassuming ways, his keen, analytical mind, his brilliancy as a de- 
bater and his shrewdness as a political manager forever place him among the most 
eminent men of the nation. John Hendricks, his father, was a farmer by occupa- 
tion, and the family was one of the pioneers of Westmoreland county, Peun. He 
married Miss Jane Thomson, and early in the year 1820 moved with his family to In- 
dinna and settled at Madison, where a brother, William Hendricks, who served as Con- 
gressman, governor and United States Senator, had preceded him. John Hen- 
dricks was a deputy surveyor of public lands of Indiana, a position acquired under 
the administration of President Jackson. He moved to Shelby County in 1822, 
which was the family home for years. Thomas A. Hendricks was born on a farm 
near Zanesville, Muskingum Co, Ohio, September 7, 1819. He was reared in In- 
diana to manhood, and attended college at South Hanover. Early in j'outh he 
evinced a predilection for the study of law, and after pursuing the usual course of in- 
struction was admitted to the bar at Shelbyville. His success as a lawyer was not 
rapid, as is usually the case of prominent men, but was gradual and fairly remuner- 
ative. The game of politics was always fascinating to him, and is so interwoven with 
his political career that in his case they are well nigh inseparable. In 18-1:8 he was 
elected to the State legislature, declining a renomination, and inl850 was unanimously 
chosen senatorial delegate to the convention empowered to amend the State constitution. 
In 1851 he was elected to Congress, was re-elected two years later, but in 1854 was 
defeated for the same position. Much to his surprise, and wholly unsolicited on his 
part, he was appointed commissioner of the general land office by Pre.sident Pierce 
in 1855, and for a period of four years he faithfully discharged the duties of this of- 
fice. In 1860, when national. State and local jiolitics were in a volcanic condition, 
he was the candidate of the Democratic party for governor, but was defeated bj'Col. 
Henry I. Lane, who resigned the position in favor of Oliver P. Morton, iu order to ac- 
cept the election of United States senator. Through Mr. Hendricks' indefatigable 
efforts Hud personal popularity.the State elected a majority of Democratic legislators in 
1862, and they, iuturn for his faithful services, rewarded him by electing him United 
States senator. Hiscareeras senator was somewhat different from that of many of 
the prominent membersof his party in the North. He favored the earnest prosecution 



48 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of the wiir, voting for all measures to that end; he opposed conscription, and advo- 
cated all measures teading to the enlistment of troop-i and the payment of bounties. 
At the close of the war he inaiutained that, inasmuch as the States in rebellion had 
never been out of the Union, they were entitled to their full and usual representa- 
tion in Congress, and that these States should have entire control of their respect- 
ive State governments. He opposed the constitutional amendments on the grounds 
tliat the rebellious States were not represented, and because, in his opinion, suffi- 
cient time should elapse for passion to cool and prejudice abate before such action 
should be taken. After his term of six years as senator had expired he devoted his 
time to the exclusive practice of law, and having previously (1S60) moved to Indian- 
apolis he found an extensive Held for his talents. Against his protests he was nom- 
inated for governor in 1872 and was decisively elected, serving as chief executive 
ofKcer of the State four years. He liecame the political idol of the Democrats of the 
State and their earnest support and his national popularity gained for him the vice- 
presidential nomination in 1876, but was defeated with Gov. Tilden. In 1884 
he was again honored by a nomination for this exalted office, and was elected with 
President Cleveland. In the midst of his administration his career on earth ended. 
Hon. Cyrus F. Hosier. The facility with which the American soldier laid down 
the implements of warfare, at the close of the great conflict between the Northern 
and Sonthern States, and adapted himself to the pursuits of civil life, has been the 
wonder of all nations, and scarcely less surprising than gratifj'ing to the American 
people themselves. While not a few very profound citizens of the republic were 
speculating as to what was to become of the thousands of men mustered out of the 
armies of the United States, the question was solved by the ex- soldiers themselves, 
who quietly stepped into the ordinary walks of life, to become the very flower of 
.American citizenship, and the chief promotors of a national progress which is with- 
out a parallel in history. In ability, industry, integrity and morality, in respect 
for the rights of others, and everything that goes to make np a good citizen, the 
manhood of the nation suffered nothing as a result of the war, biit on the contrary 
it has been demonstrated that the beardless boys who left the farm, the workshoj). 
the storeroom and the college, to fight the battles which were to preserve the life 
of the nation, came out of the conflict as a rule, better fitted for that kind of syste- 
matic, tireless and persistent effort which wins success, than the young Americans 
of any generation since the revolutionary period. This fact can not fail to impress 
itself upon either the writer of American history proper, or of that branch of his- 
tory which consists of the biographies of those who have achieved sufficient dis- 
tinction to make the record of their lives of interest to the public. Whenever we 
attempt to write the history of a great enterprise, we find among its chief promot- 
ers, men who were at Vicksburg, Donelson, Gettysburg, or Appomattox; we find 
the same class of men on the bench, at the bar, in the pulpit, in high official ])osi- 
tions, and in the field of medicine, and wherever we find them, with rare exceptions, 
they reflect the highest credit upon their respective callings. The subject of this 
sketch was one who donned the blue uniform and fought bravely for the old flag, 
serving with distinction through the Rebellion. He comes of good old fighting 
stock, his paternal grandfather having fought and died for independence. Mr. 
Mosier was born on June 21, 1840, and is a descendant of English ancestors, in- 
heriting their thrift and enterprise. He is the son of Cyrus and Rebecca (Weeks) 
Mosier, natives of the Empire State, where the father, in connection with the mill- 
wright trade, carried on a carriage manufactory. The Weeks family was related to 
the Mosier family on the mother's side, and several members of this family were 
killed in the noted Wyoming massacre. The parents of our subject had born to 
their union three children, as follows: Horace (deceased), Cyrus F., and Charles 
who was drowned in a spring. Cyrus F. was but two months old when bis father 
died, and his mother afterward removed to Corning, N. Y., where she resided for 
six vears From there she moved toward the setting sun and settled in New Haven, 




God. CLAUDE MATTHEWS. 



AfEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 49 

Ind., where she married Kufus McDonald, one of the prominent men of that sec- 
tion. By this union two children were Iwru, only one, Rutus, now living. The 
original of this notice has known the demands of poverty, and consorted with them 
if any man has, but his honesty, goodness, energy and perseverance have brought 
their rewards which he and family are now enjoying. When but a boy he started 
out to tight his own way in life, and first stopped at Newville, Ind., where he se- 
cured employment and schooling during the winter mouths, for six years, working 
during the summer seasons for his schooling the following winter. At the end of 
this time he was offered the principalship of this school and after serving in that 
capacity for some time, he accepted other positions. Mr. Mosier is not an educated 
man in the technical sense of the word, but he harmonizes cause and effect so log- 
ically, that he is recognized as one whose opinion is of much weight. In 1861. on 
the first call for troops in the State, he was the first man to enlist in the call 
from De Kalb county. He joined Company F, Twelfth Regiment as private and 
later was made sergeant of Company E. Fifty-fifth Regiment. Still later he was 
made first lieutenant of Company D, One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, and 
served in that capacity for two years and one month, or until about the close of hos- 
tilities. He was captured with about seven thousand men, but made good his escape 
before seeing the inside of prison walls. He was in many hotly contested battles 
during service, and no braver soldier trod the red sod of a battle field. Returning 
home after the war, he engaged in the manufacture of brick, continued this two 
years, and then located in New Haven, Ind., where he was employed as a teacher in 
the vicinity. For seventeen years he was one of the prominent educators of that 
section, and in that capacity his peculiar capabilities shone forth in their brightest 
splendor. He served two terms as city attorney of New Haven, and being a Re- 
publican and the town being strongly Democratic, demonstrated very clearly the 
hold Mr. Mosier had upon the affection of the people. From there he moved to 
Maysville, Ind., and started a newspaper, but in the spring of 1877 he removed to 
Bristol, Elkhart county, and started the Bristol Banner, a publication which has 
much to do with molding public sentiment inside its circulation, and which influ- 
ence sent Mr. Mosier two terms to the Indiana Legislature from this countj' in 
1882, a position he filled with credit to himself and his party. Had he not declined 
peremptorily, he might have been returned in 1888, but like the true gentleman, he 
felt he had been honored enough, and stood aside, cheerfully, only, however, to work 
the harder for his successor. He still owns and controls the Bristol Banner and its 
crisp and trenchant editorials command an ever widening area of circulation, while 
they carry with them that weight and authority which a clear, calm and intelligent 
judgment must always secure. Mr. Mosier is the president of the People's Mutual 
Benefit Society, a position he has held for years, and though subject to deposition 
by the stockholders at their annual, he is nevertheless periodically, made his own 
successor, which compliments his integrity, evidences his popularity, and in so many 
words says: '' Leave well enough alone. " He has erected a good substantial busi- 
ness block in Bristol, and is prosperous. He is deeply interested in anything 
that points to the elevation of the city of his adoption, is popular with the masses, 
urbane toward all, and if there be anything wanting in his makeup to make him 
a Christian gentleman, no one has discovered it. He enjoys his well-earned re- 
ward with dignity, while his home is a green spot after day's duty is over, Mrs. 
Mosier being a true counterpart of her excellent husband, and as cheerful and 
generous a dispenser, and what may be said of him can be said of few, that he is 
never spoken ill of, and while there may be better people in the city, it will take 
the umpire of ceremonies to discover them. He is a man of stalwart simplicity 
and fine discrimination between right and wrong, and having the courage of his 
convictions, he is a fighter no matter what the odds. He has a plain but forcible 
manner in appealing to public sentiment, which makes him one of the people as an 
integer, and which would elevate him politically, if he possessed the cheek of the 



50 riCTOIilAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

average office-seeker, but being Ijiiilt on a more modest plane, it works to bis dis- 
advantage, though proljably more to his taste. One of the strongest traits of 
his character is prudence, never acting until all doubt is removed, and the outcome 
logically weighed, and when decided, he rides down obstacles against all bias, hon- 
orable in expense, liberal in contributions to what promises utility, but unworthy 
calls on his charity get the cold shoulder, and it may truly be said that nature 
and fortune lind in him a combine seldom met, which is why he and Elkhart get 
on together well, and why each is proud to own the other, and may he and his 
live long in the friendship of the city of their adoption. Mr. Hosier was elected 
a member of the school board and e.x-officio member county board of education 
for three terms in succession and was secretary of the board at the same time. 
He is treasurer of the Fidelity Building & Savings Union of Indianapolis, where 
he spends much of his time, and socially he is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the 
G. A. R. He was married on May 24, 1863, to Miss Drusilla L. Roe, and they 
have one child living, Horace. Urtis V. and Inez B. are deceased. Horace oc- 
cupies the chair of manager of the loan department of Fidelity Building & 
Loan Company, at a good salary, although only twenty years of age. 

E. T. Oilman, manager of the People's Mutual Benefit Society, Elkhart, Ind., is 
a courteous and genial gentleman, and, besides being respected for his intelligence 
and ability, is popular in business and social circles. The county of his birth is 
Essex, N. Y., where he first saw the light of day in the month of February, 1839, 
a son of Hiram H. and Elizabeth K. (Palmer) Gilman, natives of the States of Ver- 
mont and New York respectively, their ancestors being of English origin and on 
coming to the New World, ranking among the leading settlers of New England. 
The parents of Hiram H. Gilman died when he was quite young, and he was reared 
by his "Aunt Patty," known as the "bear killer" from the fact that during the 
pioneer days she killed a bear unaided, when a girl. Mr. Gilman was brought up 
to a knowledge of hard labor in his youthful days, but the knowledge thus learned 
in the rough school of experience made a man of him and taught him to rely upon 
his own resources when yet very young. He was married in New York State and his 
union resulted in the birth of three sons and two daughters, of which family four 
members are still living, William W., Julia S., E. T. and Eleazer E. The father 
died in Minnesota in 1873 and his wife in Dakota ten years later. E. T. was reared 
in the State of his birth and was given the advantage of the " little red school 
house" in which he made the most of the opportunities given him; and he eventually 
turned his attention to " teaching the young idea" in connection with tilling the 
soil. In 1861 the threatened attitude of political affairs attracted his serious atten- 
tion and he became an ardent supporter of the grand old " stars and stripes. " In 
the month of July, 1862, his name was inscribed on the rolls of Company B, One 
Hundred and Twenty-third New York Volunteers, the fortunes of which he fol- 
lowed in numerous bloody encounters with the enemy and on various long and toil- 
some marches. He was at Chancellorsville, Gettysburg and in all the engagements 
with Sherman on his famous "Atlanta campaign" and subsequent march to the 
sea. His career as a soldier was marked by many hardships, which he bore with 
soldierly fortitude and by undaunted courage displayed on the march, in camp and 
on the field of battle. After the termination of hostilities and an honorable dis- 
charge from the services of Uncle Sam at the close of the war of the Rebellion he 
located in the Green Mountain State where he engaged in agriculture for some 
time, but preferring commercial pursuits he entered the employ of a lumber firm at 
Fort Edward, N. Y. , as bookkeeper, where he acquired a thorough knowledge of the 
business of manufacturing lumber, so extensively carried on upon the North River, 
remaining until 1871. At this period he married Miss Eliza M. True, of Glens 
Falls, a daughter of one of the sturdy old pioneers of the State of New York, soon 
after which he settled at Williamsport, Penn,, and engaged in the lumber and ]ilan- 
ing-mill business. This he conducted in an efficient and profitable manner until 



MEMOIKS OF INDIANA. 51 

1876, when lie engaged in life insurance, being appointed, general agent for the old 
Charter Oak Life Insurance Company. After remaining with this company for five 
years he resigned and engaged in manufactures at Chicago, 111., which calling 
occupied his attention until 1885, when he disposed of his interest in the business 
and returned to life insurance, entering the employ of the Phcenix, of Hartford and 
locating at Albany, N. Y. In 1888 he accepted the position of general traveling 
agent for the People's Mutual Benefit Society, of Elkhart, and at the end of two 
years was given a position in the home office as superintendent of the agency 
department, which position he held until the resignation of the vice-president, M. 
E. Galvin, now of Detroit. Mr. Gilman was then chosen vice-presirlent and general 
manager of the society and is now faithfully discharging the duties of those posi- 
tions. He is a thorough practical man of affairs, is wide avsake, pushing and enter- 
prising, keenly alive to the interests of the company, honorable in all his business 
transactions and has the happj- faculty of making friends of all with whom he has 
business relations. His brother, William, a prospeions farmer of Newton county, 
at present represents his senatorial district in the State Legislature at Indianapolis. 
In the Masonic fraternity he is a Sir Knight, and as a member of the G. A. R., a 
member of Elmer Post. His second marriage was to Miss Alice Hawks, of New 
York City, a most estimable and accomplished lady, whose early life was passed in 
the pleasant village of Sandy Hill, N. Y. He is a member of the Baptist Church. 

Capt. Henry C. Dodge. It was the lot of Henry C. Dodge to come into this 
liusy world at a time and under surroundings calculated not only to develop the 
best that was in him, but to so combine or unite the elements of his character as to 
form a symmetrical whole, self-reliant, broadguaged. courageous, full of tactile 
resources, with an unusual power of blending the theoretical and the practical, and 
with all the elements of mind and heart to make a representative man and citizen. 
On October 9, 1843, when he was born in Delaware county, Ohio, that State and 
Indiana, where he was brought by his parents in 1847, were both yet in the hands 
of the pioneers and the day of invention and wonderful progress was just dawning. 
No man could foretell the future, as the advancement was destined to be so sudd<>n 
and biilliaiit that historj' could furnish no comparison for the guidance of the mind. 
It, was an intellectual, generative era, a date when the blended civilizations of many 
n.vtionalities on this continent were united into a new type of mind — one of ccn- 
trivance or invention, a dominant, aggressive intelligence that was destined to give 
to the world the telegraph, telephone, triple-expansion engine, the electric motor 
and countless other wonderful contrivances to save labor and render mankind happy. 
It was the fortune of Mr. Dodge to have been liorn under these influences, amid 
these surroundings and impulses; and it must be remembered that circumstances, 
in a large degree, make the man. But let us look a little closer into his sur- 
roundings and weigh the influence of conditions on his manners and mind. 

It was a lucky thing for Mr. Dodge, as it is for thousands of our best citizens 
at present, to have been reared on a farm in the country, away from the contami- 
nating influences of the city. It thus came to pass that when at the age of sixteen 
years, in 1859, he entered a drug store in Elkhart, Ind., his habits were simple and 
good, his mind and morals pure and his character fresh, manly and buoyant. Pre 
vious to this event his schooling had been very meager, consisting simply of two 
terms at the common schools of the country. His father, Charles Dodge, was a 
man of comfortable circumstances, but was one of the juoneers, with their habits 
and views of life. He died in 1885, preceded l)y his wife five years. Thus at 
twelve years of age he began life's battle upon his own responsibility. Necessarily 
his educational advantages were limited anil what he had was self-acquired. On 
the death of his father he went to live with an uncle in Ohio, but when his uncle 
attt-mpted to thresh him for some fancied wrong he ran away, and, barefoot, walked 
to Elkhart, Ind. Thus was his advent in this city. When fifteen years old he 
swung a cradle in the harvest field, making his full hand for 50 cents i)er dav. That 



53 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

year he lived alone in a deserted house, boarding himself, and saved $85. The 
next year he chopped cord- wood and owing to the scarcity of money took his pay in 
maple sugar. The change came in the life of Henry C , when the family came to 
Elkhart county in 1847. His approaching manhood, his quick perception and his 
new surroundings made a man of him when he entered the drug store of Lloyd 
W. Burns in Elkhart in 1859. I'rom that time forward until August, 1862, he 
remained in this store, though iu the meantime the owner, Mr. Burns, died and the 
property passed to Isaac Bueklen. During this period he studied medicine and 
otherwise in a large measure supplemented the deficient education of his earlier 
years. In fact this was the formative period in his career. With sound health 
and a mind of unusual penetration, he found himself able to grasp all the great 
public questions of the day, and to take a correct and comprehensive view of the 
duties of life. In other words he found that he possessed higher qualities than 
those required to plod along like a snail through life. It thus occurred that in 
1862 he was a broad-souled man of unusual intelligence and of unswerving princi- 
ples and patriotism. 

In the month of August, 1862, he enlisted as a private in Company G, Sev- 
enty-fourth Regiment, Indiana Volunteers, in which capacity he served with honor 
until April, 1863, when he was appointed hospital steward of his regiment and served 
thus until March 3, 1865. On the 1st of January, 1865, he was promoted to acting 
assistant surgeon of his regiment with the rank of captain of cavalry, receiving his 
commission from Gov. O. P. Morton, and was the youngest man in the service occupy- 
ing so responsible a position. But he had won the promotion and honor by gallantry 
and a stern adherence to duty. He served in this capacity until the cessation of 
hostilities and was honorably discharged from the service at Indianapolis, June 29, 
1865. While serving in the ranks he participated in many of the hottest engage- 
ments of the war. He was in the tierce encounter at Perry ville, Kv. , where 
the right wing of the Federal army was crushed and swept back with dreadful 
slaughter. At Castillian Springs, Tullahoma, Mission Ridge, Buzzard's Boost, 
Etowah River, Peach Tree Creek, siege of Atlanta, and many other places, he 
bore an honorable part. He was at bloody Chickamauga where the right wing of 
the Federals was pierced and rolled upon Thomas the ''rock of Chickamauga" and 
sent flying back to Chattanooga through the mountain gap. At the assault on 
Jonesboro he was detailed by Gen. Jeff. C. Davis to take command of a squad of 
thirty men and remove the wounded. He participated in Sherman's famous march 
to the sea and in the subsequent campaign through the Carolinas. At the battle of 
Jonesboro he received two gunshot wounds and remained for some time in the field 
hospital — the beautiful private residence of some wealthy Georgia fire-eater. 

After his recovery and at the end of the war, he returned to Elkhart and formed 
a i^artnership in the drug business with J. H. Scott in which business he continued 
uutil 1876, and for the last six years of this time spent his leisure moments in 
studying law. In 1878 he was admitted to the bar by Judge Wood, and imme- 
diately entered upon the practice of his profession. He subsequently formed a 
partnership with Hon. O. Z. Hubbell, which was dissolved after one year. In 1890 
and 1891 he was in partnership with his brother, J. S. Dodge, but" since the last 
named year has practiced alone. As a lawj'er he stands at the head of his pro- 
fession. His early training of sincerity and his dominant qualities of persist- 
ence, penetration and logic, sustained by a rare adroitness and by masterly sagacity, 
eminently fit him for the legal profession, of which he is a distinguished ornament. 
He is absolutely self-made. He is a sound Republican, but is not an office-seeker, 
though his gifts fit him for any position of that character. 

Mr. Dodge is probably the most enterprising citizen of Elkhart. He is always 
foremost in the promotion of any measure having for its object the improvement of 
the city, county or State. He is the builder of six of the largest and finest 
business blocks in Elkhart; is at present the owner of four of them, and has 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAXA. 53 

erected more buildings here than any other individual. His residence is one of 
the finest in the city. His faith in the development of Elkhart led him into the 
real estate business. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the G. A. 
R. In 1865 he was united in marriage with Miss Florence M. Conn, a sister 
of Hon. C. G. Conn, and by her has three children: Charles H., Edith M. and 
Ralph. He was married a second time, in 1891, to Nannie E. Brown. 

James S. Dodge, born in Morrow county, Ohio, August 24, 1846, accompanied 
his parents to Elkhart county in 1849. Charles Dodge, his father, a native of New 
York, settled in Ohio while yet it was the frontier; while Melissa (Shaw) Dodge, his 
mother, a native of Pennsylvania, came with her parents to Ohio in pioneer days. 
In 1848 the family removed from Ohio to Elkhart county, where the mother died in 
Baugo township in 1850, and the father in Cleveland township in 1856. Of their 
five children three are living, namely: Henry C, James S. , and Pelig S. — the latter 
of Stanton, Mich. James S. Dodge returned to his native county in Ohio immedi- 
ately after his father's death, and there remained with relatives, working on the 
farm or attending school until 1863. Maryland and Pennsylvania felt the tread of 
Lee's magnificent army. The whole North was aroused, and every regiment in the 
field was soon recruited. In June Mr. Dodge enlisted in Company M, Third Ohio 
Cavalry, and joined the regiment at Chattanooga, Tenn., September 18, the day 
before Bragg attacked Gen. Rosecrans at Chickamauga, Ga. He found himself 
in the midst of war with the spirit of a soldier; but without a soldier's drill or 
knowledge of military life. He participated in that battle, and later in the san- 
guinary affairs at Missionary Ridge, Rocky-faced Ridge, Snake Creek Gap and 
every other field where the fiag of the Third Ohio Cavalry was seen, from Chat- 
tanooga to Atlanta — Big Shanty, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek and the 
battles arouad Atlanta being the principal engagements. When Atlanta was lost to 
the Confederate cause, the victorious brigade, to which the Third Ohio Cavalry was 
attached, returned to Nashville and took part in the last fight there, December 15- 
16, 1864, when the Federals, under Thomas, defeated the Confederates under Hood. 
The brigade was employed for a time in the pursuit of Hood's scattered and flying 
troops, riding as far as Selma, Ala., thence to Columbus, Ga., and on to Macon, 
where the regiments forming the brigade were disbanded in July, 1865, and the men 
sent forward to Nashville to receive honorable discharge. Mr. Dodge did not escape 
the hardships and dangers of those terrible days. At Chickamauga he received a 
sabre wound, and in the rear of Atlanta a second and more serious one; but his 
youth and sturdy constitution were equal to hardships and wounds. He enlisted as 
a private, and rose to be orderly sergeant toward the close of the war. At Farm- 
ington, Tenn., his horse was killed under him; but he jumped on a riderless Confed- 
erate horse and rejoined his command in twenty minutes. Returning to Elkhart in 
September, 1865, he entered the high school for one term and received a teacher's 
certificate in November following. The two succeeding winters he had charge of a 
school in Penn township, St. Joseph county. Early in 1866 he began the study of 
medicine under Dr. R. J. Haggerty. For three years this study, attending lectures 
at the University of Michigan and teaching school occupied his time and attention, 
and on March 1, 1869, he graduated from the medical department of the university 
and at once entered on his professional career in Elkhart county. For sixteen years 
he was a well-known and successful physician, until rheumatism, contracted at 
Gravelly Springs, Ala., during the war, made the duties of a physician almost im- 
possible for him to observe. In 1883-4 he devoted his leisure hours to law studies, 
and in 1884 was admitted to the bar of Elkhart county and subsequently to the bar 
of the State Supreme Court. In 1892 he became the candidate of his district for 
Congressional honors. His long residence among the people of the Thirteenth Con- 
gressional District of Indiana, his knowledge of them and his sympathy with them all 
pointed him out as one who, if elected, would have made an able representative. He 
was unsuccessful at the polls, but made one of the most vigorous canvasses ever 



54 ITCTOIilAL AND DlOGRAl'IllCAI. 

o nducted in the district. In May, 1875, he married Miss Jeannette J. Peck, a na- 
tveof New York. Tlieir son, Jamie S., was born July 2, 1876, and their daugh- 

er, Beruice, June 1, 1884. The family worship in the English Protestant Episco- 
pal Church. Mr. Dodge organized Harrison Cathcart Post 96, G. A. E., and was 
elected first commander. Throughout northern Indiana he aided in the estal)lish- 
ment of many posts of this excellent military order. He is a sound stump speaker, 
and every two years makes the round of the Thirteenth District, meeting old friends 
'and telling to them some wholesome political truths. With all his attention to 
Grand Army and political affairs, he loves his home and family circle. With the 
rich and poor he is the same genial gentleman, who knows humanity, honors its suc- 
cesses and sympathizes with its failures. Liberality and benevolence are character- 
istic of the man. He ispractical in everything, as shown liy his entering the high 
school after serving as a soldier and changing ]irofessious in ISS-I. He studies cause 
audefFect closely, and his conclusious are reliable. 

Charles H. Winchester, banker. This intelligent and e.xperienced man of 
affairs of Elkhart, Ind. , is a representative of that sturdy race, the Scotch, which has 
contributed so much to the thrift, the industry and prosperity of this country. He 
was born in Dutchess couuty, N. Y. , January 14, 1837, a son of David and 
Harriet (Andrus) Winchester, natives of New York State. The paternal grandfather, 
Aiuariah Winchester, was a soldier in the war of 1812 and by trade was a hatter, 
which calling he pursued with profit to himself and to the satisfaction of his patrons. 
The father of the subject of this sketch was a tanner and currier, and in the conduct 
of his affairs was no less successful than was his father, but he unfortunately experi- 
enced some heavy losses, and in order in a measure to retrieve them he emigrated to 
the (then) wilds of Michigan, and for twelve years thereafter conducted an hotel at 
Allen, Hillsdale couuty. Succeeding this he returned to a farm on which the remain- 
der of his life was spent. Of six children born to himself and wife four are living 
at the pi-eseut time: Andrew, who resides in Chicago: Charles H.; Amariah, who 
resides on the old homestead in Michigan, and a daughter, Maria, who resides in 
Pataha City, Wash. The patrimony which Charles H. Winchester inherited from 
his ]>arents was not sufficient to enable him to begin the battle of life with flattering 
prospects of building up a large fortune, but he inherited a good constitution and 
sufficient energy, industry and push to enalde him to successfully battle with the 
worlJ, in which he was aided to some extent by having received a practical education 
in the common schools. He was seven years of age when his parents located in 
Michigan, and until he was eighteen years of age he assisted his father in and about 
the hotel, but at the end of that time he took charge of the farm which his father 
owned and conducted with success until he was twenty-two years of age, when he 
vacated in favor of his younger brother and entered a store which was owned by 
another brother with whom he remained as a clerk for about eighteen months. Owing 
to clo-ie confinement in this establishment, his health began failing him and he turned 
his attention to other pursuits for some time and eventual!}' regained his former 
vigor. In December, 1861. he purchased the remnants of a grocery store, which 
consisted principally of old boxes, barrels and scales, for which he paid $112, going 
in (^ebt for the same. He then made a trip to Toledo to purchase goods and also 
went in debt there to the amount of §163, the gentleman of whom he made his pur- 
chases being an old acquaintance and a personal friend. In connection with this 
establishment he conducted a lunch room until the spring of 1862, and succeeded in 
making some money. He then went to New Y'^ork City, where he made quite a heavy 
purchase of Avy goods, including boots and shoes, and for some twenty-five years 
thereafter conducted a general mercantile store, during which time he built up a 
record for fair business dealing, energy and perseverance which has not been sur- 
passed, and seldom equaled, by any business man of Elkhart county. In addition 
to this, in connection with his father-in-law, Goodwin Howard, he was engaged in 
the purchase and sale of stock, and for a number of years they were the most 



MEMOIR.'i OF IXDIAXA. 55 

extensive dealers iu the coiiaty. In 1879 they purchased a stock of hardware, which 
was well supplied with a stock of agricultural implements, and he conducted this 
successfully in connection with his general store. In 1886 he disposed of bofh his 
stores and took up his residence in Elkhart, where he assumed the duties of president 
of the First National Bank, which position he has filled with distinguished ability 
up to the present time. Since 1872 he has been a stockholder in Hillsdale First 
National Bank, and in 1883 was made president of the Quincy First National Bank, 
which position he still retains. The bank with which he is connected is a firmly 
established institution, is conducted in the most creditable manner and is a great 
acquisition to the county. Mr. Winchester has never had any political aspirations, 
but has always attended strictly to his business, and as a result is one of the sub- 
stantial men of the county and is in independent circumstances. For fourteen 
years he was treasurer of the Hillsdale County Agricultural Society, known as the 
best county society in the State, is president of the Union Building & Loan 
Association and treasurer of the Elkhart & Western Railroad. He is a well-known 
member of the A. F. & A. M. In 1S60 he was married to Miss Harriet \V. 
Howard, of Allen, Mich., by whom he has one child: Nellie J., wife of W. H. 
Knickerbocker, who is cashier of the Fii'st National Bank of Elkhart. Personally 
Mr. Winchester is one of the most popular of men, but is of a modest and retiring 
disposition and does not seem to value himself at his true worth. 

Hon. Oliver Perry Morton, deceased. No other man has ever been more 
renowned and honored in Indiana, none has ever attained so warmly the affection 
of the people, and, of all those born within her borders, none have contributed so 
largely to the honor and dignity of the State as the subject of this sketch. Born 
August 4, 1823, in Wayne county, Ind. , he was the son of James T. and Sarah 
(Miller) Morton. His youth and early manhood gave no evidence of his future 
greatness, but on the contrary was of a similar character to that of thousands of 
other poor boys of that day. At Miami College, Oxford, Ohio, where he completed 
his schooling, he acquired the distinction of being the best debater in the college, 
and after a two years' course he began the study of law at Indianaj)olis and was 
admitted to the bar in 1847. Five years after that time he was appointed circuit 
judge by the governor, but he preferred the more active career of a practitioner to 
that of wearing the judicial robes. Until 1860 he was in active practice and during 
this time became celebrated as one of the ablest advocates ever produced by the State. 
Until 1854 he was a Democrat, but was radically opposed to the extension of slav- 
ery. He became a Republican upon the organization of that party and iu 1856 was 
one of the three delegates sent from Indiana to the Pittsburg convention. This 
same year he was nominated by the Republicans, by acclamation, for the governor- 
ship, and although defeated at the polls, he was elected to preside in the hearts of 
his countrymen as the ideal statesman. He never appealed to men's passions, but 
always to their intellect and reason, and whether in attack or defense proved himself a 
ready and powerful debater. From this campaign of 1856, unsuccessful though it 
was, Mr. Morton's popularity in the State is dated and from this time forth he 
became the recognized leader of the Republican party in Indiana. In 1860 he was 
nominated for lieuteuautgovernor, with Hon. H. S. Lane for governor, with the 
distinct understanding that, if the party was successful, Mr. Lane should be sent 
to the United States Senate and Mr. Morton become governor. The election of the 
Republican ticket was followed by the prompt fulfillment of this understanding, and 
thus, at the early age of thirty-seven years, Mr. Morton became governor of Indi- 
ana. It is said that "great emergencies make great men," and as it so did iu the 
case of Gen. Grant, it likewise did in Gov. Morton's case. Like a black thunder- 
cloud athwart the horizon, the secession movement loomed balefully over the polit- 
ical sky and threatened the disruption of the Union. Gov. Morton, upon taking his 
seat, found himself supported by a loyal majority, but, to the shame of Indiana, he 
was confronted by a secret, active, unscrupulous minorit}', whose sympathy was O'^xs. 



56 PICTORIAL ANB BIOORAPHIGAL 

only with the secession movement, but whose active aid and assistance were extended 
to the disloyalists. In the face of these obstacles he was the first governor to 
proffer President Lincoln troops, and through his personal pledge was enabled to 
raise funds for the prosecution of the war which a disloyal Legislature refused doing. 
As "war governer" Mr. Morton was perfection, and taking it all the way through 
his two terms as governor were of such a brilliant character as to call forth the admira- 
tion of every I'eading man in the nation. The Legislature elected in 1866 made him 
one of Indiana's United States senators, and he was again chosen to this position 
upon the expiration of his first term. His readiness in debate, his keen, analytical 
miud and his wonderful ability made him one of the foremost men in the Senate 
chamber and enhanced his popularity as a national character. He was a prominent 
ciiudidate for the presidential nomination before the Cincinnati convention that nom- 
inated President Hayes, and in 1870 he was offered the English mission by Presi- 
dent Grant but declined the position. No name shines with brighter luster in the 
history of our county than that of Gov. Morton. He died November 1, 1877. 

NoKMAN Sage is an experienced banker and capitalist of Elkhart, and is devot- 
ing his attention to a calling that is acknowledged to be the first and most important 
thing to give impetus to business. Banking is the lubricant of the engine of 
mercantile life, and when properly managed is also the governor and safety valve. 
A fine example of this is seen in the St. Joseph Valley State Bank, of which Mr. 
Sage is the president, a position he has held almost from the time of its organiza- 
tion, and has proved himself to be an energetic, active and reliable officer. Like 
his worthy brother, he was born in Chautauqua county, N. T. , March 6. 1819, but 
his parents, Moses and Nancy (Goldsmith) Sage, were natives of Vermont, from 
which State the father enlisted in the war of 1812. In early life he followed the 
healthful, independent and happy life of a farmer, but afterward turned his atten- 
tion to merchandising, and in 183-1 came to Cass county, Mich. , thinking to 
better his financial condition, where he purchased a mill power, which he carried on 
in connection with merchandising, until his death in 1862. At the time of his 
removal to what was then the wilds of Michigan, Norman was about fourteen years 
of age, and up to that time had received such education as the schools of Fredonia, 
N. Y., afforded, but upon reaching Adamsville, Mich., the principal part of his time 
was devoted to assisting his father and, as above stated, when he had attained his 
majority, he became his business partner, and bent all his energies to the task of 
cancelling his father's obligations, and in due course of time their efforts were 
crowned with success. Although this school was a rather rough one, it was a most 
thorough one, and taught him to be self-reliant, and he learned lessons of industry, 
frugality and honesty, that were the stepping stones to his success in later years. 
The firm was at first linown as Moses Sage & Sons, but after the father's demise it 
was changed to M. G. & N. Sage, and remained such until about 1868. Mr. Sage 
and his brother conducted their affairs in a manner peculiarly their own, and dur- 
ing the forty-five years that they were business associates, they never kept an 
account against the other, but would take what they required out of their stock. 
They followed this plan to their mutual satisfaction until about six years ago, when 
they decided to conduct their affairs in a more methodical and business-like manner. 
Their business relations were most harmonious, and they were among the prominent 
men of affairs of Elkhart, and their whole lives from boyhood up, in every walk, 
whether social, political, or in business pursuits, were but exemplifications of the 
noble characteristics, honor, truth and civility. Norman Sage has ever been a warm 
espouser of any enterprise that has commended itself to his excellent judgment, 
and as a business man, his commercial instincts are keen and far-seeing. He 
possesses much tact, is an affable, thorough gentleman, and in him Elkhart ]iossesses 
a public spirited, enterprising and law-abiding citizen. He has given his attention 
to banking since 1874, but aside from the duties of this position he has found time 
to devote to other pursuits also, and has been treasurer of the City Gas Company 



MEMOIRS OF INDI.\JSfA. 57 

for about eighteen years; was treasurer of the Elkhart Starch Works during its 
existence, and treasurer of the Straw Board Company during its existence. In his 
early life he was the owner of extensive lands in Michigan, and in that State is still 
the owner of a magnificent farm, but has placed its management in the hands of 
others. For a number of years he was treasurer of the Ball & Sage Wagon Com- 
pany, is a stockholder in the Globe Tissue Paper Company, the City Gas Company 
and, in fact, has been prominently identified with the progress of the city in almost 
every way, and has been enthusiastic in aiding causes in any way tending to its advance- 
ment. In 1841 Mr. Sage was married to Miss Juno A. Adams, by whom he became the 
father of one son living, Charles S., and after her death he espoused Miss Eliza J. 
Adams, in 1859, to which union two children were given: Frank A. , who is assistant 
cashier of the St. Joseph Valley Bank, and Jennie G. Mr. Sage is a member of the 
order of Chosen Friends and the Eoyal Arcanum. He has a beautiful, comfortable 
and tasteful home, where it is his delight to welcome his numerous friends, and the 
generous and true-hearted, yet unostentatious hospitality displayed is thoroughly 
appreciated by all who gather beneath his roof. 

E. A. Campbell was born in New York City, October 20, 1838. His parents, 
Augustus and Mary (Conklin) Campbell, the former a native of New Jersey and 
the latter of New York City, claim an American ancestry antedating the Revolution. 
The Campbells are descended from the Irish legionaries, the Scots, who drove out 
the Picts, or Cruithne, from Scotland and took possession of northern Britain in the 
sixth century. The Conklins are of Dutch descent, the first of the name in America 
settling on the Island of New Amsterdam. It is related that Cornelius Campbell, 
the great-uncle of Augustus, captured a horse from the British at Trenton, N. J., which 
he at once presented to General Washington. Matthias Cambell, father of Augus- 
tus, a professor of music, died in New Jersey. His father in-law (Conklin) was a 
chair-mater in New York. Augustus Campbell moved to New York in his youth, 
and became a contractor and builder, carrying on work in that city and Brooklyn, 
until his death, September 15, 1887. He was twice married, first to a daughter of 
Preserved Fish, of New York, to whom one son was born, and secondly to Miss 
Conklin, the mother of the subject of this sketch. 

E. A. Campbell was ediicated in his native city. In 1855 he accompanied his 
uncle, Isaac Ammerman, to St. Joseph, Mich. Finding employment in a saw mill 
there, he worked for two years, when he received injuries which required treatment 
at the hands of the able surgeons in New York City. After his recovery he 
located in Rahway, N. J., and learned the carriage-trimmer's trade in the shop of 
his uncle, William Jewell. A term of two years there closed his career in the East; 
for he turned his steps toward the setting sun, and without money, worked his way 
on the Erie Canal to Buffalo. Thence he set out for Michigan, an-ived at Kala- 
mazoo, worked at his trade until 1865, when he located at Elkhart, Ind. In 1869 he 
established his carriage shops, which are still carried on by him with his son, Edward 
F. Campbell, manager. In 1886 Mr. Campbell was elected city treasurer, an 
office which he has held continuously down to the present time. He declined renomi- 
nation in the year 1892; but was a candidate for the county treasuryship. His 
record as city treasurer is not only without reproach, but it is also superior to 
that of any predecessor in the office. This fact is known and appreciated; so that the 
higher county position will be his if nominated by the convention for that office. 
He is prominent in Pythian circles and in the order of Chosen Friends, who elected 
him delegate to the Supreme Council, held at Washington, D. C, in September, 
1890. He aided in organizing the pioneer tire department of Elkhart, and was 
elected chief. In this connection he follows in his father's footsteps; for the name 
of Augustus Campbell is found on the rolls of the fire department of New York and 
Brooklyn — his badge. No. 371. being now in possession of Edward A. 

Mr. Campbell was married to Miss Mattie A, Fosdick, a native of Illinois, Febru- 
ary, 22, 1864. They are the parents of Gertrude M. , and Edward F. He is 



58 PICTORIAL A^'D BIOGUAPUICAL 

credited with being one of the whole-souled men of Elkhart. His interest in the 
welfare of the city has alwaj's been recognized, while his business and social 
methods have placed him in that enviable position, where his word is as good as his 
bond. 

During the latter part of 1892 Mr. Campbell was nominated as a candidate for 
county treasurer on the Democratic ticket held in Goshen, Ind. , and after making a 
short speech the band struck up "The Campbells are coming.'' At the close of 
the campaign it was found that Mr. Campbell was elected by a majority of seventy- 
three, but was counted out on the theory that certain members of the several elec- 
tion boards had not signed the poll-books properly. Mr. Campbell at once appealed 
to the courts and after a hotly contested trial before special Judge Hubbard, of 
South Bend, it was decided that the votes should be counted as cast, which gave Mr. 
Campbell the office of treasurer of Elkhart County. The decision of the judge 
gave univeral satisfaction, both parties assenting. Mr. Campbell is now a resident 
of Goshen and will work hard for the interest of the taxpayers of his county, and 
says that if he can make as good a record as some of his predecessors he will have 
the assurance that the public will be satisfied with his administration. 

C. H. Chase, president of the Review Printing Company, of Elkhart; Ind., is a 
gentleman of marked business ability, and possesses the resourcefulness for which 
the native New Englander has become noted. Set him down where you will, and 
if he does not begin bettering his condition without any unnecessary delay, he will 
be doing violence to the history and traditions of his people, and will be no more 
worthy to be called a son of New England. Certain it is that those who had the 
good fortune to be born in New England, or to be descended from New England 
stock, have attained prominence in whatever section they have located, and certain it 
is also that, however humble their stations in life, they had a knowledge and com- 
prehension of the science of economics peculiar to themselves. They knew the value 
of money, and were masters of the art of multiplying their dollars. They knew 
how to be frugal without being miserly, and could be hospitable and generous with- 
out being wasteful or extravagant. They were models of industry and activity, and 
so uniformly successful in building up comfortable fortunes, as to make the value of 
these qualities to their possessor strikingly apjjarent to one who takes the trouble to 
familiarize himself with the history of the New England people. To this class of 
people belongs C. H. Chase, who was born in Franconia, N. H. , November -t, 
1833, his parents, Joseph C. and Lucretia (Demick) Chase, having also been born 
in the Granite State, and were descended from English stock. Their ancestors 
came to this country in the historic ship, the Mayflower, and some of the cooking 
utensils which were used by them on that vessel are still in possession of the fam- 
ily. The Chases trace their ancestry back eight generations, all of whom were hon- 
ored residents of New England. The maternal grandfather, Benjamin Demick, was 
a soldier in the war of 1812, stationed at Portsmouth, N. H., while the paternal grand- 
father, Paul Chase, was a prominent contractor and merchant but became financially 
involved during the crisis of 1836-7. Joseph C. Chase, his son and the father of the 
subject of this sketch, was also a merchant and at the time of his death was con- 
nected with the Boston Herald, having charge of the advertising department. He 
was at one time considerable of a politician and was in the custom house under James 
Buchanan, but was ousted from that office on account of his Douglas proclivities. 
He died in the city of Boston on the 4th of April, 1859, having been a man of con- 
siderable prominence and a stanch Democrat throughout life. He was the father 
of four sous and one daughter, of which familj' three members are now living: 
Charles H.. George S. and William E. The eldest of these sons, Charles H., was 
a resident of his native place until about seven years of age, at which time he 
was taken to Derby Line, Vt., by his parents, and his education was obtained in 
Stanstead Academy, an institution he attended until he was about fourteen years of 
age. He then entered the office of the Sherbrooke Gazette, of Sherbrooke, Canada, 



MEMOIliS OF INDIANA. 59 

to learn the art of printing, where he continued for about eighteen months, wlien 
he removed with his parents to Cambridge, Mass., and finished his knowledge of 
printing in the book office of that place, which is now known as the Riverside Print- 
ing Establishment, and is noted as one of the leading publishing houses of the 
country. Following this he secured a position on the Boston Cultivator, where he 
remained until he became of age, at which time he gave up his position to follow 
the advice of Horace Greeley and " go west," and he eventually found himself in 
Winona, Minn., where he assumed charge of the Winona Argus, of which he had 
control one year. He returned to Manchester, N. H. , and in connection with Otis 
S. Eastman, purchased an agricultural paper known as the Farmer and Visitor, but 
only continued it a few months, as the investment, did not prove very remunerative. 
Mr. Chase then went west as far as Davenport, Iowa, where he worked for some 
time, thence to Keokuk, Iowa, and while in the latter place was united in marriage 
to Miss Cynthia Parmenter, a native of New Hampshire, who died December 10, 
1863. He removed with his young wife to Cleveland, Ohio, and was there employed 
on the Cleveland Review, in the fall of 1858. In February of the following year, in 
connection with a Mr. Weller, he jjurchased the Elkhart (Indiana) Review. They 
continued the publication of this paper until the following November, when Mr. 
Chase purchased Mr. Weller's interest and continued alone until 1865, when his 
brother, George S., became connected with him. In May, 1871, A. P. Kent bought 
an interest in the paper and it has since been controlled by these two gentlemen. In 
January, 1890, a handsome new brick biiildiug was completed for their occupation, 
and they have now one of the best equipped offices in the State. 

August 15, 1872, the Daily Review was established, and has been continued 
with marked success ever since, its establishment being one of Mr. Kent's ideas. It 
is a very newsy, well-edited sheet, and some valuable information can always be 
gleaned from its columns. Mr. Chase is a gentleman of fine literary attainments, 
and has proven himself to be the right man in the right place. On the 14th of 
November, 1866, he took for his second wife Miss Alice M. Defrees, who has borue 
him four children: Ernest C. ; Charles H., Jr.; Frederick E. and Carrie L. Mr. 
Chase was assistant assessor of internal revenue under President Lincoln, and 
from 1871 to 1873 he was a member of the school board of Elkhart. 

STR.iFF0ED Mason, born in Wyoming county, N. Y. , October 10,1830; is the 
son of John and Lydia (Sweet) Maxon, also natives of New York, whose ancestors 
came from Scotland in colonial days. When patriotism sounded the tocsin for 
revolution, members of this family rushed to the front. The grand father McCabe, 
was one of the first to respond to the call of the republic, and, thirty-six years 
later, when the same beaten enemy returned to conquer the land and crush out 
liberty, John Maxon, named above, was one of the first to join the defenders of the 
Union. The Maxons were farmers in New York State for generations. The parents 
of Strafford, who moved to Indiana years ago, were the pioneers, it is said, of the 
naiue in the West. That patriarchal Quaker preached at intervals in Indiana and 
Michigan, and while in the last named State visiting his daughter, died at a ripe old 
age. John and Lydia Maxon were the parents of nine children. Of that large 
family, four are living, namely: Mrs. Polly Tallman, Friend, Elizabeth and 
Strnfford. 

Strafford Maxon accompanied his parents, brother and sisters, to Elkhart 
county in 1888. The homestead near Elkhart City was his home from that period 
up to 1850, when he made the five months' overland trip to California, in the trail of 
the Argonauts of 1849, and passed three years in the mining camp of Hangtown; 
discovered a gold deposit which proved very valuable, and in 1854, pleased to escape 
the hardships of life among the mines, returned to Elkhart. For the eighteen suc- 
ceeding years he carried on an extensive mercantile house at Elkhart, and then 
established a lumber yard, planing mill, sash, door and blind factory, with which he 
was connected until 1890, and of which he was the owner until 1884. In 1890 he 



(50 PICTORIAL AXD BIOORAPHICAL 

was elected mayor of Elkbavt, and would have been reelected in 189'J had be not 
declined the nomination. For years he was a member of the sciiool board, and by 
earnest, well-directed effort, carried many measures most beneficial to the city 
schools. He also served as city treasurer. 

He is an old Master Mason and a member of the Knights Templar Commandery, 
always taking a deep interest in the work of the lodges, council, chapter and com- 
mandery. 

Mr. Maxon's marriage with Miss Mary A. Stillman took place in 1854. Of their 
live children, three: Ada. Hugh and Emma, are living. The mother died in 1890, 
in the beautiful home at Elkhart. She was a member of the Congregational Church 
there since its establishment, while Mr. JIaxon, also a meml)er, held the oiSce of 
trustee for teu years. Since 1854, when Mr. Maxou returned from California', he 
lost no opportunity of aiding in the advancement of the city he was henceforth to 
make his home. Every progressive measure was supported by him and he was 
rewarded by witnessing Elkhart's advance from a straggling hamlet, near the 
junction of the St. Joseph and Elkhart Eivers, to a prosperous city of great manu- 
facturing industries, large commercial houses, churches, schools, newspaper ofHces, 
and well-ordered societj*. 

Hon. Orrix Z. Hubbell. This well-known resident of Elkhart county, Ind., is 
of a decidedly literary turn of mind, and as an orator is a forcible and convincing 
speaker. His fertile imagination and happy manner of expressing himself has 
placed him second to no other orator in his section of the country, and his logic is 
sound and comprehensive. He is a strong personality which at once commands the 
attention of his hearers, while his wit, mental capacity and penetration are well 
known among his fellows. He is also a writer of ability and his articles abound in 
the same fine qualities which make him the orator that he is, while as a conversa- 
tionalist he is entertaining and vivacious. 

His educational advantages were better than most boys receive and as his tend- 
ency was studious and industrious, he stored his mind with information that would 
be of practical use to him in later years, and was considered precocious by his rela- 
tives and friends. Soon after his Ijirth in Huntington county, Ind., he was taken 
without his consent to Butler, De Kalb county, where his youth was passed. He has 
always been proud of his nativity and has more than once been heard to boast of 
being a "Hoosier. '' In 1873 he walked forth from the high school of Butler as a 
graduate of that institution, and as he had previously formed the determination of 
attending college he at once set about finding employment in order to obtain means 
with which to defray the expenses of a collegiate education. He succeeded in ac- 
complishing his object, but what it cost him of self-denial and mental anxiety will 
never be known to any but himself. His surroundings were peculiar and rather un- 
usual, but he fought his battle bravely and at the end of the, to him, ever memor- 
able four years, he graduated with honor from the University of Indiana, receiving 
the degree of baccalaureus artium. The world was then before him to choose from, 
but first the heavy debt that he had contracted had to be cancelled and he set about 
to accomplish this. 

His literary ability had alreadj' begun to attract attention and upon his return 
to Butler he was tendered the position of editor of the Butler Record, in which 
capacity he served with marked success for several years. He subsequently occu- 
pied the same position on the De Kalb County Bepiiblican and at a still later period 
he became principal of the Monroeville schools and still later superintendent of the 
Butler schools and finally principal of the Bristol schools. In all of these positions 
be distinguished himself as an educator and disciplinarian and as a newspaper man 
he was alive to the current issues of the day and handled bis subjects with an ease, 
grace and finish that could not fail to attract attention. 

In 1882 be came to Elkhart, but between the time of bis graduation and the 
time of his arrival in this section, be bad found time to study law, for which pro- 



MEMOIRS OF IX DIANA. 61 

fessicin lie seemed to have a natural aptitude and a decided inclination. He was liy 
nature fitted for this most difficult of all the learoed professions, and was regularly 
graduated from the law department of Notre Dame University. Although still a 
young man he occupies a leading position at the Indiana bar, and as might have 
been expected, his talents have led him into the arena of politics. In 1888 he was 
nominated for the State Senate and was elected by a majority of 780 votes, leading 
his ticket by 300 votes. He made a wise and energetic committee-man and in the 
work of the chaml)er was so prominent that he received warm praise from political 
frientl and foe alike. 

He has found time to cultivate the social graces, is a Knight Templar, a 
Thirty-second degree Mason, a Knight of Pythias and a prominent Odd Fellow, 
and in the latter lodge and elsewhere has acquired fame as a lecturer. He is the 
attorney for the People's Mutual Benefit Society and for the Fidelity Building & 
Savings Union of Indianapolis. He has a beautiful residence on Beardsley avenue, 
and there, surrounded by his family, his greatest enjoyment is to be had. He has a 
well chosen library and his home surroundings indicate intelligent and refined taste. 
In early manhood he was united in marriage with Miss Cora E. Congdon, of Bristol, a 
beautiful girl, who has made him a devoted wife. Together they went al)r<)ad in 
1887. visited the British Isles and exploreol the romantic ruins and antiquities of 
continental Europe, and upon his return Mr. Hubbell published a small book de- 
scribing his experiences and impressions of life in foreign countries, which is inter- 
esting and instructive. 

Mr. Hubbell's father was a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and was a civil engineer 
by profession. His mother was formerly Miss Sarah A. Zeigler, a native of Tus- 
carawas, Ohio. To them were born four children: Orrin Z.; Clara, wife of P. V. 
Hoffman; Lizzie, wife of William J. Richey, and Ida L. The father was the civil 
engineer for the Detroit, Eel River & Illinois Railway, now the Wabash Railway, 
and also for the Adrian, State Line Railroad, which was not completed. Both 
parents were far above the average in mental and moral attributes and their chil- 
dren inherited many of their best qualities. The paternal grandfather, Jason Hub- 
bell, was a Vermonter. He followed farming, milling and merchandising, and 
while in Cleveland owned a tract of 80 acres there which is now worth millions of 
dollars. Parents, except the mother, and grandparents, after useful lives, jiassed 
away. Mr. Hubbell's ancestors were Revolutionary patriots and also soldiers in the 
war of 1812. His father raised a regiment for the Union army during the civil war; 
but could not himself enter the service owing to physical infirmities, though his two 
brothers, Orson J. and Harris B. went out to light their country's battles. Our 
subject, on the maternal side, had two uncles, James and Benjamin in the same war. 
The former bravely fell with his face to the foe at the bloody battle of Shiloh. Of 
all the members of this family, among soldiers and civilians, toilers at the ])low or 
at the bar, none is better fitted for distinguished public service than Orrin Z. Hub- 
bell, whose life has been one of strict integrity throughout. 

John Cook, director of the First National Bank of Elkhart, Ind,, is a (juiet, 
unpretentious man, whose youth was spent in the country, his time being occupied 
by the healthful and useful pursuit of agriculture. He was born in the old historic 
city of Chillieothe, Ohio, December 3, 1826, being a son of James and Amy 
(Winder) Cook, who were born in Maryland and Philadelphia, Penn., respectively. 
The paternal grandfather. Henry Cook, removed from his native State of Maryland 
to Ohio in 1800, at which time the country was almost wholly unsettled, and the 
woods were inhabited by prowling Ijears and other wild animals, while numerous 
large tribes of Indians obtained an easy living with rod and gun, unmolested by the 
sound of the hunter's axe. He tilled the soil in the vicinity of Chillieothe, and there 
his son James was lirought up and obtained a thorough knowledge of agricultuie. 
In 1830 he pushed farther westward and purchased a tract of laud in the vicinity 
of Goshen, Ind., but later he removed to the town and carried on mercantile pur- 



63 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

snits for a Dumber of years, retiring from the active duties of life a number of years 
before his death, which occiirred in 1854, his wife's death having occurred in 1840. 
Three of their chihiren grew to maturity. Init only two are living at the present 
time, John and Henry. Owing to the primitive condition of the schools of his day, 
John Cook did not obtain a very thorough education, but he possessed a naturally 
line mind, and this he strengthened and enriched b}' contact with the business 
affairs of life, and by keejiing thoroughly posted on the current topics of the day. 
As he was but a youth when he came to Goshen he was brought up in the mercan- 
tile l)usiues-s hy his father, and he and his brother carried on the l>usiness together 
in that town for five years. In 1854 Mr. Cook established the Salem Bank of 
Go.shen in connection with Thomas G. Harrison, which is now a State bank, man- 
aged by John W. Irwin. Mr. Cook conducted this bank in a praiseworthy man- 
ner until 1865, when he went to New York City, and for one year was engaged in 
the flour commission business. In the spring of 1867 he came to Elkhart, Ind., 
and purchased stock in the First National Bank, of which he became cashier, a 
position he retained until he voluntarily resigned and retired from all active bus- 
iness life, yet acting as vice-president, a position he has had for the last ten vears. 
siace which time he has lived in retirement, enjoying the fruits of his well spent 
life, and the competency which his foresight and keen business discernment has won 
him. He still retains stock in the bank and a directorship, but has turned over its 
management into the hands of others. He has been a member of the city council 
two or three terms, and throughout the greater portion of his active life has been 
interested in farming, for he is the owner of 1,5(10 acres of land well adapted for 
the purposes of general farming. Although he has owned land from earl}' man- 
hood, he has never plowed a furrow in his life, this branch of his business affairs 
being altogether in the hands of others. He wooed and won for his wife Miss 
Martha Wiuber, their union taking place in 1848. she being a daughter of James 
A. Winber. In 18S9 Mr. Cook took for his second wife Miss Cora M. Kc^ck, an 
accomplished lady and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, by whom he 
has one child, Charlotte Mae. Mr. Cook is a highly educated man, having had every 
advantage. He is a great reader, an interesting talker, having traveled extensively 
both in this country and the old world, and is popular with all who know him. 

David A. Ireland. The American jjeople not only travel more extensively than 
any other nation, but they patronize to a greater extent the numerous establishments 
for the hire of horses and carriages. There are few enterprises which contribute a 
larger quota to the convenience of the residential and transient public than the 
well appointed livery stable, and one of the most prominent in the city of South 
Bend is that conducted by the firm of Ireland & Son. This firm carries a large ass-ort- 
ment of carriages, buggies, phaetons, etc., in the newest and most fashionable 
styles, and these are constantly on hand for the use of the general public. These 
gentlemen have become widely known and respected and thoroughly understand 
every phase of tbe business. David A. Ireland was born iu New Paris, Preble Co., 
Ohiu, October 15, 1827, and is a son of John F. and Jane L. (Ferguson) Ireland, 
both of Scotch descent. The father was born in Bourbon county, Kv., in 
1801, and when fifteen years of age entered the State of Ohio and settled in Preble 
county, where he was one of the early pioneers. He followed the occupation of a 
farmer, was fairly successful in tbis, and was a man universally respected. He 
held the olfice of justice of the peace and was also county commissioner of Preble 
county for some time. For manj' years a Whig, he at last became a stanch sup- 
porter of Republican principles and continued in sympathy with the same until his 
death, which occurred on the farm where he had first settled. The mother was a 
native of the Blue Grass State and died in Preble county. Ohio, about 1842 The 
subject of this sketch is the eldest of eight children, three of whom are living. 
The country schools afforded him a fair education, and when the time came for him 
to decide on some calling in life, it was but natural perhaps that he should choo.se 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 63 

the oue to which he had beeu reared, farming. He contiuued to till the soil iu 
Preble county until 1873, when he came to South Bend, and since then he has been 
actively engaged in the livery business. The firm of Ireland & Son is well known 
and its members are affable and courteous caterers to the pleasure-loving and bu*^!- 
uess sections of society, and are undeviatingly upright in all their dealings. They 
have one of the best equipped and Ijest appointed livery Ijarns in the city, and are 
thoroughgoing, enterprising business meu. Mr. Ireland espoused the cause of the 
Northern States and in 1862 enlisted in Company C, Fiftieth Ohio Voluntary In- 
fantry, entering the ranks as first lieutenant. Ten months later he was promoted 
to captain at Muldrose Hill, Ky., served two years, and was in many of the promi- 
nent engagements. He participated in the battles of Perryville, Kenesaw Mountain, 
and many minor engagements. His discharge was received at Atlanta, on the field, 
iu 1864, and he then returned to Preble county, Ohio, where he remained until 
1873. He was married in 1S46 to Miss Mary A. Cail, who died in Henry county, 
111., in July, 1867, where he had moved for her health by the advice of physicians. 
After living there one year he had to move back as the climate was unfavorable to 
his children's health. Five children were thefruitsof this union: Warren C, John 
F., David M., Edgar A. and Mary R. Warren C. was born in Randolph county, 
Ind.. iu July, 1847, and is now in business with his father. Mr. Ireland was mai- 
ried again iu December, 1858, and selected his wife in the person of Miss Rebecca 
A. Cail, a sister of his first wife, and a native of Preble county, Ohio. The Cail 
family came originally from Virginia and were early settlers of Preble county, Ohio. 
His second wife was Nancy McCawslin, of Cain Ridge, Ky. To the second mar- 
riage one child was born. T. O. D. Ireland. In politics Mr. Ireland is a Repub- 
lican and a member of the G. A. R. He has been a member of the Christian Chnrch 
fur many years and is one of the excellent men of the city. Warren C. is a member 
of the South Bend Commandery, No. 13, K. T., and was made an Odd Fellow in 
August, 1868, South Bend Lodge, No. 29. While subject resided iu Ohio he was 
occupied in various enterprises. He was engaged in dealing in stock during the 
summer and in winter he conducted a slaughterhouse and packing estalilishmetit. 
He killed mostly hogs. The capacity was 400 hogs per day. He shipped his pork 
to Cincinnati and was thus engaged about six years. He then purchased a tan yard 
and engaged in the boot and shoe business. He conducted the store about three 
years and manufactured excellent goods. He had ten men in his employ most of 
the time. He then engaged in the lime and stone trade and took contracts for 
building cellar walls in various places, and furnished all material. He had two per- 
petual lime kilu burners and usually tired them about the 15th of March and kept 
them burning continually until the 15th of November and burned one carload each 
day. 

CoNKAD LiPHART was bom in Hessen. Germany, December 23, 1833, a son of 
(ieorge and Elizabeth (Bessy) Liphart, who were also natives of the Fatherland. 
Tlie farm on which the Lipharts reside in Germany has been in possession of the 
family for 300 years and was originally purchased from the king of Hessen, who re- 
served the privilege of purchasing it, if he so desired, whenever it should be sold. 
George Lij^hart was an extensive tiller of the soil and was also engaged in burniug 
tile. He was born and reared on the farm that had furnished his people with a sub- 
s'stence for so many years, was married and resided there until his death, which oc 
cirred in 1848. To himself and wife three sous and four daughters were born: 
Elizabeth, who died in Germany; Maria. Elizabeth, Henry, Kate, Conrad and 
George, all of whom are dead with the exception of Conrad and George, who are 
rnsidents of St. Joseph county, Ind., the hitter's home being in the rural districts. 
Although he was reared to a farm life, Conrad learned the cabinet maker's trade 
when he was a young man, serving an apprenticeship of two years and a half, at 
the expiration of which time he decided to come to America and the early part of 
1851 found him in Sanduskv, Ohio, where he remained four years working at his 



64 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

trade. Following this be came to South Bend in 1855, where he has continued to re- 
side up to the present. He worked faithfully and per-severiugly at his trade until 
New Year's day, IfeifiO, when he opened an establishment of his own with a borrowed 
capital of .$50, for the people with whom he had been working failed in business, 
and he thus lost the wages he had earned. These were the conditions which prompted 
him to commence business for himself and never did he regret so doing. For the 
lirst three months the outlook for the new establishment was by no means flattering, 
as the actual cash sales amounted to only §15.30, but Mr. Liphart knew no such 
word as fail, and his energy and indomitable will carried him over this trying time 
and he soon found himself on a smooth sea and floating with a prosperous tide. 
Three years later his business had assumed larger proportions and he purchased 
the furniture store of Henry Miller, which he enlarged from time to time as his 
business demanded, and in 1865 rented a factory for the manufactiu'e of furniture, 
wholesale and also ordered jobs which he carried on in connection with his 
wholesale and retail sale of furniture and undertaking goods. This business he 
conducted successfully for many years, or until he retired from active business pur- 
suits in 1890, as above mentioned. He has a hand.some, commodious and comfort- 
able brick residence, in which he is passing his days after a useful and well-spent 
business career. As he started out to win fame and fortune for himself in 1860 
with a borrowed capital, his achievements during the thirty years of his business 
career are something wonderful and should serve as an incentive to all young men 
to ever push onward and upward. Although he labored under the disadvantage of 
being a foreigner and imperfectly speaking the English language, it was soon dis- 
covered that he was honest and upright in all his business transactions and was de- 
sirous of pleasing his patrons, and as a natural result, he was soon doing a profit- 
able btisiness. He was married in South Bend, March 27, 1856, to Margaret Smith, 
daughter of George and Catherine (Keefer) Smith, who were native Germans, but 
came to America about the year 1822, settling first in Ohio where they resided until 
about 1840, at which time they took up their residence in St. Joseph coimty, Ind., 
where they eventually passed from life. To Mr. and Mrs. Liphart nine children 
have been born: Frances L. (deceased), Clara M., Charles H. , Edward (deceased), 
Alice, Anna, Eva (deceased), Cora (deceased), and Nettie. During Mr. Liphart's 
residence in South Bend he has never aspired to or held office of any kind but has 
been a very clever student of his business interests, which, without doubt, ac- 
counts for the eminent success of his enterprise. The church affiliations of himself 
and wife have always been with the German Methodist Church, which church he 
was instrumental in organizing in 1877, and is its oldest member. He assisted in 
the organization of the Evangelical Church in 1855, but in 1877 seven families left 
that church in order to restore peace, complications of a serious nature having 
arisen, and they attached themselves to the Methodi.'it Church. Mr. Liphart has 
been Superintendent of the Sunday-school and class leader, also trustee of his 
church. He has been an earnest worker for the Christian cause, and since pro- 
fessing religion, has kept the faith. 

Chjirles H. Liphart is a wide-awake citizen of South Bend, Ind., and as he has 
resided here ever since hisbirth, which occurred on the 26th of January, 1862, the people 
have every opportunity to judge of his character and qualifications as a man of affairs, 
and naught has ever been said derogatory to his honor. In the public schools of 
his native city and in the Berea College he acquired a thorough education, and upon 
obtaining suitable years he entered the furnitirre and undertaking establishment of 
his father, and was given an interest in the business which, by judicious manage- 
ment, assumed considerable proportions. In March, 1890, the head of the firm 
disposed of his interest and retired from the business and shortly after Charles H. em- 
barked in the undertaking busine.ss on his own responsibility, a business for which 
he is peculiarly adapted, for he is reliable, sympathetic and experienced. The voca- 
tion of an undertaker is essentially a very delicate one, and it involves for its sue- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 65 

cessful prosecution peculiarly important qualifications which but comparatively few 
individuals possess and it is only by experience as well as natural aptitude that a 
man is able to discharge his duty in that relation to the entire and unqualified 
satisfaction of those most directly interested. This Mr. Liphart has succeeded in 
doing, and he is already reaping a rich reward in compensation for his careful at- 
tention to his duties. In June, 1891, he associated with himself George Beyler and 
the business is now carried on under the firm name of Liphart & Beyler. Mr. Lip- 
hart w'as married on the 25th of December, 188S, to Emma Flinn. who was born on 
the '2 St b of August, 1S67 to John E. and Charlotte (Jones) Flinn. Mr. Liphart is 
a member of the A. F. & A. M. , in which he is a Knight Templar, and politically 
he is a Republican. 

L. H. Johnson is a member of the well-known firm of Johnson & May, marble 
and stone dealers. South Bend, Ind., and since the establishment of the business in 
1887 by Mr. Johnson it has made rapid and substantial progress, and as business 
men the members of this firm are popular and respected. Mr Johnson is a native of 
the Empire State, his natal j'ear being 1852, being a sou of H. and Cynthia (Pad- 
dock) Johnson, the former's death occurring in New York State in 1884. In the 
year 1887 L. H. Johnson came to South Bend, Ind., which place has since been his 
home and where he has built up a good business and made many warm friends. He 
has proved himself to be a practical and progressive man of affairs, and although 
he is shrewd and keen in his bargains, he has never been known to take advantage 
of any one and what he has he has the satisfaction of knowing has been honestly 
earned. He looks after the interests of his customers with zealous care, and 
guarantees all orders to be tilled promptly and satisfactorily. He is of a social dis- 
position and is a Knight Templar in that worthy order, the A. F. & A. M. He 
has always supported the meastu-es of the Republican party, for he believes them to 
be right, and from his business interests has found time to be an active participant 
in all worthy projects. Miss Genevieve Pettinger, of Shiloh, Ohio, became his wife 
in 1877, and to their union one child has been given — Dean Milton who was born in 
1879. Mrs. Johnson is a daughter of M. R. and Susanna Pettenger, and is an 
intelligent and amiable lady and like her husband has many warm personal friends. 

V. N. May. Prominent among the many reliable business houses of South 
Bend, Ind., the establishment in which Mr. Ma^' is a partner is one of the foremost, 
and that it is appreciated as such can be readily seen by the large patronage they 
command. This house deserves honorable mention in this volume, not only on ac- 
count of the high character of his management but also on account of the 
superiority of its stock. Mr. May is a native of Jefferson county, "Wis., where he 
first saw the light of day in 1856. His early daj's were unmarked by any unusual 
occurrence, suffice it is say that he received a fair education in the common schools 
and that he early learned to know what hard work meant. Since 1887 Mr. May has 
been one of the substantial citizens of South Bend, Ind., and almost immediately 
after locating here he formed a partnership with Mr. Johnson in the marble and 
stone business, and in the conduct of this business has been remarkably successful. 
He was married in 1880 to Miss Catherine Heimann, of Ontario, Canada, who died 
in 1883 after having become the mother of one child, whom they named Albert. In 
1885 Mr. May took for his second wife Miss Minnie Meyers, of Norwalk, Ohio, 
daughter of Dominick Meyers, and this union has resulted in the birth of four chil- 
dren : Leo, Carl, Frank and Marie. All the members of this family are worthy 
members of the Catholic Church and politically Mr. May has always been a Demo- 
crat, although he has never been a political aspirant. 

George H. Stover, treasurer of St. -Joseph county, Ind. The important posi- 
tion of county treasurer is filled in a most admirable manner by George H. Stover, 
who has made a beau ideal public officer, for he is not only faithful, efficient and 
energetic, but he is accommodating and courteous to all with whom he comes in con- 
tact. The energy and perseverance of his character have nowhere a better field for 



66 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

manifestation thaa official work, and his impress on this sphere of public duty will 
long be felt. He is a product of Botetourt county, Va., where he was born July 
31, 1839, of which State his parents, Jacob and Sarah (Noffsinger) Stover, were 
also residents. The Stovers are of German lineage and upon coming to this coun- 
try first settled in Pensylvania, but later took up their residence in Virginia. Some 
of the early members of the family were participants in the war for independence. 
The paternal grandfather of George H. Stover was a physician and died in Vir- 
ginia. Jacob Stover was a farmer by calling, and in the fall of 1850 started overland 
westward, his intention being to locate in St. Joseph county, and after the " prom- 
ised land" was reached he purchased a farm of 240 acres in Clay township, on 
which some small improvements had been made in the way of clearing and the 
erection of a log cabin. He is still the owner of this farm although he makes his 
home in South Bend with his son, George H. He was trustee of his township 
several terms. Of eight children born to himself and wife only three are living at 
the present time: George H., William C. and Frank P. The two last mentioned 
are in Ft. Collins, Colo. George H. Stover was in his twelfth year when he came 
to this county, and although he had jareviously attended school, the greater part of 
his education was acquired in this county in the schools of South Bend and Misha- 
waka. Two years were also spent in Franklin College, Indiana, in which institu- 
tion he made a good record for himself. In 1859 he crossed the plains with a party 
of gold seekers, the journey thither occupying almost six mouths. They stopped 
at Chico, Cal., and there Mr. Stover secured a school and taught two winter terms. 
During his vacations he kept books for a large lumber firm. In 1861 he returned 
home via the Isthmus of Panama and in due course of time landed in the city of 
New York. He at once proceeded to South Bend, in the vicinity of which he 
engaged in farming and followed this occupation with success until 1886, when he 
accepted the position of deputy county treasurer. In 1888 he was elected to the 
office of treasurer, and was honored with a re-election in 1890. While living in 
Clay township on his farm he held every office that could be given him, in fact, has 
held some office or other the greater portion of his life. As an official he has given 
good satisfaction and has become very popular with the masses in general, and his 
party in particular. He has always labored in the interests of democracy, but is by 
no means radical, on the contrary is quite conservative. His first majority when 
elected to office was 195 and his second 1,005, which was given him gratuitously and 
without a particle of canvassing on his part, for he never left his office for this pur- 
pose. It was wholly and purely owing to his efficiency and popularity as a man and 
in this respect Mr. Stover has every reason to be gratified and pleased. In 1865 he also 
went to Virginia City, Ida., via Salt Lake City, in company with his brother, AV. C. , 
on a freighting expedition with ox teams, hauling groceries and provisions, disposing 
of the same in the fall of the same year, and returning to his home in St. Joseph county. 
At the general election of 1892 he was elected a member of the Lower House of Rep- 
resentatives of the General Assembly of the State of Indiana, fifty-eighth se.s8ion, 
and is now occupying a seat in that body, which is in session at the present time. 
He still owns his fine farm in Clay township, but since entering upon his official 
duties has rented it. In 1861 Miss Sophia A. Meyer became his wife and to them 
a son and daughter have been given: William C, deputy treasurer to his father, 
and Ella V. Mr. Stover is a member of St. Joseph Lodge, No. 45, of the A. F. & 
A. M. 

Elmer Crockett is the very efficient official whom Uncle Sam has placed in 
charge of his interests at South Bend, lud., and to say that he has performed his 
duties in a capable, faithful and honorable manner would be but bestowing credit 
where credit is due. In Penn township of the county in which he now resides he 
first saw the light September 1, 1844, his parents being Shellim and Louisa (Ire- 
laud) Crockett, the former of whom was born in Kentucky and the latter in Ohio. 
This family is distantly related to the well-known Davy Crockett, and was among 



3IE3IOIRS OF I y BIAS A. 67 

the first families to settle on blue grass soil. The father emigrated from Lexing- 
ton, Ky., to Ohio in his boyhood, and stopped for a short time near New Paris, 
where he was eventually married, and in 1S31 came to St. Joseph county Ind., by wagon 
and on horseback. He entered a tract of land which was in its wild state, iu Peun 
township, on which he erected a primitive log cabin, and there his early married 
life was spent. Wild game was very plentiful at that time, and the red man's 
face was a familiar object. Mr. Crockett often ran races with them in the trading 
point at what is now South Bend. He greatly improved his farm and made it his 
home until the death of his wife in 184S. when he removed to South Bend, where 
his home has since beea. He was in business in this city for a number of years, 
has identified himself with its every interest, and is considered one of its most 
substantial and worthy residents. He has now reached the age of four-score 
years, aad although the snows of many winters have whitened his hair, his mind 
shows but little the ravages of time. He crossed the plains twice to California, 
where he was engaged in mining for some time. He is now the only surviving 
member of a family of thirteen children born to his parents. He became the father 
of seven children, three of whom are living: Garrett, a resident of Oregon: Elmer, 
and Mrs. N. D. Walter of this city. In the schools of South Bend and Mishawaka 
the subject of this sketch received his early education, which he tinished in the 
Northern Indiana College. He was a strong supporter of the ITnion cause during 
the war, and in 1864 his name could be found on the rolls of the One Hundred and 
Thirty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until the cessation 
of hostilities, holding the rank of corporal. He was mustered out of the service at 
Indianapolis and returned to his home at Mishawaka, where he began learning the 
trade of a printer in the olfice of the Mishawaka S/iferjjr/^e. After serving his al- 
lotted time he came to South Bend and for two years was foreman of the Register of- 
fice, and for two years was one of its proprietors under the firm name of Beal, Miller 
& Co. In March. 1S72, he and Mr. A. B. MUler retired from the Register and formed 
the Tribune Printing Company, and since that date Mr. Crockett has been vice- 
president of the establishment and one of its stockholders. His attention was de- 
voted to the successful conduct of this business until he received his appointment 
of postmaster in 1890. He is identified with several building and loan associa- 
tions, has been vice-president of the South Bend Building and Loan Association 
since its organization, and in numerous other ways has manifested much interest in 
the progress and development of the town. He is past commander of Auten Post 
No. 8 of the G. A. R.. is a member of the A. F. & A. M. , in which he has been 
grand high priest of the Royal Arch Masons of the State of Indiana during the 
years of 1889-90. In December, 1S6S. he was married to Miss Anna M. Miller, a 
daughter of the late es-SheriflF B. F. Miller, and of the five children born to them 
three are now living: Charles E.. Ethel M. and Donald B. He and his wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church, and he is superintendent of the Sabbath- 
school. He has numerous friends. 

SAimEL W. STUDEBiKEB. A livery stable is a most essential institution, both for 
pleasure and convenience. To be able to command at any moment a horse and rig 
for a drive in the country or for business or other purposes, is a privilege the value 
of which can not be too highly estimated. Foremost among the liveries of South 
Bend, or those of the State, is the well known resort of Samuel W^. Studebaker. This 
stable, from the large business it does, not only exemplifies the importance of 
the town, but reflects credit upon its management. Mr. Studebaker was bom in 
South Bend, Ind., April 2, 185-1, and is a son of Henry Studebaker, one of the 
founders of the Studebaker wagon works, and Susan (Studebaker) Studebaker. The 
original of this notice grew to manhood on the farm, and was his fathers active as- 
sistant from the time he was old enough to make himself useful until his father en- 
gaged ia other enterprises. He was educated in the common schools, and subse- 
quently entered Notre Dame University, where he remained about one year. In the 



68 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

spring of 1878 he began farming on bis own account, on his uncle P. E. Studebak- 
er's farm of 6-tO acres, now this city, and here he remained for twelve years. 
He was engaged in stock-raising and trading also. In 1890 he engaged in the 
livery business in South Bend, and has carried on this business ever since. He 
has one of the largest and best equipped livery barns — 6f5xl50 feet — in the 
State, and thoroughly understands everything connected with his business. Al- 
though he has been in this business only about two years, he has met with flatter- 
ing success, and is thoroughgoing and enterprising. He has about $7,000 in- 
vested. The city has its full quota of vigorous, enterprising, thoroughgoing 
business men. whose popularity is based upon both their social qualities and 
their well-known integrity and business activity, but none among them is more 
popular or better liked by those who have dealings with him than Mr. Studebaker. 
In his political views he affiliates with the Republican party, and socially be is a 
member of the order of Maccabees. On March 20, 1878, Mr. Studebaker was 
married to Miss Mary E. Martin, of St. Joseph county, and they have one son, 
Warren H. 

John Elder, one of the pioneer settlers of the city of South Bend, Ind. , was born in 
Linlithgowshire, Scotland, on the 11th of November, 1808, to Robert and Jeanette 
(Ormistuu) Elder, who were also born on Scottish soil. Robert Elder was born January 
1, 178-!, was a farmer by occupation, and had the distinction of living to the 
advanced age of ninety years, his death occiirring on the 15th of April, 1871. His 
wife died July 23, 1860, having borne her husband the following children: James, 
John, Robert, Thomas. William, Alexander, David, Jeanette, Christian, Margaret 
and Marion. In the land of his birth John Elder learned the trade of a tailor, at 
which calling he worked until the 15th of April, 1833, when he started for America, 
taking passage on the vessel "Albion," bound from Glasgow to Montreal, at which 
port he arrived after a lapse of six weeks. He went at once to Little York, and was 
a resident of that place until it was incorporated as a city and its name changed to 
Toronto, in the winter of 1833-4. He remained there, working industriously at his 
trade until the 18th of August, 1834, when he became a resident of Buffalo, N. Y., 
whither he came via Niagara Falls. He then went by water to Cleveland, at which 
point he took the stage to Pittsburg, where he remained about six months. He then 
went to Cincinnati, and two months later to Louisville. During his travels he was 
looking for a brother who had preceeded him to America. Leaving Louisville, he 
went down the Ohio River and up the Wabash to Lafayette, Ind., and from there 
by stage to Logansport. There being no stage line from there to South Bend, Mr. 
Elder set out on foot, a distance of sixty-six miles. He passed through what has 
since become Plymouth, but which then consisted of one house, which was used as a 
tavern, and as a man there had broken his plow and was compelled to come to 
South Bend to the nearest blacksmith to get the repairing done, Mr. Elder rode the 
rest of the distance — twenty-three miles — with him, arriving in the place May 12, 
1835. At that time there were but about thirty houses in the town, the most of 
which were log cabins. He continued to work at his trade until 1847, when he 
purchased twenty acres of land just south of the town for S27.50 per acre, which at 
the present time is inside the city limits, lots from the same fronting on South 
Michigan street being worth $2,000. After settling on the land Mr. Elder engaged 
in farming on a small scale, and later opened the first dairy in the town. He has 
lived forty-two years in the house in which he is now residing, a record probably 
not equalled by any family in South Bend or possibly in St. Joseph county. For a 
residence which has been constructed for so long a time, it is in excellent repair, and 
is a model of convenience and comfort. Mr. Elder was married on the 2d of April, 
1838, in South Bend, to Miss Emily A. Sweet, born near Hartford, Conn., 
!March 20, 1816, and daughter of Ira and Orra (Sweet) Sweet, the former a native 
of Ohio and the latter of Connecticut. The father of Ira Sweet was one of the first 
settlers in the vicinity of Ashtabula, Ohio, and cut the first tree on the land where 



MEMOTRS OF INDIANA. 69 

that city oow stands. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Sweet, who were cousins, 
they lived a short time in Connecticut, then settled in New York, and in 1826 
removed to Loraine county, Ohio, and still later to Illinois, where Mrs. Sweet died, 
Mr. Sweet's death occurring in Iowa at the age of seventy-four years. Mr. and 
Mrs. Elder are the parents of the following children: Robert J., and Alexander, 
deceased; John W., Mary A., William A., Martha E. , Amanda M. , Sydney S. and 
Harriet E. Mr. Elder is a member of the Presbyterian Church, having joined that 
religious denomination in Scotland when a young man, but his wife and children 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Elder has always affiliated 
with the Kepublican party, having voted for William Henry Harrison and his grand- 
son, Benjamin Harrison, for President. He assisted in raising the first church in South 
Bend in the fall of 1835, which was a plain, frame structure from heavy timber, for 
the Methodist denomination. The people were in straitened circumstances in those 
days, and rails from a fence were placed on blocks and served as the first spats. A 
strange feature of the church raising, which was of no uncommon occurrence in those 
pioneer days, was a jug of whisky, which also assisted in the laudable work. Mr. 
Elder's life has been one of honor and usefulness, and during his long residence 
in this section he has gathered about him numerous friends, whose respect he at 
all times commands. His life has been marked by the most upright conduct, and 
in his long and varied career, naught has ever been said derogatory to his honor. 

Henry Fischer. Among the prominent business men of Nappanee. Ind., is 
Henry Fischer, who conducts a well-appointed drug store at that place. He was 
born in the State of New York, October 5, 1857, to Henry J. and Fredericka (King) 
Fischer, the former of whom was born in Germany, December 25, 1824, and was 
there reared and educated and served for some time in the German army. Upon 
coming to this country when a young man, he landed at New York City but soon 
after settled at Syracuse, where he worked at the cooper's trade which he had 
learned in the old country. He remained in New York for about ten years after his 
marriage, then moved to Edgerton, Ohio, where he followed his trade for some three 
years, or until 1870, at which time he took up his residence in Goshen, Ind., where 
his trade occupied his time and attention until his death, February 18, 1881. He 
was a member of the Lutheran Church, and at one time was an Odd Fellow. He 
became well to do while in Syracuse, N. Y., but lost a large sum of money at the 
patent-right business, but in a great measure retrieved his losses in later years. He 
became well known in Goshen and was much respected. His wife was born in Ger- 
many in 1836, came with her parents to this country, and was principally reared in 
Syracuse, N. Y. Her father was John King. To Henry J. Fischer and wife the 
following children were born: Minnie, who died young; Henry, the subject of this 
sketch; Herman, who lives at Topeka, Kan. ; Emma, who died young; Albert, who 
is a resident of Elkhart, Ind., and Charles, who resides in Detroit, Mich. After the 
death of her husband Mrs. Fischer married a Mr. Beiling and is now making her 
home in Detroit. She is a member of the Lutheran Church. Henry Fischer was 
only thirteen years old when the family came to Elkhart count}^ He assisted his 
father in the cooper shop and attended school until sixteen years of age when he 
began clerking in a drug store, a calling he followed up to 1889, when he started in 
business for himself in Nappanee, where he has become a popular, successful and 
highly esteemed man of business. He is very energetic and pushing and carries a 
choice line of drugs of all kinds, and an excellent stock of books, stationery, wall 
paper, etc. He has always been a strong Republican, takes an interest in all public 
matters and is generous in contributing to enterprises of a worthy nature. He and 
his wife are members of the Methodist E]uscopal Church, and he is the efficient 
financial secretary of the same. In 1887 he took for his companion through life 
Miss Emma R. Wyland, of Goshen, where her birth occurred October 8, IS.'w, a 
daughter of Israel Wyland, who for eight years was county recorder of Elkhart 
county. Israel Wyland was married twice, his first union resulting in the following 



70 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPniCAL 

cbildren: Cyrus, James B., Lurinda J., John A., all of whom are living. His sec- 
ond union was to Mrs. Lydia De Lotter, and in due course of time resulted in the 
birth of two children: Emma R. (Mrs. Fischer), and a little girl who died in infancy. 
Mrs. Fischer's mother was married three times, her maiden name being Wysong. 
Her first union did not bear fruit, but to her second union were given the following 
children: Mary A. E., Anna, James M. , whose .sketch appears in this volume; Syl- 
vauus, and the following who are deceased: Louis C. , Manda J. and Sarah A. Her 
third marriage was to Mr. AV_yland with the above results. In addition to filling 
the responsible duties of county recorder he was elected assessor of Elkhart town- 
ship a number of times, and also on various occasions filled the office of assessor of 
Goshen with credit to himself. Mrs. Fischer is finely educated, being a graduate 
of the classical course of the Goshen High School in 1878, and completed the Chau- 
tauqua course in 1889, obtaining at the same time the Garnet and White Seals. 
For ten years she was a teacher in the public schools of Goshen, and won a high 
reputation as au educator and disciplinarian. Mr. and Mrs. Fischer have a pretty 
and comfortable home in Nappanee and move in the highest social circles of the 
place. They have two promising children: Ralston, born September 11, 1889, 
and Fredericks L., born June 23, 1890. Mr. Fischer is in every sense of the 
term a self-made man, and deserves much credit for the way in which he has con- 
quered Dame Fortune. 

Jacob S. Walters. The vocation of the pharmacist is unquestionably a highly 
important one in au}' and every community, for upon his care and skill almost as 
much as upon that displayed by the medical profession, oftentimes depends the phys- 
ical welfai'e — nay, the life or death of the sick or ailing. Among the favorably 
known druggists of Elkhart county, Iud.,may be mentioned the name of Jacob S. 
Walters, who has an attractive and well-appointed store in Nappanee. which was 
established in ISSO. He was born in Union township, this county, February 19, 
1854, and was the youngest son of Justin Walters and his wife Elizabeth (Hartman) 
Walters. The father was born in Germany, May 5, 1815; was a member of a promi- 
nent German family, and in the land of his birth was educated. After marryiug, he 
came to this country in 1845, and about 1846 settled in Columbiana county, Ohio, 
and in Elkhart county, Ind., in 1848, taking up his residence in Union township 
where he followed farming from that time until his death in February, 1868. He 
was a member of the Mennonite Church and politically was a Republican. When 
he came to the United States he had no means, but with the perseverence and 
energy which has ever characterized the German people, he kept earnestly at work 
and was soon in fair circumstances. He followed his trade of weaving in the old, as 
well as in the new country, and in this way made considerable money. He identi- 
fied himself with the interests of his adopted country, and came to be known as a 
man of much public spirit. He knew what it was to be a pioneer and suffered the 
hardships of such a life, but he always conducted himself in an upright manner. 
He wa^ very domestic in his tastes and found his greatest happiness in his home 
surrounded by his wife and children. He is still kindly remembered by some of the 
old residents of the county. His widow now resides on the old homestead one and 
one half miles northeast of Nappanee. She was born six miles from Hesse Cassel, 
Germany, in 1816; was there educated, but the greater part of her life has been 
spent on American soil, where her family has been reared. For the past twenty- 
five years her health has not been of the best, but through all her sufferings she has 
preserved her pleasant and cheerful disposition. She bore her husband nine 
children, seven of whom are living: Elizabeth, born September 21, 1836, married 
Henry Christofel; was left a widow, and later married Jacob Yoder, and is now 
residiag five miles south of Elkhart. Sis of the children she bore her first husband 
are deceased — Isaac, Sarah, Maggie, John, Lizzie, .\manda. Katie, the oulv sur- 
viving member, is now Mrs. Bowers; John A. was the next in order of birth and 
was born January 7, 1838; is a merchant of Wakarusa; m;irried Esther Bachert of 



MEMOIRS OF IN 1)1 AS A. 71 

Canada, December 15, 1853, and is the father of these children: Jacob B., Mary, 
Henry, Samuel, Alice, Esther, Elizabeth, Susan, Charles S., Agnes and Belle. Mary 
wasbjrn August 5, 1S40; married a Mr. Trues and died in 1868, leaving one child 
— William. George S. was born July 24, 1843, is a farmer living near Nappanee; 
married Susan Ernest of Elkhart county, and has these children : Frank, Alice, 
Ida, Jesse, Milo, Ira, Oscar, Bert and Verney. Henry J. was born July 7, 1850; 
married Christina Weaver; is clerking in his brother's store, and is the father of 
three children: Melvin, Nora and Daniel. Jacob S. , the subject of this sketch; and 
Lydia, who was born August 20, 1860, and resides on the old homestead with her 
mother. Two children died when young; the death of one occurring on the ocean 
while the family were en route to this country, and was buried at sea. Jacob S. 
Walters was born in Union township this county; was reared to a farm life and 
attended the district schools, the summer seasons being spent in assisting his father 
on the home farm. After the death of the head of the family, he worked by the 
month on a farm, but still attended school during the winter in 1876. After a time 
he embarked in the drug business in Locke by buying out his brother John A., be- 
ing thus associated with Dr. J. K. Julieu, the firm name being Julien & Walters. This 
partnership lasted for one year, when Mr. Walters purchased the interest of Dr. 
Julien and continued the business until 1880, when he put up a business house in 
Nappanee and stocked it with drugs, still retaining his stock at Locke for two years, 
which was under the care of Dr. Paxton. In 1882 he discontinued his business 
there, sold his building and put all his money in his establishment in Nappanee, and 
is at present conducting a profitable business where he first held forth. He is 
handling a full line of drugs, medicines, paints, oils, wall-paper, books and notions, 
his stock being valued at about §6,000; his annual sales amounting to §12,000. 
Socially he has been a member of the A. F. & A. M. since 1877 — Nappanee Lodge, 
A. F. & A. M., No. 656, Goshen Chapter No. 45, R. A. M.,and Bashoe Coimcil, No. 
15, Goshen, Indiana & South Bend Commandery No. 13, K. T. He has held or 
filled all of the offices in the Nappanee Lodge. On August 31, 1879, Mr. Walters 
was married at Locke, Ind. , to Miss Henrietta Burkholder, a resident of Miami 
county, Ind., and a native of Green county. Wis., where she was born June 19, 
1859. To her union with Mr. Walters the following children have been given: 
Arthur M., born May 16, 1880; Maudie E., November 16, 1882; William, March 3, 
1884; Louisa M., November 28, 1886; Chester A., December 2, 1889; Charles R., 
January 16, 1891, and Clara Belle, November 1, 1892. Mrs. Walters is a daughter 
of Jacob and Susanna (Shaffer) Burkholder, both of whom were born in Pennsylvania, 
the father's birth occurring in Bedford county to Jacob Burkholder who came of 
German parents. The Shaffers were also Pennsylvanians and were well known and 
highly respected people in the section in which they resided. Jacob Burkholder, 
the father, was born in 1822 and died in Miami county, Ind., in 1876, having been 
a minister of the Reformed Church for many years, and preached in different por- 
tions of Indiana. He left his native State after reaching manhood, and first located 
in Illinois, where he lived for two years, then moved to Green county. Wis., and 
after a few years became a resident of Huntington county. While pursuing his 
calling he resided in many different places and expounded the gospel from many 
pulpit-i. Twenty years of his life were devoted to the cause of Christianity, and in 
the meantime, being a skilled mechanic, he worked at the carpenter's trade. He 
was public spirited and energetic and politically was a Democrat. His wife's birth 
occurred two years later than his own. She survives him and is a resident of 
Mexico, Miami Co., Ind. Their union resulted in the birth of ten children, eight of 
whom are living: William T. is a resident of Missouri and is a minister of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church ; Sarah C. is the wife of Stephen De Haven of Wisconsin; 
Mary E. became the wife of Joseph Bennett, who was killed on the Wabash Rail- 
road, after which she married Emery Poole; Lucinda A. is the wife of Rev. Joseph 
Bechtel of the United Brethren Church of Fulton, Ind. ; Jeremiah is a school teacher 



72 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of Denver, lud. , and justice of the peace of his township; Jacob C. died at the age 
of thirteen years; Rebecca is the wife of John See; Henrietta (Mrs. Walters); 
Margaret J. died at the age of two months; and John, who resides in Denver, Ind. . 
is successfully engaged in teaching school. After the death of Mr. Burkholder, his 
widow married again, becoming the wife of Michael Nicewiuder. being now a resident 
of Mexico, Ind. She is a member of the Reformed Church and a true Christian in 
every respect. Mrs. Walters was the youngest but one of her family, and while at- 
tending school formed the acquaintance of Mr. Walters, which eventually resulted 
in the marriage. Outside of the drug business Mr. Walters, in connection with 
Wilson Slabaugh, manufactures hard and soft wood lumber, and conducts a lumber 
yard at Nappanee, and they are doing a general building supply business: they 
handle lime and cement. They do an annual business of from S25.000 to $30,000. 
Mr. Walters is a self-made man, and what he has in the way of worldly goods has 
been obtained by his own hard work. He is among the prominent business men of 
Nappanee, and has also a small amount of stock in the Nappanee Furniture Company. 
He is the owner of a nice residence and also his store building. As a business man 
and a citizen generality he commands the r-Jspeet of all and has many warm friends. 
He is a member in good standing of the Indiana Pharmaceutical Association, and for 
seventeen years past has been connected with the drug business. While a resident 
of Locke he held the position of postmaster for three years. 

William W. Best. Mr. Best, a prominent resident of Nappanee, Ind., where 
he has made his home since the fall of 1S91; came from Kosciusko county, of which 
be was a resident from 1S65. He owes his nativity to the Buckeye State, born in 
Carroll county, April S, 1836, and was the youngest of eight children, seven sons 
and one daughter, born to the union of John and Mary (Cooper) Best. John Best 
was born in the southern part of Pennsylvania and was the son of an old Revolu- 
tionary soldier. The latter was born in England and fought in King George's 
army. He was brought to this country but left the English army and became a 
soldier in the American army. He reared a family of six children, four sons and 
two daughters, as follows: John, George, David, Jacob, Catherine and Mary. 
These children settled in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana. The father 
of our subject emigrated to Ohio at an early day, about 1812, and died in Putnam 
county in 1860. He held membership in the Lutheran Church and was prominent 
in all good work. He was an extensive farmer, owned a sawmill and was a carpen- 
ter by trade. He accumulated a good property. His wife, Mary Cooper, was a 
native of Pennsylvania and a descendant of a prominent family of that State. She 
had a brother in the war. of 1812. She followed her husband to the grave in 1863, 
and was in full communion with the Lutheran Church at the time of her death. 
Both parents of our subject were pioneers in Carroll county, Ohio, and the father 
was an extensive farmer, owning 200 acres of land. The children born to the family 
are named as follows: George, Jacob, John, Abram (killed in the Civil war), Isaac, 
Sarah A. , Joseph and William W. Of these children only onr subject and his brother 
John came to Indiana, and both settled in Kosciusko county. Only six of these 
children are now living. William W. Best was educated in the district schools of 
his native county, attending during the winter months, and assisting his father on 
the farm and in the sawmill during the summer season. When about seventeen 
years of age he began learning the carpenter trade, continued this about two years, 
and then returned home, where he took charge of the farm until his father's death. 
His maternal grandfather was a noted hunter and trapper, and Mrs. Best was with 
her father on several occasions when he shot bear. In the jear 1856 our subject 
was united in marriage to Miss Nancy J. Wagner, daughter of Jacob and Margaret 
(Rainer) Wagner, and remained in Ohio until after the war. when he moved his 
family to Indiana. He settled in Kosciusko county, on a farm of 160 acres, but sub- 
sequently put up a sawmill, and carried on both farming and milling. During the 
Rebellion our subject enlisted, but on account of a crippled ankle and foot which he 



MEMOIRS OF lyDIAXA. 73 

got from a fnll from a barn, he was rejected. He helped to raise Company D, One 
Hundred and Eighteenth Ohio; and formed a company of forty men and acted as 
recruiting agent part of the time during the war. Duriug the winter of 1862-3 he 
was with the Twenty-third Army Corps. He had a brother Abram, who died in the 
service, and the latter had a sou, sixteen years of age, who was a soldier. Gnorge 
Best had a son, John C, who served through the war. M'illiam W. Best remained 
on the farm until 1891, when he moved to Nappanee. He has been successful in all 
his business occupations, and is a substantial citizen of the county. He and wife 
are the parents of children, as follows: D. M., a real estate dealer of Elkhart; 
William H. , in tlie market business in Nappanee; Lydia A., now Mrs. E. Lieniiart, 
of St. Joseph county; Mary A., now Mrs. J. D. Good, of Nappanee; Margaret E., 
now Mrs. Christian Johnson; Ada L., now Mrs. Mahlon H. Thomas, of Chicago; 
John M. , residing in Nappanee; Philip I., iu Nappanee. and Florence E. Mr. Best 
and sons are ardent supporters of Democratic principles, and he is a public-spirited 
citizen. He is now engaged in the real estate, insurance and collecting business. 
He and wife have a cozy home on South Elm street, near the United Brethren 
Church, and are highly esteemed as upright, honorable citizens. 

Gordon Noel Murray, editor and proprietor of the Nappanee News, was born 
July 22, 1852, at the Murray Homestead, in Jefferson township, Elkhart Co., 
Ind. , being a member of a family of six brothers and three sisters. His early years 
were spent on the farm, receiving an education afforded by the country school of 
that day. by attending school in the winter season and working on the farm during 
the summer, until he reached the age of eighteen years, when he moved to Goshen 
with his parents. There, in 1871, he obtained a situation as an apprentice in a 
machine shop. Working in various factories iu that city until 1874, young Murray 
took up his residence in Sterling, 111., where he remained until the spring of 1S77; 
during that interval having charge of a factory as foreman, and being employed as 
a commercial traveler. Going to South Bend iu the same year, young Murray fol- 
lowed the vocation of a mechanic until the winter of 1877-78, when he entered the 
mechanical department of the South Bend Herald, then published by his brother, 
Charles T. Murray. The latter returning to Washington, D. C, iu the spring of 
1878, the father of the subject of this sketch — Hon. Charles L. Murray — sold his 
interest iu the Goshen Democrat, and took charge of the South Bend Herahl. It 
was then that young Murray was initiated into the mysteries of journalism, contin- 
uing as he did in the capacity of business manager and city editor of the Herald 
until the spring of 1881. After his father disposed of the Herald, at that time, 
Mr. Murray again entered on the duties of a commercial traveler. In June of the 
same year, 1881, he was married to Miss Ellen Niles Taylor, at Ionia, Mich. Under 
a mortgage, the Herald material reverting to his parent, Mr. Murraj' again returned 
to the printing business at South Bend in 1882. Forming a partnership with a 
younger brother, Harris F. Murray, and his father, under the firm name of C. L. 
Murray & Sons, job printers. Mr. Murray completed his trade in the "art preserva- 
tive." In the fall of 188-t the job printing office was disposed of, and soon after 
fell into the hands of prominent Prohibitionists of the State, who had formed a 
stock company to establish a State organ for their party. Mr. Murray became a 
stockholder, and was awarded the contract of moving the plant to Indianapolis, 
where it was consolidated with that of the Monitor Journal, and tlere he estab- 
lished the mechanical department of the Indiana Plialanx, now the State Prohibition 
organ. The Phalanx Company being unable to continue the salary at which Mr. 
Murray was employed, he removed to Goshen, Ind., where he became identitied 
with the Daily Xews. He tirst entered on the duties of solicitor on the road, but 
soon after became business manager of the office, and later a member of the firm, as the 
News Printing Company. He continued there until January, 1888, when he was 
enabled, through the assistance of Thomas A. Starr, senior editor of the Goshen Xetcs. 
to purchase the Nappanee News, which he has edited during the past five years, 



74 ncrOlUAL AND BIOGMAPniCAL 

bringing the paper into local prominence among the publications of northern Indiana. 
He is one of the directors of the Fair Association of the county, that his father 
organized in an early daj' and became the tirst secretary, holding that position for 
a great many years. Mr. Murray comes of journalistic stock; he is a self-made 
man, always having made his way in the world by his own energy since leaving the 
farm. 

His brother, Charles T. Murray, at one time editor of the South Bend Herald, 
and later the well-known Washington correspondent, now has a newspaper bureau 
in New York City; and during the presidential campaign of 1892, just closed, was 
employed in furnishing special matter for the New York Herald. His brother, 
Edward Murray, a writer and contributor of well-known ability, is business manager 
of Paper and Press, Lithographer' s Journal, and the Spanish-American publication, 
Papel y Prensa, of Philadelphia. Harris F. Murray, a younger brother, is on the 
Oregonian, of Pendleton, Ore. Mr. Murray's uncle, F. W . Murray, was for a 
quarter of a century connected with the press of Cincinnati, as a contributor and 
compositor. Mr. Murray's father, Hon. Charles L. Murray, the pioneer journalist 
of Elkhart and Kosciusko counties, was born in 1815, in a small town called Mur- 
raystield, in Bradford county, Penn. His parents were Philadelphians. He was 
paternally Scotch and maternally English. His paternal grandfather was an officer 
in the Revolutionary war, and his profession (religious) was, first a Baptist, and 
then a Universalist minister, and was one of eight brothers who settled in western 
New York after the Revolution. His maternal grandfather was a Quaker, and fol- 
lowed the business of an architect in Philadelphia, where C. L. Murray's parents 
were born. While the family resided at Athens, on the Susquehanna River, his 
father was appointed justice of the peace for life, by the governor of Pennsylvania, 
under the old constitution. Mr. Murray began, about the year 1828, to learn the 
printer's trade. The paper was published in Towanda, and supported John Q. 
Adams for President. His brother-in-law, W. Jenkins, leaving Towanda, Mr. 
Murraj' went with the family to Huron county, Ohio, where he was engaged in the 
first anti-Masonic printing office in the State. In 1831 Mr. Jenkins moved the 
office to Columbus, Ohio, where Mr. Murray followed him as an apprentice. Com- 
pleting his trade in 1833, he went west to seek his fortune. Having a relative at 
Jacksonville, 111., on his father's side (Murray McCounel), he worked in that place 
on a paper published by a Mr. Edwards. Taking the prevailing disease of the 
country — ague — he returned to Columbus, Ohio, by joining his father's nephew in 
taking a drove of horses through that were being bought for the Philadelphia 
market. Mounted on a horse young Murray crossed the State from St. Louis via 
Vincennes, and in spite of the terrible condition of the roads at that time, reached 
Cohimbus in safety. Here he again worked for his brother-in-law and became fore- 
man of the office of the Western Hemisphere, the Democratic organ of the State. 
Young Murray was then in his eighteenth year, and he continued in the employ of 
the paper until a difficulty arose between him and one of the proprietors. Soon 
afterward the paper changed hands, and its name changed to the Ohio Statesman, 
when Mr. Murray again accepted a position in the office, and continued there until 
1834. He then went to Piqua, Ohio, on the solicitation of citizens there; and, in 
company with his brother-in-law, D. B. Espy, established the Piqua Courier. The 
paper was printed on an old wooden press that had been brought from Philadelphia 
at an early day. The Courier, with Charles L. Murray as editor, was the first paper 
in the State which run up the name of Gen. Harrison for President in 1835. Mr. 
Murray purchased the interest of his brother-in-law in 1836. He was married to a 
Kentucky lady, by the name of Ann Maria Spriggs, in July of the same year. A 
party of citizens from Goshen, Ind., solicited Mr. Murray to remove to that town, 
and he accepted the offer, selling the Courier to one Barrington. In company with 
Anthony Defrees, of Goshen, Mr. Murray went to Cincinnati and bought an outfit, 
shipped it to Dayton by canal, and the balance of the way it was transported to 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAiiA. 75 

Goshen in wagons via Ft. Wayne. The first issue of the Goshen Express, C. L. 
Murray as editor, appeared in February, 1837. Mr. Defrees soon sold his interest 
to Mr. Murray, who continued as its editor, at intervals, and under different names, 
until 1840. At this period, as a Whig candidate, he was defeated for the auditor- 
ship of Elkhart county, the Democrats having a large majority in the county. Mr. 
Murray was appointed postmaster at Goshen, under President Harrison, in 1840, 
and sold his printing office shortly afterward. He was removed from office during 
the administration of John Tyler. Mr. Murray, having purchased some land north 
of Goshen, turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, devoting his time during 
the winter to working at his trade, or in reporting the proceedings of the Senate for 
the Indiana State Journal. In 1846 he printed the Republican at Monoquet, Kos- 
ciusko county, for one year, under an engagement with land owners there, who 
were trying to locate the county seat. This was the first paper ever printed in the 
county. From there he moved to Indianapolis and became assistant editor of the 
State Journal. In the fall of the following year he returned to his farm in Elkhart 
county, where his family resided until 1870, though Mr. Murray was still in the 
habit of going to Indianapolis to report in the Senate, where he served seven ses- 
sions in that capacity. In 1859 he was elected by the Republicans, joint-represent- 
ative, from the counties of Elkhart and Lagrange, by a majority of 900. He 
served through both extra and regular sessions, and took an active part in important 
subjects under consideration. In 1860 he was elected to the Senate by over 1,200 
majority. He had the advantage of the acquaintance of nearly all the public men 
of Ohio and Indiana. He was purely a self-made man, never having attended 
school a day after he was eleven years of age. On the first call of the Government 
for 75,000 men to put down the rebellion, he wrote out a muster-roll, signed it, 
placed it in the auditor's office of the county, wrote out and had published in l)oth 
Goshen papers the first call for volunteers in that city, after which he went out into 
the townships and made speeches for recruits. After he had raised a sufficient 
number of men for a company, through a call in the papers, he met the men at 
Goshen and placed in nomination a captain and first lieutenant, and leaving them 
to complete the organization, departed for Indianapolis to attend the extra session 
of the Legislature, called by Gov. Morton, to equip the Indiana troops for the three 
months' service. The quota of troops being tilled when the men arrived, they were 
discharged and returned home. Mr. Murray procured a place as private in Capt. 
Mann's company, from the city of Elkhart, and, when marching orders came, left 
his seat in the Senate and boarded a cattle train with the boys one morning, after 
having lain with them on the ground all night near the Union depot. After serving 
the three mouths as a private, he returned home and completed his term in the 
Senate. On February 1. 1862, he left Camp Ellis, near Goshen, with the Forty- 
eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, as quartermaster, and remained with the reg- 
iment about two years, until he received his disctarge, Ijy reason of severe illness 
that incapacitated him from duty. In 1870 Mr. Murray sold his farm and removed 
his family to Goshen, where he soon bought a half interest in the Democrat, which 
paper he edited until the fall of 1877. About that time he moved to South Bend 
and took charge of the Herald, which plant he had owned for several years previous, 
in partnership with his sou, Charles T. Murray. He continued to edit the Herald 
until he sold the office in the fall of 1880. In 1882 the material of the Herald 
returning to Mr. Murray under a mortgage, and the "good will" of the office hav- 
ing been taken from him through the connivance of the man to whom he had sold 
the office, whereby he met the first real financial loss during his entire newspaper 
career, he, in company with his two sons, Gordon N. and Harris F., opened a job 
printing office at South Bend. Having reached that age when mechanical work 
became burdensome to him, he was gratuitously employed as editor of the Sun, a 
Prohibition organ, printed at the job office through arrangements with local adher- 
ents of that party. The office was sold during the fall of 1884, and was afterward 



76 PICTORIAL .LVi> BIOGR^iPUICAL 

removed to Indiaaapolis. At this period Mr. Murray retired from active business 
life, though he continued to contribute to the columns of the New York Voice, 
Chicago Xeivs, and other journals, over his signature, up to within a few months of 
his death. He died at his home in the city of South Bend, July 15, 1889. It 
will be seen by this sketch that the subject thereof was closely identified with the 
early history of Elkhart county, and later of St. Joseph county. He was a pol- 
itician from his boyhood, and was particularly "at home with his pen" on all 
political questions and political historj- of his time. He was counted as one among 
the most fluent, yet vigorous writers, in the field of northern Indiana journalism, 
during his newspaper work therein. Mr. Murray was first a Whig, then a Eepub- 
lican, from that party's infancy until the time of the "Liberal" movement that 
followed Horace Greeley. He affiliated with the Democratic party until the Pro- 
hibitionists organized in the State, when he adopted that political faith, to which he 
strictly and conscientiously adhered; and was prominent in drafting, in a measure, 
that party's State platform in 1SS8. 

William H. Holdeman. Among the newspaper men of northern Indiana who 
have done so much in the past and are planning so wisely to help forward i he inter- 
ests of their sections in the future, we are pleased to mention Mr. William Holde- 
man. This gentleman is the editor and proprietor of the Nappanee Advance, 
established September 11, 1891, and owes his nativity to Indiana, born in Randolph 
county, August 18, IS-tT. His great-grandfather. Christian Montel, was a Hessian 
soldier, and was brought over by King George to tight the Continental army. He 
was captured by the latter and willingly fought on the other side until the close of the 
war. He then settled in Virginia and was there married. Jacob Holdeman. grand- 
father of subject, was born in Virginia in 1787, and man-ied to a Miss Montel. In 
1842 he and family moved to Randolph county, Ind., purchased a tract of laud and 
settled in the woods where they remained ten years, from there they moved to Elkhart 
county, settled on a farm in Union township, and after residing there ten years moved 
to Kosciusko county, wherethey purchased laud southwest of Nappanee. This they sold 
later and moved to Webster. Mr Holdeman died December 13, 1866, at the home of his 
son, Christian, in Elkhart county. A Whig in politics at an early day he later espoused 
the principles of the Republican party, and remained with that until his death. In 
religion he was a member of the United Brethren Church, and was active in his 
support of the same. His son. Christopher, father of our subject, was born in 
Preble county, Ohio, April 7, 1820, and came with his father to Randolph county, 
Ind., where he grew to manhood. He married Miss Eliza Study, a daughter of 
Levi and Mary Study, and a native of Wayne county, Ind., born November 7, 1816. 
She died at her home northwest of Goshen, Ind., Eebruar}' 27, 1887, and was one 
of these children, as follows: Matilda, Levi, Abraham, Jesse, William, Charlotte, 
Eliza and Catherine; only the following are now living: Matilda , Catherine, Elizabeth 
and Jesse. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Holdeman moved to Jackson township. Elk- 
hart county, Ind., and there reared a family of eight children, as follows: Mary A., 
born February 17, 1846, married C. K. StaufFer and resides on a farm east of Elk- 
hart; Jesse, bom January 10, 1849, married Miss Belle McCloud and resides in 
Kosciusko county, near Milford (he has a family): Charlotte, born September 3, 
1852, married Rev. W. Bussard, a minister in the German Baptist Church, and has 
several children: Alice J., born May 23, 1858, became the wife F. P. Shultz, of 
Jefferson township. Elkhart county; one child, not named, died in 1849: Minerva 
J., died April 13. 1862, when nine months old: Israel, died in 1856, when two 
weeks old, and William H., our subject. The father of these children is still living 
and although well along in years, enjoys comparatively good health. A Republican 
in politics, he keeps himself well posted on all the current topics of the day, and a 
United Brethren in his religious views, he is active in all good work. William H. 
Holdeman received the rudiments of his education in the district schools of Jackson 
township, attending during the winter months and assisting his father with the farm 



MEMOIRS OF IXDI.\yA. 77 

work in sunimer. At the age of twenty years he commenced teaching school in 
Elkhart cjunty, and later had the advantages of the Xormal School and Butler Col- 
lege, Goshen, and also at Hillsdale College, Michigan. In 1879 he opened a noimal 
schoil at Nappanee and later became high school principal. Afterward he became 
editor and proprietor of the Nappanee News, then the only newspaper in the town, 
and this he conducted very successfully until January 28, 1888, when he sold to G. 
N. Murray, the present editor. Then he moved to Hicksville, Ohio, purchased The 
Independent, which he afterward changed to a Republican paper, and moved from 
there to Woodlawn Park, Chicago, where he owns a good property near Jackson Park. 
Beturniug to Nappanee he started The Advance, the only official Republican organ 
in this part of the county. He is very successful as a newspaper man, and although 
but recently started, his paper commands an ever widening area of circulation. He 
is a Methodist in his religious views and is active in church, town and county affairs. 
On April 25. 1882, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary I. HoUoway, who was 
born September 28, 1855, and whose parents, L. D. and Elizabeth (Dehoff) Hollo- 
way, were pioneers of Columbiana county, Ohio. She is one of five children, as fol- 
lows: Mary I., Jennie, Walter T., Harvey and William, all living except Harvey. 
Mr. and Mrs. Holdeman have two interesting children: Hazel Elizabeth, born June 
8. 1888. at Hicksville, Ohio, and Lloyd Holloway, born June 14, 1891. 

Lester F. Babee, founder of the D. H. Baker k, Bro. boot and shoe store of 
South Bend, Ind., is a native of the Empire State, born in Oneida county, August 
19, 1819, and is a son of Eleazer Baker, who was a native of Connecticut, born 
in 1793, but who died in Orleans county, N. T. , in 1836. He was a commission 
merchant by occupation, and in 1825 settled in western New York when that 
part of the State was a wilderness. He was one of the pioneers. The mother of 
our subject, Susan (Love) Baker, was born in Oneida county, N. Y., in 1797, and 
died in 1877. Lester F. Baker was the eldest of eight children born to this worthy 
couple and is the only one of two now living. He was educated in the district 
and private schools and from the age of fourteen until eighteen he worked on a 
farm. He then branched out to fight his own way in life and was engaged in 
various occupations until twent)- years of age when he began teaching school in his 
native State. As compensation he received from §15 to S25 per month and " board 
around." This profession he followed for six years, and in 1846 he came to Aki-on, 
Ohio, where he engaged in the stove and tinware business for some time. From 
there he went to Sandusky City, thence to Cincinnati, and for two years, or until 
1852, was engaged in railroad work on the Chicago, Hamilton & Dayton Railway, 
which was then building. In the last mentioned year, in company with his 
brother, Darwin H. , he came west in search of a good business location, and after 
much hunting decided that South Bend, Ind., was the best place, all things con- 
sidered, that they could find. In May, 1852, they opened a boot and shoe store 
opposite the South Bend National Bank as it now stands, and remained there 
from May to October, when they removed to Michigan street, three doors from Wash- 
ington street. Six months later they removed their goods one door south from 
that place and there the firm remained for twenty years. Then they removed to 
the present location on the corner of Michigan and Washington. In 1861 Mr. Baker 
retired from the boot and shoe business and since then has given his attention to his 
real estate interests. He is the owner of some of the best property in the city 
and has ever been thoroughgoing and enterprising. He was married in 1849 to 
Miss Mary R. Willey, of Delaware, Ohio, born in that town in 1826, and they 
have two daughters: Susan, now Mrs. William Nickell, residing in Waukesha, Wis., 
and Ida, now Mrs. Frederick Sanborn, of South Bend. In politics Mr. Baker is a 
standi supporter of Democratic principles, and cast his tii'st presidential vote for 
JIartin Van Buren in 1840. In his religious sentiments he is a Presbyterian. In 
the year 1875 he was elected to the common council of the city of South Bend and 
served in a creditable and efii3ient manner for two years. In 18S9 he was appointed 



78 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

by the Indiaaa General Assembly aa one of the trustees of the Northern Indiana 
Asylum for Insane at Ljwansport. This appointment was made without his knowl- 
edge and was a great surprise for him. Mr. Baker has passed many years of his 
life in St. Joseph county and in every walk of life has acquitted himself in an 
upright, honorable manner. He is known far and near as a man of kind disposi- 
tion, and au intelligent and worthy gentleman. He has ever been interested in the 
public welfare, and while he has ever attended strictly to his private affairs, he 
shirked no duties as a loyal citizen. 

William R. Boyd is the president of the South Bead Lumber Company, which 
was organized and incorporated December 1, 1889, with a capital stock of •532.0OO 
with the following officers: William R. Boyd, president; Frank Colmar, vice pres- 
ident, and S. A. Hillier, secretary and treasurer. The company was the consol- 
idation of the lumber interests of Leach & Jackson and Boyd & Hillier, the latter 
firm having purchased the business of the former a short time previous to the organ- 
ization of the South Bend Lumber Company. A large planing mill and sash 
and door factory is operated in connection with the business, the annual volume of 
which amounts to about $150,000. Mr. Boyd was born in Harford county, Md., 
August 27, 1841, to Weston and Hannah (Parsons) Boyd, the former a native of 
Harford county and the latter of Baltimore, Md. Weston Boyd was born about the 
year 1810. His parents, who were natives of England, came to America in colonial 
times, and although the grandfather was a tanner by trade he did not follow that 
occupation after coming to America, the occupation of agriculture being his life 
work after locating in Maryland. Previous to his death he owned a large amount 
of property within thirty-six miles of Baltimore, which was the family home- 
stead for many years and where the paternal grandfather and grandmother passed 
their lives. Weston Boyd, when a lad, went to Baltimore, where he learned the car- 
penter's trade, which he followed during his lifetime. After his marriage in Bal- 
timore to Miss Parsons, he located at Havre de Grace, Md., where the family lived 
a namber of years and where the subject of this sketch was born. With the excep- 
tion of a few. years in Washington, D. C, Mr. Boyd resided in this place until 
his death, in June, 1857. His wife survives him and at present makes her home 
with her son, John T., in Alexandria, Va. She bore her husband three children: 
John T., William R. , and Charles W. (deceased.) One child was born to Mr. Boyd 
bv a f jrmer marriage: Sarah I., wife of James Whittington of Philadelphia. Peun. 
William R. Bjyd was reared in his native town, where he received his initiatory 
eduoition which he afterward finishel in the public schools of Washington, D. C 
In 1857 he w.is apprenticed in that city to the carpenter's trade, serving four years. 
At this periol the war cam^ on and Mr. Boyd enlisted at 10 o'clock on the 
10th of April, 1851, becoming a member of Company A. District of Columbia Vol- 
unteer Infantry, which was the first mustered into the service and before the call for 
volunteers. A psculiar feature of this company was that every one of it^ mem- 
bers were born s )uth of Mason and Di.xon's line, with the exception of one French- 
man and one Irishman. The company was organized shortly after the election 
of Lincoln to participate in his inauguration and at that time had the right-of-line 
at the ceremanies. It was composed of patriotic, loyal men, who had organized to 
protect th^ life of tbs Preiidant during the inaugural ceremonies, as his life had been 
repeatedly threatened. During the three months for which the members of the 
company had enlisted, their time was chiefly taken up with guard duty. Mr. Boyd 
was in the employ of the Government in the quartermaster department during the 
war and was among a crowd of 500 volunteers engaged in repelling the guerrillas 
under Mosby at Manassas Junction. At the close of the war M. Boyd disposed 
of his furniture business at Alexandria, which he had operated a short time, and 
came to South Bend, Ind. , where he began working at his trade. In 1882 he 
formed a partnership with S. A. Hillier under the firm name of Boyd & Hillier, 
in the lumber business, which firm has been succeeded by the South Bend Lumber 



MEM0IB8 OF INDIAyA. 79 

Compauy. Mr. Boyd thorouorhly uuderstanda every detail of the lumber busi- 
ness nnd is an excellent judge of all kinds of lumber. The firm of which he is a 
member is doing a thriving business and one which is constantly on the increase. 
Mr. Boyd was married December 26, 1865, at Burlington, N. J., to Emelia A. Hil- 
lier, a daughter of Richard and Frances (Stull) Hillier. Their union has resulted 
in the birth of two children: Nellie W., born October 27, 1866, and Robert E., born 
September 12, 1870. Mr. Boyd is a member of the Royal Arcanum, the Masonic 
fraternity and the G. A. R. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church and politically he is a Prohibitionist. The welfare of St. Joseph 
county has always been dear to him, and he is among the foremost in advocating 
measures for the benefit of his section. 

Ira S. Schropp. This gentleman, who is the most efficient superintendent of 
the city water-works of South Bend, Ind. , was born near Akron, Ohio, March 14, 
1862. He was one of four children and when but an infant, was left motherless. 
He was adopted by Edwin G. Schropp, and was reared by that gentleman. His 
youthful days were passed on the farm and he had very limited educational advan- 
tages, only attending the common schools during the winter season. When old 
enough, he was given a trade (potter) and beginning this when eight years of age, fol- 
lowed it for twelve years. When twenty years of age young Schropp came to South 
Bend, Ind. , as a representative of Donham & Ryland, wholesale tea merchants, but sub- 
sequently engaged with the Studebaker Wagon Works, where he was employed for 
two and a half years. On account of failing health he was obliged to go west, and 
he was employed in Des Moines, Iowa, by Gilchrist Lumber Company, remaining 
with the same for about eight months. Returning to South Bend he was employed as 
clerk in the city water- works, which position he held for two years and a half, when he 
was appointed superintendent of the same, succeeding E. L. Abbott. He has held this 
position for four years to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. He is a prac- 
tical and competent engineer, and has exhibited in his incumbency of this office 
the most prudent, careful and efficient management. A self-made man, Mr. Schropp 
owes all his success in life to his own indomitable push and enterprise, and as a 
citizen and neighbor no one is more highly esteemed. His marriage with Miss Mary 
Krill, daughter of Joseph Krill, a prominent farmer of Portage township, occurred 
on the 9th of August, 1888. Mr. Scropp is a member of the K. of P. and the A. O. 
TJ. W., and takes much interest in these organizations. His adopted father, who is 
now a resident of South Bend, was a soldier in the Civil war. and belonged to what 
was kuown as the "Squirrel Hunters. " On November 30, 1892, he resigned his position 
as superintendent of the city water- works to engage in the pateut-mediciiie business, 
located at South Bend, and was succeeded in his position by John A. Graham, who 
was formerly superintendent of Strayer Machine shops. 

Dr. H. R. Stauffer is a young physician of Elkhart county, Ind. , but he pos- 
sesses a genius for his calling, and for that reason has attained an enviable reputa- 
tion among the citizens of the county as well as his professional brethren. He is a 
product of Elkhart county, for here he was born on the 8th of March, 1858, to John 
Stauffer and wife, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere. His early days were spent 
on the farm belonging to his father in Union township, and there he became a pupil 
in the common schools as soon as he was old enough, his literary education beinc 
afterward completed in a normal school. At the early age of fifteen years he became 
a schoolteacher, his first attempt in this line of work being in the country schools 
but so successful was he that he followed it until he was twenty-one years of age, at 
which time, having previously formed the resolution, he began the studv of medi- 
cine in the office of Dr. Julian, of Nappanee, and at the end of one j'ear he entered 
Rush Medical College, of Chicago, and graduated from same in 1883. Immediately 
following this he returned to his home in Nappanee, at once hung out his shingle, thus 
announcing himself as a practitioner of the "healing art." His skill and knowledge 
of his calling was soon recognized, his practice continued to increase, and now 



80 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

extends over many counties, where bis name is well known and bigbly regarded. He 
is a member of the County Medical Association, tbe National Medical Association 
and for some time past be has been tbe railroad surgeon for tbe Baltimore & Obio 
Railroad. He is medical examiner of pensions at Goshen, and at all times shows 
that be is up with the times in tbe advances made in bis profession. He is decid- 
edly public spirited, is a stanch Republican politically, and, socially, is a member of 
the K. of P. lodge of Nappanee, also tbe I. O. O. F. of the same place. Aside from 
his practice be is interested in a box factory of Nappanee, which is proving a pay- 
ing line of work. The factory is desirably located, is a well-equipped plant for its 
line of work, a specialty being made of bee-hive work and all kinds of bee sup- 
plies. . The Doctor is interested in this enterprise in connection with his father and 
bis brother Wallace. They ship their boxes to all large cities as well as to numer- 
ous States and find their business to be a paying one. The Doctor is a great lover 
of tine horse-flesh, has some especially speedy animals, and takes great pride in 
tbeiu. His horses are Kentucky bred and are very fast travelers. He is a thoroughly 
practical business man: is wide awake, active and zealous in his profession, as well 
as in other matters; is respected where ever known and comes of one of tbe finest 
families in the county. Tbe Doctor was married in 1879 to Miss Belzora Jones, 
who was a native of Cass county, Mich. . born on the 7tb of September, 1859, being one 
of four children reared by Howell and Mary (Pemberton) Jones, tbe former of 
whom was born in South Carolina, but when young came to Michigan, where for 
many years he was a resident of Cass county. He was a son of Drury and Jennie 
(Howell) Jones, and was one of their eight children. He grew to manhood on a 
farm, married, and reared the following children: Esther, Albert, Lou E., Bel- 
zora (Mrs. StaufFer). The father and mother resided on a farm in Cass county until 
their respective deaths in 1806 and 1870. The latter was a daughter of Joseph 
and Eleanor (Asbby) Pemberton, both of whom were of English descent, the Pem- 
bertons being among tbe nobility of England, and descendents of Lord Pemberton. 
Mr. Jones and his wife were members of tbe United Brethren Church and were well 
respected in Cass county. Mrs. StaufFer attended the district schools there and 
finished her education in the school at Valparaiso, where she also studied music and 
painting. Dr. and Mrs. Stauffer have a daughter, Iva, who was born June 30, 
1882. Mrs. Stauffer is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and being of 
a very social disposition has many friends in Nappanee. whom she welcomes to her 
hospitable home in the eastern part of the town. 

Dr. Willi.4m W. Butterwokth (deceased). Very few, save those who have trod 
the arduous paths of the profession can picture to themselves the array of attrib- 
utes, physical, mental and moral, the host of minor graces of manner and person, 
essential to tbe making of a truly successful physician. His constitution needs 
must be of the hardiest to withstand the constant shock of wind and weather, the 
wearing loss of sleep and rest, the ever gathering load of care, the insidious ap- 
proach of every form of fell disease to which his daily round of duties momentarily 
exposed him. Ear more than all, how greatly clothed with moral strength must be 
the man who would involve himself in all the woeful secrets of humanity, drawing 
from nature her most treasured secrets, and unlocking the gates where ignorance 
and doubt have stood sentinel for ages. Such a physician was the one whose name 
stand-; at the head of this sketch and who in bis own person so closely approached 
the iileal we have attempted to sketch above. Dr. William W. Butterworth was 
born in Warren county, Ohio, in 1824, and comes of a sturdy Virginia family. 
When but a boy his parents emigrated to La Porte county, Ind., and in farm 
work young Butterworth laid the foundation for his excellent constitution, and 
for the unusual amount of good common sense that ever characterized his actions. 
After attending tbe common schools he was fitted for college and entered Asbury 
University, where be remained one year. After this he began the study of med- 
icine and graduated at the Indiana Medical College. He subsequently took a 



MEMOIRS OF IXDTAXA. 81 

partial course of lectures at Uuiversity Medical College, New York, and in 1847 
located at Mishawaka. lad., where he began practicing his profession. He went 
to that city an entire stranger, with very little to assist him in the battle of life, 
save a thorough knowledge of medicine. The city was then in the height of pros- 
perity and the medical field was then occupied by a strong corps of educated and 
popular physicians, as well as by a number of "root and herb" and "steam" 
doctors. Fresh from his college and medical studies. Dr. Butterworth hung out 
his shingle and with much self-reliance, energy and industry, sought the confi- 
dence of the people. He soon had a liberal patronage and a fair share of the 
business but had strong competition with some noted and scientific physicians. 
Until 1861 and during the war. Dr. Butterworth always maintained first-class 
rank in his profession in northern Indiana. In 1802 he. with a few other medical 
men from different parts of the State, was commissioned by Gov. Morton by au- 
thority of the war department, to visit Indiana troops in the field and hospital, 
then suffering so terribly from typhoid disease, and in that capacity rendered ef- 
ficient aid on the battlefield and in the camp of Pittsburg Lauding. In the sum- 
mer of 1802 he accepted a commission as surgeon of the Ninety-ninth Indiana 
Volunteer Regiment and served as such until the close of tlie war. The last year 
of his service he was detailed for hospital work principally at Marietta, Georgia 
and Alexandria, Va. He served as president of St. Joseph Valley District Medical 
Societ}', composed of the counties of Elkhart, St. Joseph and La Porte of Indi- 
ana, and Cass and Berrien counties, Mich. His papers were always among the 
best read before the medical societj', aud many of them were published in the 
leading medical journals of the county. He was a talented writer and a very 
forcible and expressive speaker. In 1872 his name was very favorably mentioned 
as a candidate for congress, but he felt unable to afford the expense necessary for 
the uncertain race and therefore declined the proposed honor. He was a leading 
Republican and represented his county in the legislature from 1870 to 187-4, with 
distinction, his services being publicly indorsed by a re-election. Following this 
he devoted his time to his profession and to the farming interest, continuing this 
until his death in December, 1888. He was twice married, his last wife being Mrs. 
S. E. Kennedy, a daughter of the Hon. Milo Smith, of Mississippi. Two sons and 
a daughter survive. 

Charles M. Butterworth, M. D., the youngest son, like his illustrious father, has 
selected the medical profession as his calling in life, and is one of the younger 
elements of our prominent, energetic and influential citizens, and one of the popu- 
lar physicians of South Bend. He was born at Mishawaka, Ind., July 8, 1S66, and 
his first scholastic training was received in the public schools of that place. Later 
he was a pupil of his aunt. Miss Carrie V. Sherwood, of his native town, and then 
studied for a j-ear in the ofiice of his father and Dr. J. B. Green. After this he 
entered the Medical College of Ohio, remained in the same three years, and in Sep- 
tember, 1889, he located in South Bend for the practice of his profession, and has 
remained here ever since. In politics he supports the platform of the Republican 
party. He is a member of the St. Joseph Medical Society and in 1891 was vice- 
president of the same. He is also a member of the National Association, and for 
three years has been county physician for the poor of Portage, German and Clay 
townships, also physician to St. Joseph Hospital and the County Asylum. 

George \V. Loughman. The name of Loughman is oue of the most influential 
in South Bend, Ind., and is one of the most respected by the community. Mr. 
Loughman deserves special notice for his public spirit and energy, and is at present 
the most efficient secretary and treasurer of the Sandage Steel Skein Compan.v, of 
that city. He was mayor of South Bend for some time, and very ably and efficiently 
did he conduct the affairs of the city during his incumbency. He was born at Browns- 
ville, Ohio, December 25, 1846, and is a son of David and Elizabeth (Martin) Lough- 
man, natives of the Keystone State. The father died in 1846, about three months 



82 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

prior to the birth of our subject, and the mother died at Brownsville, Ohio, in 1877. 
Georce W. Loughman, the youngest of five children, passed his boyhood and youth 
on a farm, received a common-school education, and when seventeen years of age 
donued his suit of blue, shouldered his musket and enlisted in Company G, Thirty- 
second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving nearly two years. He was in all the engage- 
ments of the Atlanta campaign in which his regiment participated, was with Sherman 
to the sea, and through the Carolinas and Virginia. He was discharged at the close 
of the war and mustered out at Louisville, Ky. Keturning home he remained there 
for about three months, and then came to St. Joseph county, Ind., locating at 
ilishawaka. He clerked for the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad com- 
pany, and later was appointed to an agency for the company, holding that position 
for about three years. He then came to South Bend as the company's cashier, and 
held that position for about six years. In 1880 he represented that railroad com- 
pany in the stock yards at Chicago for six mouths, after which he returned to South 
Bend as the company's agent, and continued as such for nine years. Altogether, 
he was in the employ of this company for twenty-three years, and then resigned to 
encage in manufacturing and his present pursuits. He has been treasurer of the 
Sandage Steel Skein Company ever since his connection with the same. In politics 
he is a Kepablican, and was elected two terms to the citv council. In 1882 he was 
elected mayor, and his services were publicly endorsed by re-election in 1884. In 
his re-election, while the city was from two to three hundred Democratic, he received 
a majority of more than 600 votes, thus attesting his popularity as a citizen and an 
official. Socially, he is a Knight Templar in the Masonic fraternity, South Bend 
Commandery, No. 13, Crusade Lodge, No. 14, also a K. of P., Auten Post, No. 14, 
& G. A. R. A charter member of the South Bend Building & Loan Association, he 
has been its president since its organization. This is one of the oldest in north 
Indiana, and one of the most successful in the State. In his religious views Mr. 
Loughman is a member of the Grace Methodist Episcopal Church. In the year 
1868 he was married to Miss Martha Chandler, of Mishawaka, Ind. , and one daugh- 
ter has been born to this union: Edith B., now Mrs. Osborn Miller, who resides at 
Three Rivers, Mich. 

Jacob H. Reamek. Mr. Reamer, president of the Sandage Steel Skein company, 
of South Bend, Ind., was born in North Liberty, St. Joseph Co., Ind., October 16, 
1852, and possesses that independent spirit, that enterprise, push and industry 
necessary for a successful business career. His parents, Henry and Abigail 
(Liggett) Reamer, were natives of the Keystone State and Ohio, respectively, and 
made their home there for many years. The father was born near Newport, Penn., 
in 1818, and the mother was born in Ohio in 1823. The former learned the saddler's 
trade in his native State, and worked at the same until his marriage, when he began 
farming. Later he moved to St. Joseph county, Ind., and there his death occurred 
in 1891. His wife is still living, resides on the old homestead in this county, where 
they settled in 1843, and enjoys comparatively good health. The youthful days of 
our subject were passed on his father's farm and in the common schools, where he 
received a good practical education. Feeling the need of a better education he 
entered Northern Indiana College, where he remained for some time, and then 
branched out as an educator, teaching the young idea for about three years. He 
began his career as an instructor when eighteen years of age, taught during the 
winter months and worked on the farm during the summer. When twenty-one 
years of age he began his career as a business man, first as clerk in a grocery 
store owned by G. W. Buffum, South Bend, Ind. Two years later he and J. E. 
Williams (a brother-in-law), bought the stock of Mr. Buffum and continued the 
business until 1890, when he sold out to his partner. He is one of the originators 
of the Sandage Steel Skein Company, which was established in 1885, and is now the 
most efficient president of the same. This company employs seventy skilled work- 
men and is doing a prosperous business. Mr. Reamer is just in the prime of life, 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIASA. 83 

and the high reputation he has always borne, together with his wide acquaintance in 
business and social circles, serves to stamp him as a gentleman with whom business 
relations must be pleasant and profitable to all concerned. He was married in 1874, 
to Miss Mabel Williams, a native of St. Joseph county, this State, and two children 
have been given them: Sumner, now sixteen years of age, and Florence Ann, four 
years of age. In politics Mr. Reamer is an uncompromising Republican, as was 
his father before him, and socially he is a member of the Maccabees. He is one of 
the honorable, upright citizens of the city, and possesses excellent business qualifica- 
tious and good habits. His parents were early and prominent members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. His paternal grandfather was a native of Germany, 
and was one of three brothers who- emigrated to the United States at a very early 
date and settled in Pennsylvania. There his death occurred. 

WiLsox Slabaugh. Prominent among the early pioneers of Elkhart county, Ind., 
were the Slabaughs, who were descendants of a prominent German family and inher- 
ited all the thrift and enterprise characteristic of the Teutonic element. The great 
great-grandfather of our subject, William H. Slabaugh, was Ixjrn in Alsace, Ger- 
many, was married there to Miss Elizabeth , and five children were born to 

them: John, Christian, George, Philip and Maria, all of whom grew to mature 
years in the old country, but finally emigrated to the '"land of the free."' The 
father lived to be ninety-nine and the mother one hundred years of age. The five 
children, thinking to better their condition, emigrated to America and settled in 
Lancaster county, Penn., at a very early date. There they married and reared 
families and received their final summons. The great-grandfather of our subject 
was George, who married in Pennsylvania a Miss Rosina Eshleman, who was also 
born in the Fatherland, but who came to this country with her parents when butseven 
years of age. The following children were bom to this union: John, Jacob, Lewis 
and Christian. The youngest of these children, Christian, the grandfather of our 
subject, was married in Pennsylvania to Miss Nancy Rhodes, a daughter of Henry 
Rhodes, who was of German birth and an early pioneer of Pennsylvania. Thirteen 
children were the fruits of this union, and the most of them were reared in Colum- 
biana county, Ohio, whither the family had moved at an early date. In the Buck- 
eye State the father died at the age of fifty- three and the mother at the age of sixty- 
five. They were well-to-do people and highly respected. Up to the last generation 
the Slabaughs were all farmers and prominent in their calling. The children of the 
last mentioned couple were named as follows: Christian (father of subject), Elias, 
John, Amos, George, a farmer in Union township; Henry, Isaac, Fianna, the wife 
of Solomon Berlin of the county (see sketch): Julia, wife of Josiah Berlin; Mary, 
wife of Patrick Richmond, who died in the late war, and later the wife of P. S. 
Hare, of Nappanee; Elizabeth, married Henry Eby, of Locke township, this county; 
Lucy, wife of L. Miller (deceased), subsequently married AVilliam Rosenberger. of 
Nappanee; and Samuel, died in Ohio, when young. Christian, the second child 
and the father of our subject, was born in Lancaster county, Penn., and when seven 
years of age was brought by his parents to Ohio, growing to manhood on his father's 
farm in that State. When twenty- nine years of age he married Miss Sophia Wal- 
ters, a native of Wayne county, Ohio, born in 1833, and the daughter of Henry and 
Rebecca (Witmyer) Walters. Thirteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wal- 
ters and named as follows: Enoch, Jacob, David, Sophia, Abraham, Samuel, Eli, 
Rebecca, Fannie, John, Joseph, Henry and Catherine. AU these children are liv- 
ing with the exception of Rebecca and Fannie, and all married and reared families 
except the latter, who died young. After marriage Christian Slabaugh and wife 
emigrated to Elkhart county, Ind. This was in 1854 and they settled on the farm 
where they now live. Mr. Slabaugh had only enough money to buy eighty acres 
and for many years he and wife were obliged to economize in every way. They 
experienced all the hardships and trials of the early settlers but brighter days were 
before them. Their children, three in number, were born in Ohio. The eldest, 



84 PICTORIAL AXU BIOORAPHICAL 

Lydia, was born August 5, 1849, became the wife of J. W. Albin, of Union town- 
ship (see sketch). Wilson (subject), the second in order of birth, was born in Sep- 
tember, 2, 1851, in Portage county, and Franklin, born February 22, 1853, 
died when fifteen years of age. The house in which all the children were born is 
still standing in Portage county, Ohio, and is an old landmark, now over one hun- 
di-ed years old and built on the Western Reserve. Christian Slabaugh and wife are 
still living on the old home place and are much respected by all favored with their 
acquaintance. Although well advanced in years they have not given up the active 
duties of life and the father still carries on the old farm. He has ever been inter- 
ested in the progress and improvement of the county and is a good citizen and pub- 
lic-spirited man. For the past four years Wilson Slabaugh, the subject of this 
sketch, has made his home in Nappauee, and is the only one of the family who has 
branched out from the beaten track of agricultural pursuits. He is at present a 
member of the firm of Walters & Slabaugh, which is doing a thriving business in 
lumber and the saw and planing mill business in this town. Mr. Slabaugh was 
only two years old when they moved to Elkhart county, and he was reared in the 
woods of Union township and attended the schools of the neighborhood. He ob- 
tained a good business education, which he has applied to a good purpose, and 
assisted his father on the farm until ISSO, when he started out to till the soil for 
himself. After following this occupation until 1887 he came to Nappanee and 
embarked in the lumber business, which has since grown to large proportions. 
He first began by burning charcoal and after following this successfully for some 
time, engaged in the lumber business with Mr. Jacob Walters. They are now doing 
a good business and are wide-awake, enterprising business men. Mr. Slabaugh 
takes a deep interest in church matters, and in politics is a Prohibitionist, although 
formerly a Democrat. Public spirited and warm hearted, he has a vast number of 
friends. On December 15, 1882, he married Miss Amanda A. Bechtel, a native 
of Elkhart county, Ind., born November 16, 1860, and one of nine children born to 
Daniel and Sarah (Neiter) Bechtel. To Mr. and Mrs. Slabaugh have been born 
five children, all sons, as follows: Floyd B., Franklin E., Daniel W., Chris E. 
and John W. Mr. and Mrs. Slabaugh attend the Methodist Episcopal Church and 
are classed among the leading people of Nappauee. 

Fredeick W. Mueller. It is universally conceded that the distribution of food 
products constitutes the most important factor in the long list of a city's industries, 
and, such being the case, the grocer must be accorded the palm as the most 
important contributor to the development of this fact, his wares covering almost 
every article of daily consumption known to man. This branch of mercantile 
activity is ably represented in South Bend, Ind., h\ the popular and well appointed 
establishment of Mr. Fredrick W. Mueller, located at 139, South Michigan street. 
Mr. Mueller was born in Jefferson county. Wis., October 2, 1853, and is a sou of 
John M. and Elizabeth B. (Meyer) Mueller, natives of Bavaria, Germany. The 
father was born June 22, 1822, and first set foot upon American soil in 1847. 
For about six months he made his home in South Bend, but in 1848 he went to 
Jefferson county. Wis., where he passed the remainder of his days, dying in 1881. 
He was a farmer for many years, but was also engaged in many business enter- 
prises, and at the time of his death was in the hotel business at the county seat of 
Jefferson county. His wife was born in 1822 and now resides at Jefferson, Wis. 
Fredrick W. Mueller, the eldest of five living children, supplemented a common- 
school education by two terms in the North Western University at Watertown, 
Wis. , and subsequently began learning the harness makers' trade in the shop of 
Charles Weiss, at Jefferson, Wis. Later he was in the harness makers' business 
at De Pere, Wis., and in 1872 came to South Bend, Ind., where he followed his 
trade for one year. In the spring of 1874 he entered the employ of Louis Nickel, 
and continued with him until 1880, when he engaged in the grocery business for 
himself at his present place of business. He has made hosts of friends in con- 



MEMOIRS OF lyDTAXA. 85 

sequence of his ability and integrity, and justly merits the abundance of success 
that has attended his well directed efforts. He was married in 18S0 to Miss Anna 
M. Sack, a native of South Bend and the daughter of Dr. J. C. Sack, who came here 
about 1851. Four children have been the result of this union: Edward C. M., 
Thekle E. , Gretchen E. and Gertrude. In politics Mr. Mueller is a Democrat, 
and socially he is a member of Kobert Blum Lodge, No. 287, I. O. O. F., Royal 
Arcanum, A. O. U. W. and South Bend Turner. He is one of the most thorough- 
going, enterprising business men of the city. 

Noah Rensbeeger, dealer in general merchandise at Walkerton, is an intelligent 
man of affairs and his establishment is well stocked with all necessary articles 
required by the farmers and townspeople in his section of the county. He is a prod- 
uct of Holmes county, Ohio, where he first saw the light of day on the 4th of 
March, 1854, his parents, Jacob and Anna (SchafFer) Rensberger, being also natives 
of the Buckeye State, although of German descent. The paternal grandfather was 
a soldier in the Continental Army during the war of the Revolution. Jacob Rens- 
berger was successfully engaged in farming the greater portion of his life, and fol- 
lowed that calling in Ohio until his removal, in 1857, to St. Joseph county, Ind. 
He took up his residence on a farm in the vicinity of Lakeville, but subsequently 
removed to Walkerton, where he was called from this life in 1874. His wife died the 
same day of the firing on Fort Sumter. The following are the children born to this 
worthy couple: Mose, of Lakeville, Indiana; Elizabeth, wife of Henry Hoover; 
Mary, wife of F. G. Conrad; Sarah, wife of Edson Spencer; Eli, of Walkerton, and 
Noah, who is the youngest of the family. The latter was an infant when his parents 
came to St. Joseph county, Ind., and in the public schools of this section he 
received his education. When his father located in Walkerton he entered the store 
of T. J. Wolfe, where he remained as a clerk for seventeen years, never beiug away 
from the post of duty more than two weeks during the entire time, that absence being 
caused by the untimely death of his estimable wife. He was faithfulness itself to the 
interests of his employer, and during this long period of clerical work, he obtained a 
thorough insight into the business, which proved of great benefit to him when he 
came to open his present establishment, to which many of his old customers followed 
him and now give him a fair share of their patronage and support. In December, 
1891, he opened his present house and now has one of the neatest and best stocked 
stores in the town. His strict integrity is well known, and this, with his genial and 
accommodating ways, have been the means of building up his present extensive pat- 
ronage. He was first married to Martha Ake, who died after bearing her husband 
three children, two of whom are living : Delbert and Edna. His second union was 
to Miss Mary Scoles, who lived but six days after their marriage. His present wife 
was Miss Anna Faulkner, of North Liberty, to whom has been given one child: 

. Mr. Rensberger has passed through many trials and disappointments, but 

pluck and untiring energy have conquered adverse fortune, and he now finds himself 
embarked on a smooth sea with the wind and tide in his favor. Politically he is a 
stanch Republican. 

E. J. Vincent. The furniture trade of Walkerton is ably represented by Mr. 
Vincent, who deals in a fine class of goods, sells it at reasonable prices, and has 
gained an excellent reputation for just methods. He is a native of Mishawaka, Ind., 
where he was born on the 19th of August, 1846, to Benjamin H. and Betsey (Ellis) 
Vincent, the former a native of England and the latter of Ohio. The father came to 
the United States at the age of twenty years, and from the city of New York, where he 
landed, removed at once to St. Joseph, Mich., thence to Mishawaka, and from there 
to South Bend. Having served a seven years' apprenticeship at the cabinet maker's 
trade in his native land, he worked at the same in Mishawaka and South Bend for a 
number of years, but in 1848 removed to the farm now occupied by Alexander Vin- 
cent, a brother of the subject of this sketch. There were 120 acres in the place at 
the time of his purchase, and beiug its third owner the place was fairly well 



86 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

improved, there being a good frame dwelling bouse on it, and twelve or thirteen 
acres of cleared laud. Of this place be made a valuable and finely improved farm in 
a comparatively short time, through earnest and persistent efforts, but his last days 
were spent in the town of Walkerville, where he was called from this life in January, 
1883. His widow and five of the seven children born to him survive him, the names 
of the latter being : E. J. ; Louisa, wife of T. H. Daugherty ; Alexander ; Albert , 
and Martha, wife of Franklin Fischer. E. J. Vincent remained with his parents on 
the farm until he was twenty-three years of age, and although his educational advan- 
tages were very limited he secured a practical knowledge of carpentering. He made 
a study of "Hatfield's House Carpentering," after which he began working by the 
day. From 1869 to 1876 he was engaged in the various occupations of railroading, 
milling, clerking and contracting in house carpentering, and on November 28, 1876, 
in company with a partner, he opened a furniture store in Walkerton, and has since 
devoted his attention to this business. The first room in which they displaj'ed their 
stock was 20x35 feet, with workshop above. They now occupy a fine building 
40x75 feet, which Mr. Vincent himself erected, and a great deal of the stock is of 
Mr. Vincent's own manufacture. He keeps a reliable line of goods and as it is well 
known that he believes in fair dealing, he has a liberal patronage. He filled the 
position of town treasurer for two terms, has been a member of the school board, 
in which he has held all the ofiices from secretary to president, and in various other 
ways he has interested himself in the affairs of his section. He is a member of the 
A. "F. &A. M.,theK. of P. and politically is a Republican. In July, 1869, he 
was married to Rebecca S. Woodward, by whom he has six children: Clyde, Walter, 
Edna, Arthur, Elliott, and Raymond, who is the eldest. Mr. and Mrs. Vincent are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

E. I. Leibole. The city of South Bend offers excellent opportunities for the 
contractor and builder, and one of the leading representatives in this line of business 
is E. I. Leibole, whose home has been at Walkerton, this county, since 1875. As a 
practical mechanic in all kinds of woodwork, scroll-sawings and wood turning, he 
is an expert, and his reputation in this regard has not been confined to the imme- 
diate vicinty in which he lives, but has extended all over the county. He also man- 
ufactures and sells bee supplies; also all kinds of ladders. He was born in Stark 
County, Ohio, February 9, 1837, to Daniel and Catherine (Richards) Leibole, who 
were born in Pennsylvania and New York respectively, and were of German descent. 
The father was a worthy "son of the soil," and in his youth was taken by his 
adopted parents to Stark county, Ohio, and is now a resident of Akron. His wife bore 
him a large family of thirteen children, as follows: Ernest I. , Eliza, Samuel, Henry, 
Hiram, Nancy, Elizabeth, Frank and Mattie, living; remainder deceased: William, 
who was wounded in battle at Chattanooga, and died from the effects of his wounds, 
at which time he held the rank of lieutenant; Jacob, who was wounded at the battle 
of Chickamauga, died from its effects; Daniel was killed in a railroad accident; and 
a sister who died unnamed. E, I. Leibole lived on a farm in Stark county, Ohio, 
until twenty years of age, during which time he attended the district schools and 
Mount Union Seminary, but, in 1856, he removed to Elkhart, Ind., where he fol- 
lowed carpentering and teaching school until the opening of the Civil war, in 1861, 
and in the early part of that year his name could be found on the rolls of Company K, 
Seventy-fourth Indiana Volunteers, but he was subsequently discharged from this 
regiment, and for some time was in the secret service. After quitting this he helped 
to recruit the One Hundred and Fifty-second Regiment, in which he held the commis- 
sion of first lieutenant. While in the service he had his right thumb shot off and re- 
ceived two other slight wounds. After his return home from the war he engaged in 
contracting, and evidences of his handiwork are visible in many of the towns within a 
radius of thirty or forty miles — notably in South Bend, where he helped to build many 
of the leading houses there when its first boom was on. In Walkerton he remodeled 
and rebuilt the "Knott Flouring Mill;" also the principal business houses here as 



.MEMOIRS OF IXDIAS^A. 87 

■well. He built a handsome church for the Presbyterians at Union Mills, and 
wherever this kind of work is to be done Mr. Leibole is sure to be called upon. 
For all kinds of " jig " or scroll-work and wood-cutting, he is amply prepared at bis 
thoroughly equipped shop in Walkerton. He employs during the season from six 
to twelve hands, and is prepared on short notice to furnish plans and specifications 
as well as furnish material, and is at all times able to give satisfactory references 
that his work will he done according to contract. In 1866 he was united in mar- 
riage to Miss Mary J. Antrim, and their union has resulted in the birth of the fol- 
lowing children: Ida, Frank, Lola, Milton D., Bertha, Vesta and Leger. Mr. 
Leibole is a member in good standing of the I. O. O. F., and also belongs to the 
G. A. E. 

George J. Eockstroh. The question of food supplies is one of the first with 
which the human family have to grapple, and viewing the competition from a 
commercial standpoint it will be admitted that the well-appointed grocery establish- 
ment furnishes the largest share toward the solution of the problem of feeding 
the masses. "The food we eat " is a vitally important question, and one that 
concerns the health and happiness of every man, woman and child. One of the 
finest appointed grocery stores in the city of South Bend, is that conducted under 
the firm title of L. Nickel Jr. & Co. , and of which Mr. Eockstroh is a member. 
Born in South Bend, Ind. , September 12, 1855, Mr. Eockstroh has ever shown 
much interest in the improvement and advancement of his native city, and is a 
reliable, wide-awake business maa. He comes of German parentage, his father 
and mother, Casper and Elizabeth (Zeitler) Eockstroh, being natives of the Father- 
land. Casper Eockstroh was born in 1827, and crossed the ocean at an early date. 
He settled in South Bend when the city was in its infancy, and followed the 
occupation of a baker and grocer. He was the founder of the extensive business 
now conducted under the firm name of L. Nickel, Jr., & Co., and was highly 
esteemed, both as a business man and citizen. He died in South Bend in 1867. 
His wife was born about 1833 and still resides in South Bend. George J. Eock- 
stroh, the yoiinger of two children born to his parents, was educated in the common 
schools and at an early age learned the baker's trade of his father. Later he 
engaged in the grocery business, and when twenty-one years of age branched out in 
business for himself, becoming a member of the present firm. This is one of the 
most extensive retail groceries in north Indiana, and is provided with every con- 
venience for business purposes and contains one of the finest lines of fancy and 
staple groceries to be found in the city. The members of the firm are men of 
energy and uprightness, and have won success by honestly deserving it. Mr. 
Eockstroh selected his life companion in the person of Miss Emma Muessel, a native 
of South Bend, Ind., and their nuptials were celebrated in that city in 1878. One 
child, Louis H. , has been born to this union. An ardent Democrat in his political 
views, Mr. Eockstroh has ever advocated the principles of his party. He is one 
of the city's representative citizens, and a shrewd, far-seeing business man. 

Calvert H. Defrees, contractor and dealer in paving material, sewer connec- 
tion, sewer pipe, etc., and also manufacturer of artificial stone, is one of the busiest 
men in South Bend, and owing to the promptness in meeting the demands upon his 
time, and his strict honesty in his dealings, he has prospered financially. He is a 
product of the city in which he lives, which has every reason to be proud of his indus- 
trious and honorable career, his birth occurring to Joseph H. and Sarah (Calvert) 
Defrees, in 1859, his parents being still residents of South Bend. His boyhood was 
spent here, and during the time that he was a student in the public schools he 
made fair progress in his studies. He has for some time been engaged in his pres- 
ent occupation, which is proving not only profitable but also congenial, and owing 
to the thorough knowledge which he has acquired of his work, his patronage is 
large. In 1878 he was united in marriage to Miss Ella Curl of South Bend, 
daughter of Joseph and Mary Curl, but in 1883 this estimable lady was called from 



88 



PICTORIAL .LSD BIOGRAPHICAL 



lito. having borue her biisbaud two ebildreu: Grace E. and Joseph W. After 
remaiiiiui; a widower for two years Mr. Defrees led to the altar Miss Mary S. Brown 
of Miohigan. a daughter of D. G. and Dorsey (^Kobiusou) Brown, who were born in 
Euglaud. They removed from Yorkshire, Eutjlaud, to the United States about 
lSr>l, and took up their residence in the Lake State, where their daughter, Mrs. 
Defrees. was born in 1S5S. Mr. Defrees" second union has resulted in the birth of 
the following children: Victor W., Frank C. and Dorsey I. Mrs. Defrees is a 
member of the Episcopal Church, and is a lady of much intelligence, relinement and 
genuine kindness of heart. Mr. Defrees is proud to call himself a Kepublican, and 
supports the measures of this party at all elections. Socially, he is a member of 
tlie Koyal Arcanum, and is also an honored member in that worthy order — the K. 
P. He is an expert paver, for he has spent most of his life at this business, and 
many of the tine streets of South Bend are the products of his skill. 

ExiAsrtL R. WiLxs. South Bend, Ind., has no more highly honored citizen within 
its coriK>rate limits that he whose name heads this sketch, and ever since his 
residence here he has been prominent in all good works and has made a host of 
friends by his correct mode of living. He owes his nativity to York county, Penn., 
where he was Ixjrn October 1, 1S40, to Lewis and Magdaliue (Fleshman") Wills, 
worthy and prominent people of York county. Emanuel K. Wills was ambitions 
of increasing his worldly possessions and for this purpose turned his face westward, 
and March. lS6o, fotind him in Indiana. His youthful advantages for acquiring an 
education were eseeeilingly limited, but he possessed natural abilities of an excellent 
order, and such opportunities as he did receive were made the most of. He 
received competent instruction in the art of agriculture on his fathers farm in Penn- 
sylvania, but this occupation did not suit his tastes and he wisely decided to devote 
his life to some other more congenial occupation. Upon coming to South Bend he 
began clerking in a dry goods store, after which he opened a grocery store on his 
own account, which he conducted for about five years, at the end of which time he 
discontinued the business and once more resumed his clerical duties in a dry goods 
establishment. In ISS'2 he was electeil to the position of city treasurer, and so ably 
did he till this office for two years that In ISSi he was elected on the Democratic 
ticket, which he had always supported, to the office of cormty treasru'er, which he 
held by re-election two terms of two years each. He made a beau ideal public 
officer, being faithful, efficient and courteous, and in 1S91 was appointed county 
asses-sor by tbe county commissioners, which office he held to the end of his term. 
In 1ST4 he married Margaret Coquillard. daughter of Benjamin and Sophia Coquil- 
lard, and their union has resvilted in the birth of live children, the eldest of whom 
died in infancy. The others are Leo, Edmond, Florentine and Adele. Mr. and 
Mrs. Wills are members of the Catholic Church. 

WiLUAM D. RocKHiLL is oue of those thrifty and energetic farmers for which 
St- Joseph county, Ind., has become well known, and in the conduct of his affairs 
has shown good judgment and business foresight. He was born in Ohio on the 
30th day of July, 1S23. but his worthy parents, W'iHiam and Elizabeth (Dobbins) 
Rockhill, were natives of Xew Jersey, from which State they removed to Lebanon, 
Warren Co., Ohio, about iSOo. at which time both were about twenty years of age. 
The father was a practical mechanic and for some time worked with a Mr. Peacock, 
the manufacturer of the Peacock plow, but after removing to Lebanon, Ohio, he 
began manufactnring plows on his own responsibility and made various valuable 
improvements to the Peacock plow. About the year 1S25 he removed with his 
family and personal effects to Lexington. Ky., and there for about twelve years he 
employed from eight to twelve men in the manufacture of his plows and did a profit- 
able business. About that time he almost loss his sense of hearing and for that 
reiison decided to change his business, and anticipating the fact that slavery would 
cause trouble in Kentucky he decided to take up his residence in St. Joseph county, 
Ind. ; and after arriving in this section in the fall of 1S36 he at once turned his 



MEyiOIBS OF INDIANA. 89 

attention to farming, but unfortunately did not live long enough to perfect his 
plans, for in 1841 he was taken sick with erysipelas from which he died. His was 
said to be the first case of the kind in St. Joseph county. He was of English descent, 
a man of admirable principles and his death was felt as a personal loss by the 
citizens of his section. His widow survived him until 185-1:, at which time she also 
paid the last debt of nature. She bore her husband four daughters and two sons, 
all of whom grew to maturity. William D. was their third child and until about 
thirteen years of age the most of his life was spent in Kentucky, in which State all 
his schooling was received. After the death of his father he carried on the home farm 
until he was twenty-nine years of age. In lSri2 he married Miss Sarah Keeley, who 
was born in Ohio and died October 30, 1890, being a daughter of Daniel and Rhoda 
Keeley, who were natives of the Buckeye State and became residents of St. Joseph 
county about 1845. To Mr. Rockhill and his wife four children have been born, 
three living: Daniel K., Thomas J. and Hannah E., wife of Edward F. Voght; 
and Newton J., who died when an infant. Mr. Rockhill is a member of the Grange, 
and is one of the successful farmers of the county. In 1876 he was elected one of 
the commissioners of St. Joseph county, in which capacity he served six consecutive 
years and in 1892 was elected county assessor. He was one of the organizers of the 
St. Joseph County Agi-icultural Society, of which he was one of the directors, and 
also the Farmer's Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He cast his first presidential 
vote for Henry Clay, but since 1872 has strongly opposed the Republican party. 
He resides just outside the city limits of South Bend, on a twelve-acre tract where he 
has a very comfortable and neat residence. Besides this property he also owns two 
farms in Warren township, both of which are under cultivation and well improved. 
He has been an active worker for the good of his section and is ever ready to assist 
in the advancement of the best interests of his State and country. 

Michael Augustine is the owner of a valuable farm of 360 acres nine miles west 
of South Bead, and a fine little tract of fifteen acres near the city limits. He is one 
of the oldest residents of the county. He is a son of Michael and Hannah (Hook) 
Augustine, who were natives of Germany. He was born in the old country, March 
7, 1814. In order to accumulate a competency and make a home for their children, 
his parents braved an ocean voyage in a sailing vessel aud came to this country. 
They settled in Pennsylvania, remaining there about twelve years, aud from there 
they moved to Ohio, and in 1838 came to St. Joseph couuty, but after a residence 
of two j'ears went to Iowa, where they died at an advanced age. The father was a 
successful farmer. Michael Augustine, the subject of this sketch, removed to Ohio 
with his parents, where he remained until his marriage to Nancy Moss, which occurred 
in that State in 1836. They then came to St. Joseph county, Ind., and began clear- 
ing up a farm in Warren township. From this marriage were born ten children. 
The eldest, Mrs. Cornelius Wykoff, is a resident of Iowa. The eldest son, John, 
resides in Kansas, and the remaining seven living are all prosperous farmers and 
residents of St. Joseph county. Mr. Augustine held the one strong idea that when 
young aud ia the full possession of health and vigor was the time to prepare for rest 
and ease in old age, therefore, as his children became grown and were ready to settle 
in life he helped each one to a farm and placed them in a position to help them- 
selves, aud it is his pride to look around on his children and know that not one has 
disappointed him. Oae daughter. Mrs. Kate Line, died in 1870. Mr. Augustine 
has been twice married. The maiden name of his present wife was Mary Ritter, 
who was born in Ohio in 1820. She was a daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Witter) 
Ritter, who came from Virginia to this State aud county in its early settlement. To 
this marriage two children have been born, one of whom died in its infancy. The 
remaining one, a daughter, is the wife of Francis Dunn, of St. Joseph county. 
Seventeen years ago Mr. Augustine left the farm aud moved to where he now resides, 
in the vicinity of South Beud. Here he is very comfortaljly situated, and by all 
that know him is considered one of the prosperous German-American citizens of the 



90 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

county and an honorable and upright man. He has always been a hard worker, 
and as a result, is in aifiuent circumstances. Upon first coroing to this section of 
Indiana the Indians were numerous and the country was but little settled. He has 
witnessed many changes during his residence here; the gradual dying out of the 
Indians, and the transformation of the wilderness into line farms and thrifty towns 
and cities. He has interested himself in the welfare of his adopted country, and 
schools and churches have especially found in him a liberal patron. He and his 
wife are members of the German Baptist Church, and he has always been a stanch 
Republican. His first presidential vote was cast for William Henry Harrison. 

Robert D. O. Eupel, retail lumber dealer, South Bend. In the various enter- 
prises that have made South Bend an important commercial center in this section of 
the State, the lumber trade has held an important place, employing large capital in 
its conduct, and giving to cognate industries a decided impetus by the energy and 
ability displayed in its development. One of the most active and euterprising of 
men engaged in this line of trade is Robert D. O. Rupel, whose place of business 
is eligibly located at 602 East Jefferson street. South Bend, Ind. He has met with a 
success simply commensurate with the abilities he has displayed and the highest prin- 
ciples and moral business methods which formed the corner-stone of his earliest busi- 
ness career. He was born in St. Joseph county in 1853, and is a son of Jacob P. and 
Ann M. (Stover) Rupel, who are substantial and honored citizens of the county. 
Robert D. O. Rupel was reared on a farm, and while tilling the soil learned the 
truth of the old saying that "There is no excellence without great labor," and 
accordingly he has never hesitated to put his hand to anything he could find to do, 
and thus his efforts have been prospered. He became a resident of South Bend in 
1880, and since that time has followed his present occupation with good results. 
Upon settling in life he took for his wife Miss Anna O. White, of Michigan, daugh- 
ter of David and Marietta (Sosseman) White, her birth occurring near Akron, Oliio, 
on November 28, 1862. She is an intelligent woman, an admirable wife and a kind 
and accommodating neighbor. Mr. Rupel's mother died in 1862, but his father is 
still living and is a resident of this county. 

Louis Nickel. Louis Nickel, Jr., sou of Louis and Eva (Dietz) Nickel, was born 
April 13, 1846, in Bavaria. When Louis was eight years old his mother died, and 
two years later the boy's father, Louis Nickel, decided to take his two children and 
try his fortune in America. In 1857 they took passage at Havre, France, on the 
sailing vessel "Exchange," and after a voyage of thirty-five days they landed in 
New York City. The father being a talented musician employment was found which 
enabled them to remain for several years in the city. He at one time was with Gil- 
more's famous band, and later on a member of Theodore Thomas' splendid orchestra. 

Louis Jr. received most of his schooling before leaving the Fatherland, but 
attended school in New York City about a year, at the same time working, on off 
hours, in a tin shop owned by an uncle. His connection with the tin shop terminated 
under somewhat peculiar circumstances. On one occasion, while wheeling a hand 
cart laden with a half dozen stoves upon the street, the load became too heavy and 
be could go no farther. The police went to the rescue and caused Louis to be taken 
from his uncle, whom they supposed was cruelly using him, revealed the fact that the 
boy had simply over-estimated his physical strength. Louis next engaged himself to 
the paper hanging and window shade business as errand boy, receiving for his serv- 
ices §1.50 per week. During this period he learned the full value of a penny and 
often knew what hunger meant. After a time a similar position in a rubber manu- 
factory offered an opening and better compensation. ■ Receiving .S3 per week, he 
worked faithfully for this firm for three years. Soon after entering the employ of 
this house, his honesty, which had been tested and found sound, was honored by 
unusual trusts. He was given the key to the office and was often sent to the bank 
to deposit sums of money amounting sometimes to as much as 86,000. Errand boy's 
work could not last forever, so he resolved to learn a trade. He now became 



MEMOIRS OP I If DIANA. 91 

apprenticed to a firm engaged in the manufacture of jewelers' tools. The first year 
in this service brought him $1.50 per week; the second year $2, and the third year 
S3. During this apprenticeship he used what spare time could be found in attend- 
ing the Cooper Institute, availing himself of the advantage of the instruction given 
there in mechanical branches. Before securing an entrance into the Cooper Insti- 
tute he was required to present a certificate showing that he was a laboring boy. 
In these days Louis did not know the meaning of pocket money and the stern les- 
sons in economy continued. At the end of the three years he went to Paterson, N. J. , 
and there secured employment as journeyman in Roger's Locomotive Works. 
Louis Nickel, Sr., some time before, had gone west and located in South Bend, 
Ind. Acting upon the advise and desire of his father, the young man resolved 
to see for himself what the west oifered, and came to South Bend, Ind., in 
January, 1870. He was soon engaged as machinist in the Singer Manufactur- 
ing Company. Later he approached T. M. Bissell, of the Oliver & BisseU 
Manufacturing Company, for employment. He was now twenty-three years of age, 
but younger in appearance. Mr. B. asked how much experience he had had, and 
when the young man answered " nine years," he was informed that the firm was in 
the habit of employing more experienced men. Louis was not to be dismissed so 
easily and insisted that Mr. B. give him one week's trial, at the end of which time, 
if the work did not prove satisfactory, he was to receive no reward. About this time, 
the reader will remember, the Franco-Prussian war was attracting general attention 
and interest. 

Well, at the end of that trial week Mr. Bissell went to Louis and said: "Are you 
a Prussian or a Frenchman?" the prompt reply was, "I am an American citizen." 
"Then you are all right; come right along to work," said Mr. B. He remained 
in the employ of this firm two and a half years, or until he went into business for 
himself. Mr. Nickel then purchased a half interest in the Rockstroh bakery, his 
associate in business being Mrs. Casper Rockstroh. This partnership lasted until 
he became associated with his present partner, J. G. Rockstroh. In the beginning 
of the bakery enterprise about seventy loaves of bread was the daily product, but 
with increased facilities the present daily output averages 1,500 loaves, besides cakes, 
pies and other baking. Mr. Nickel's firm has a well-appointed and heavily stocked 
grocery store in connection with the bakery and restaurant, employing a large force 
of workmen and clerks, and enjoying an extensive and steadily growing patronage. 
The fame of the Nickel restaurant extends far beyond the boundary limits of South 
Bend, or even Indiana. Mr. Nickel has also gained an enviable reputation as a 
caterer. He is noted for his rare business capacity, his indomitable push and 
energy, his perseverance and industry. Coupled with these are exceptionally 
attractive social qualities that have made his name a household word with thousands 
who have tested the excellence of his viands. Mr. Nickel has taken an active inter- 
est in the Turners' organization, having served as its president two terms, and 
treasurer of the same for a year. He is a stockholder in the Northern Indiana 
Hedge Fence Company. He is identified with several lodges — the A. F. & A. M., 
the Knights Templar, the I. O. O. F., being centennial noble grand and a delegate 
to the grand lodge at Indianapolis in 1876. He also holds membership in the Order 
of Elks. In December, 1871, he was united in marriage to Miss Kate Rockstroh. 
Their one child, Louise, recently graduated with marked honors from St. Mary's 
Academy. On January 18, 1893, Gov. Matthews commissioned Mr. Nickel as a 
member of his staff, with the rank of major, in recognition of his sterling qualities 
as a citizen, and his sturdy devotion to the welfare of the commonwealth. This 
high compliment came to Mr. Nickel wholly unsought, and is the first recognition of 
the kind accorded to any South Bender for many years. Those who know the 
gentleman thus honored feel confident that Mr. Nickel will do honor to the position 
and prove a credit to the State. 

Oliver M. CnsNiNGHAii. South Bend has its fall quota of vigorous, intelligent, 



92 PICTORIAL -LVZ) BIOGRAPHICAL 

well-posted lawyers, whose popularity is based upon their thorough understanding 
of the law in all its details and who are forcible and convincing pleaders at the 
bar. None among these is more highly regarded by those who call upon his serv- 
ices than O. M. Cunningham, who wa^ born in Larwill, Whitley Co., Ind., July 5, 
1861, a son of Jonathan and Eliza (Harvey) Cunningham, who were of Scotch- 
Irish descent and natives of the State of Peiinsvlvania. The paternal grandfather, 
Patrick Cunningham, was a native of Ireland, but became an American citizen in an 
early day and participated in the war of iSl'i, being present at the inglorious 
surrender of Hull at Detroit. He is buried on the Tippecanoe battle ground at 
Tippecanoe, Ind. Jonathan Cunningham removed from Pennsylvania to Newark, 
Ohio, and after residing there a few j'ears took up his residence in Whitley county, 
Ind., then in St. Joseph county, where he was called froQi life in 1879. his widow and 
five children survive him, the names of the latter being Andrew, Mrs. Ella Moore 
of Lakeville, Oliver M. , Arthur and Emmet. Four children are deceased. O. M. 
Cunningham resided on a farm until ten j'ears of age, then went to live with his 
sister, by whom he was reared. His early education was obtained in the district 
schools and was completed at Valparaiso, Ind., from which institution he graduated 
in 1881. He began teaching in the district schools at the age of sixteen years, and 
in that way obtained his money with which to further his studies. Immediately 
following this he took up the study of law and graduated from the law department 
of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor in 1888. Owing to the ill health of 
his wife he then went to California, but returned to Indiana in August, 1890, and 
has since been an active legal practitioner of South Bend, and has built up a large 
clientele. His knowledge of his profession is very thorough, and it did not take the peo- 
ple of South Bend and vicinitj' long to discover this fact. In 1S92 he was elected to 
the position of city attorney, in discharging the duties of which office he is proving 
his worth. On September 23, 1892, he was nominated on the Democratic ticket for 
circuit prosecutor, and at the November election, 1892, was elected by a large major- 
ity. He has identified himself with the interests of the county, and is considered a 
decided acquisition to the city. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. In Janu- 
ary, 1887, he was united in marriage to Miss May Holler. 

Rev. Amos Bechtel, in addition to looking after the spiritual welfare of his 
fellows, is devoting much of his attention to tilling the soil in Harrison township, of 
which section he has been a resident for thirty years. He was born in Waterloo county, 
Canada, September 28, 1836, a son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Warner) Bechtel, 
the former of whom owes his nativity to Lancaster county. Penn., being a son of Jacob 
Bechtel, who was a native of that State also, but who became one of the early settlers 
of Canada. He reared eleven children: John, Henry, Jacob, AV>raham, Isaac, 
Nancj-, Elizabeth, Mary, Hannah, Catherine and Magdalana. Abraham was two 
years of age when taken to Canada, grew up, married and lived there, but in 1863 
came to Elkhart county, Ind., and died in 1884, at which time he was eighty-seven 
years of age. He was a member of the German Baptist Church. His wife died in 
Canada in 1863. Of the large f amilj' of sixteen children born to this worthy couple, 
twelve are still living: Mary, Nancy, Abraham, William, John, Jacob, Magdaline, 
Noah, Amos, Lydia, Isaac and David. They all grew up in Canada, but a number 
moved to the States. Rev. Amos Bechtel received his education in the district 
schools of Canada, and in his youth became inured to pioneer life, but his early 
struggles taught him self-reliance, energy and thrift. On September 27, 1859, he 
was married to Miss Mary A. Funk, who was born in that section August 24, 
1836, a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Sedcrist) Funk, the former of whom 
was of Buck's county, Penn. He was a son of John Funk, who removed from 
that State to Canada in an early day, but died in Michigan some years since. 
He was married twice, and his first wife was the mother of Mrs. Bechtel, 
whom she left an orphan at the age of nine years. She was one of five 
children: Mary A., John, Samuel, Hannah, and Sarah who died young. The 



MEMOIRS OF lyniAXA. 93 

second marriage resulted in the birth of five children also: Libbie, Henry, Margaret, 
Dennis and Stella. Mrs. Bechtel was reared in the woods of Canada, but about thirty 
years ago came to this country with her husband, and with this section they have been 
identified ever since. They are earnest members of the Brethren in Christ 
Church, in which he has been a minister for the past fourteen years. He is a 
zealous worker for the cause of Christianity and has been since he was thirtj' years 
of age. He worked by the day in Harrison Center upon first coming to this town- 
ship, but in a few years succeeded in purchasing eighty acres of laud, but since 
1885 has owned his farm of ninety- three acres where he is now living. He is a success- 
ful farmer and stcckraiser, and is one of the most prominent of the county's many 
worthy citizens. They have reared eight children and lost two: Leah was born in 
Canada, March 9, 1860, and is the wife of John Stump, living in Union township, 
by whom she has six children: Clara, Charles, Harvey, Yernie, Oscar and Milton; 
Eachel was born in Canada, November 27, 1861, is the wife of Jacob Fulmer, of Con- 
cord township, and has four children: Maude, Walter, Saloma and Truman; Harriet 
was born in Canada, May 13, 1863, and died in Elkhart county, October 2, 1870; 
Lavina was born in this township, .4.pril 16, 1866, is the wife of John Kehr, of Harrison 
township, and has three children: Koscoe, Ray and Dora; Daniel was born April 
15, 1869, and died August 29. 1875; Mary A., was born March 10, 1872, and is the 
■wife of Samuel Troup, of Jackson township, and has one child: Ralph; Amos F. was 
born December 22, 1873; Dora was born March 12, 1876; Rufus was born April 20, 
1878, and Alpha was born September 22, ISSO. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtel occupy a lead- 
ing position among the citizens of their township, and are among the foremost in all 
good works. They are kind and charitable, generous in the use of their means in 
worthy causes, have been faithful and considerate in their family, and their children 
rise up and call them blessed. About fifteen years ago Mr. Bechtel met with quite 
a serious accident while felling timber in the woods, by the tree falling on his right 
leg, and since then he has been slightly crippled. He and his wife have cheerfully 
borne the burden and heat of the day, and are still ready to put their heart in the 
work that is found for them to do. They are a worthy couple in every respect, and 
possess numerous friends. 

J. H. LoDGHMAX is the proprietor of the admirably conducted City Transfer line, 
which business is one of the most convenient to the citizens of South Bend, of any 
establishment there. Among the numerous accessory industries to trade and com- 
merce in all large communities few have received such remarkable development as 
that which has for its object the transfer of freight of all kinds, aud Mr. Loughman 
is one of the leading men engaged in this line of work in South Bend. He was born 
in Licking county, Ohio, October 20, 1845, a son of David and Elizabeth (Martin) 
Loughman. James H. was brought up in his native county on a farm, and in the 
district schools in the vicinity of his home he received his education. In 1864 he 
enlisted to fight his country's battles, and his name could be found on the rolls of 
Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and on North 
Mountain, in West Virginia, he was captured by Gen. Jubal Early, and for eleven 
long months was confined in that foul prison-pen, Andersonville, during which time 
he experienced untold hardships and privations. He was released at Jacksonville, 
Fla., at the close of the war, and in 1866 he took up his residence in Mishawaka, lud., 
where he worked in the George Wilburn Wagon Factory for three years. He was 
next employed In* the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad for one year, but 
in 1873 embarked in the transfer business in Mishawaka on a small scale. One year 
later he became a partner in an undertaking and furniture establishment, the firm 
taking the name of Bernhart & Loughman, but at the end of two years he gave up 
this business and came to South Bend, and for one year thereafter was employed by 
the Lake Shore Railroad Company. Since 1878 he has devoted his attention to his 
transfer business, and his business has grown so steadily and rapidly that instead 
of using one team as he did at first, he now has twelve teams and wagons inactive 



94 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

operation and does an enormous business. All orders receive his immediate atten- 
tion, and are executed satisfactorily and at moderate rates. He is a member of the 
Masonic fraternity, the K. of P., the K. O. T. M., the Turners' Society, the Order 
of Kedmenaud the G. A. R., in which he is past commander. He was a Sir 
Knight in the K. O. T. M. one term. In 1868 he was married to Miss Abbie Cook, 
by whom ho has two children: Grace, wife of A. D. Hubbard, and Frederick. 
Mr. Lougliman started in life with no capital, but by perseverance he has won the 
battle and can now enjoy the fruits of his industry. 

John Steenbero is one of the leading citizens of Harrison township and for nearly 
forty years has taken an active interest in the affairs of that section and has 
done his full share in making it the tine agricultural region that it is. This sub- 
stantial citizen was born in Dauphin county, Penn., on April 8, 1830, and was the 
eldest of seven children reared by Peter C. and Nancy (Finley) Sternberg, both of 
whom were born in Dauphin county, Penn., the former in 1809 and the latter in 1804. 
Peter C. Sternberg was a sou of German parents, who came to this country and 
settled in the State of New York, later taking up their residence in Pennsylvania. 
The paternal grandfather was a carpenter by trade and reared a family of three sons 
and four daughters: Jacob, Peter, Henry, Susan, Polly, Lydia and one whose name 
is not known. Peter C. learned the trade of carpenter and followed it all his life. 
About 1850 he removed to Stark county, Ohio, and in 1858 to Elkhart county, Ind., 
settling on a farm in Harrison township, and in addition to tilling the soil and work- 
ing at his trade, sold pumps. He died in December, 1890, at the age of eighty-one 
years, his wife's death occurring at the age of eighty-two years. They were mem- 
bers of the United Brethren Church and politically he was a stanch Republican. 
His wife was much respected by all who knew her and took an active part in church 
work. She was one of three children, Martha being the only one remembered. 
Mrs. Sternberg bore her husband children as follows: John; Mary A., who is the 
widow of John Smith and is living in Baugo township; Jesse C. was a farmer of Con- 
cord township, and has been dead twenty-six years; Nancy, wife of Samuel Powden 
of Concord township; Jacob died in this county in 1880; Benjamin F. is living in 
Harrison township; and Elizabeth, who is the wife of Henry Ipe, resides in Olive 
township and is the mother of eleven children. John Sternberg was a resident of 
the State of his birth until he was nearly twenty years of age and in the subscrip- 
tion and free schools ol)tained his knowledge of books. \Yhen he was old enough 
he was hired out by his father to work on a farm, and followed this calling until 
about eighteen years of age, when he began learning the carpenter's trade with his 
father and at the age of twenty removed with the family to Ohio. In 1855 he went 
to Minnesota but only remained there live or six months, as he did not like the 
countr}-, and returned east as far as Indiana, settling in Elkhart county, where he 
followed his trade until he once more took up farming in 1859. In 1857 he married 
Miss Leah Dillman, who was born in Lancaster county, Penn., on October 2'^!, 1837, 
being one of eleven children born to Jacob and Mary (Young) Dillman, their names 
being as follows: Catherine (Mrs. Wehr), living in Jefferson township; John, who 
died about thirty-seven years ago; Sarah, who is the widow of David B. Mischler, 
is living in this county; Elizabeth (Mrs. Huffman) is living in Clinton township; 
Reuben is a resident of Harrison township; Mary (Mrs. Luft) lives in this county; 
Leah (Mrs. Sternberg); Molly, who has been dead about twenty-four years, was the 
wife of Daniel Leer of Elkhart township; Samuel, who is living in Elkhart town- 
ship, and two children that died in infancy. The Dillmans are among the early 
pioneers of the county, and Jacob, the father of this family, was born in Lancaster 
county, Penn. He came of German parents and was a wagon and carriage maker by 
trade, a calling he followed until he came to Ohio. In 1853, he removed from Stark 
county of that State to Indiana and thereafter was a farmer of Elkhart township 
until his death in July, 1877. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, was in- 
terested in all church work and held office in the same. Politically he was a Repub- 



MEMOIRS OF INDI^i^A. 95 

lican, was public-spirited aud energetic and reared his children to habits of thrift 
and industry. His wife was born in Lancaster county, Penn., in 1799, and died iu 
Elkhart county, Ind., in 1854. Mrs. Sternberg was a girl of fifteen years when she 
came with her parents by wagon to Indiana, the journey thither occupying about 
sixteen days. She attended school in Ohio aud in this State also and in 1856 was 
united iu marriage with Mr. Sternberg aud with him settled ou the farm on which 
they now live iu 1859. Although they were compelled to work very hard at first 
they gradually got ahead and from time to time increased their landed possessions 
until they are now the owners of 329i acres of finely improved land, which is di- 
vided into three farms, their son Jesse residing on one of 120 acres, of which he 
owns half. Mr. Sternberg is what may be called a self-made man, for what he has 
in the way of worldlj' goods is the result of his own and his wife's hard work. 
They are the parents of six children: Mary, born November 13, 1857, became the 
wife of Henry Dick, aud died October 29, 1884; Loretta E. was born August 22, 
1859, and is the wife of Franklin Burns of Goshen; Jesse, born July 1, 1861, is a 
young farmer of Harrison township, is a Republican in politics, is a public-spirited 
young man and is married to Hattie Snyder, daughter of George Snyder of Elkhart 
township; Benjamin was born March 8, 1863, and died at the age of six weeks; 
Phoebe was born August 1, 1865; aud Harvey, who was born June 14, 1870, is as- 
sisting his father ou the old home place. He is a popular and active young business 
man. Mr. and Mrs. Sternberg are active and worthy members of the Lutheran 
Church, in which he has held the office of trustee and sexton. He is one of the 
most successful agriculturists of the county, is tilling 166 acres of land and is quite 
extensively engaged iu raising stock. He has held one township office, has been 
active in the affairs of his section and politically is a Republican. 

C. J. Gaskill, freight agent of the Chicago & Graud Trunk Railway at South 
Bend, Ind., was born in Battle Creek, Mich., October 24, 1852, a sou of Silas E. 
and Sarah E. (Cox) Gaskill, who were early settlers of Battle Creek. The grand- 
parents were natives of the State of New York, and were of English origin. Silas 
E. Gaskill was a blacksmith and wagon-maker by trade, but in connection with this 
work carried on farming also, in each and all of which occupations he was reasonably 
successful. About 1853 he went to California and located north of San Francisco 
for a number of years. The past ten years he has lived at Campo, San Diego 
county, where he still resides. He was the father of three children: Charles J., the 
subject of this sketch; Henry L., and Mrs. Mary Story of Germantown, Cal. The 
subject of this sketch was taken by his parents to California when two years of 
age, and his initiatory schooling was received in that State. When twelve years of 
age he returned to Battle Creek, Mich., for the purpose of attending school, and 
later in that city and in Galesburg, Mich., he learned telegraphy. His first position 
was on the Michigan Central, where he remained about one month, and in Septem- 
ber, 1873, he became an employe of the Chicago & Grand Trunk Railroad, then 
called the Peninsula Railway, stationed first at Olivet, Mich., and later at School- 
craft for four years. While at that place he was married to Miss Oda E. Hatch, by 
whom he has four children: Avis I. ; Olive; Howard and Gladys. He has been a 
resident of South Bend since January, 1879, and after having charge of the ticket 
office of the Chicago & Grand Trunk Railroad, he was promoted to his present 
position, the business having increased so much that they were compelled to put in 
a "ticket man.'' Mr. Gaskill has made two trips to California since his parents 
moved there, the first trip being made via the Isthmus of Panama, returning the 
same way when twelve years of age. He was in Denver the day the first engine 
was set up to go over the Denver & Rio Grande Narrow Gauge Railroad. Mr. 
Gaskill is one of the organizers and the treasurer of the St Joseph County Loan & 
Savings Association, and being very public spirited is connected with a number of 
other enterprises in the city. He is an intelligent and well-posted mau on the various 
topics of the day, and in his position of freight agent is capable, efficient and energetic, 



96 PICTORIAL AXI) BlOGliAPHICAL 

in fact, the right man in the right place, of which fact his employers are well aware. 
H. L. Gaskill, the brother of C. J., is a dealer iu cigars, tobacco, etc., at 126 West 
AYashington street in South Bend, but was born in Ukiah, Cal., November 13, 1861. 
Wheu four years of age he was brought to Battle Creek, Mich., where he was reared, 
his education being obtained in the public schools. Brought up on a farm he 
followed that occupation until nineteen years of age, when he became an employe on 
the Chicago & Grand Trunk Railroad as freight cashier at South Bend, lud., and 
this position filled with credit to himself from August, 1880, till February, 1889, 
when he engaged in his present business, of which his energy, intelligence and 
knowledge of the wants of the public, have made a paying enterprise. He has the 
finest tobacco establishment of the city, deals in all kinds of the weed, and also 
keeps a tine assortment of pipes, tobacco pouches, etc. He is a pushing and enter- 
prising j'oung business man, and is highly regarded in the commercial circles of 
South Bend. He was married in March, 1887, to Miss Mary E., daughter of Samuel 
Bowman of this city. Mr. Gaskill is a member of the South Bend Valley c»c Gun 
Club, and being of a social and genial disposition is a favorite in society. 

Paul H. Kurtz. The name of this gentleman is a familiar one throughout Elk- 
hart county, Ind.,andis synonymous with the sawmill and farming interests of 
his section. He has been a resident of Harrison township for nearly forty years 
and during this period he has kept his escutcheon untarnished. He was born in 
Stark county, Ohio, on June 18, 1828, being the fourth child born to Henry and 
Catherine (Loehr) Kurtz, the former being a native of Wurtemburg, Germany, 
where he was born in 1796, lived to be seventy-seven years of age and died in Colum- 
biana, Columbiana Co., Ohio. He remained in his native land until about twenty years 
of age, then became an emigrant to America and took up his residence in Bucks 
county, Penu., where he followed the calling of a school teacher. He was married 
thei-e and there made his home until 1825. when they moved to Pittsburg and in 
182/ to Stark county, Ohio. He was a minister of the Lutheran Church until 1826, 
then changed his doctrine and began expounding the faith of the German Baptist 
Church: which he continued to do until death closed his career. From 1842 he was 
a resident of Columbiana coiinty, Ohio, and iu addition to preaching the gospel, he 
also tilled the soil. The old homestead in Ohio is still owned by his son. George 
H. Kurtz. He was successful in a business way, and published a paper called the 
Gospel Monthli/ Visitor, for some years. This paper he established in 1850 and the 
enterprise is still in existence under the name of the Gosjiel Messenger. He devoted 
the most of his energies to religious work, was also a patron of education and was 
himself a fine scholar and a polished gentleman, having thorough command of five 
or more different languages. He wielded a widespread influence for good, ever 
supported the cause of justice and right, and as a natural consequence his friends 
were numerous aud faithful. His widow survived him until 1884, when she, too, 
passed from life in Mahoning county. She was a daughter of Henry Loehr, who 
was a well-known farmer and school teacher of Northampton county. Penu., where 
he was eventually called from life, his widow dying in Ohio at the home of her son 
Jacob Loehr, in Hancock county. The paternal grandfather of Paul H. Kurtz 
George Kurtz, was born October 14, 1745, and died at the age of seveuty-tive years. 
His wife was Henricka Miller, who died on June 15, 1857. at the advanced age of 
eighty-five years The grandfather Loehr died on December 25, 1834, when 
eighty one years of age. The mother of Paul H. Kurtz resided in Pennsylvania 
until her marriage, and being an earnest member of the German Baptist Church 
for fifty-eight years she was of great assistance to her husband in his church work. 
Oiit of seven children born to them only four are living: Harry, who died in Penn- 
s_ylvania in childhood: Henrietta, who was born in Pennsylvania, died in Ohio when 
nine years of age; George H. was born in Pittsburg. Penn., and is living on the old 
home farm in Mahoning county, Ohio; Paul H. ; Christian H.. who died young; 
Henry J., who is living at Covington, Ohio, a man of no family. These children 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIA^A. 97 

received excellent training, were taught to revere the Bible, and have lived to be a 
credit to the parents who reared them. Paul H. Kurtz spent his early life in Stark 
county, Ohio, but from the time he was fourteen year.? of age until he attained his 
twentieth year, his time was spent on a farm in Columbiana county, Ohio. After 
spending two years as an apprentice at the carpenter's trade, he began working at 
that calling and in 1850, with the idea of bettering his financial condition, he came 
to Elkhart county, Ind. , and took up his residence near New Paris. From that 
time until 1853 he erected many houses and barns throughout the county and won 
an excellent reputation as a man who thoroughly understood his calling. In 1852 
Mary P. Shively, who was born in Stark county, Ohio, April 4, 1829, became his 
wife, she being a daughter of Isaac and Susanna (Snyder) Shively, the father 
having come to this section from Stark county, Ohio, in 1847, his death occurring 
here in 1848, leaving a family of nine children: Jonas, Daniel, Mary P., Margaret, 
Susan and Barbara (twins), Joseph, Lydia, Esther, all of whom are living. The 
mother of these children, who was born in Stark county, Ohio, died in Jackson 
township this county, in 1857. The Shivelys were connected with the German 
Baptist Church, in which Isaac Shively was a deacon. Mrs. Kurtz was eighteen 
years of age upon her arrival in this county, and here she resumed an acquaintance 
with Mr. Kurtz which had been commenced when they were children in Ohio. After 
their marriage they kept house in New Paris for one year and from that time until 
1855 they resided on an eighty- acre farm in Kosciusko county. They then located 
at Harrison Center in this county where Mr. Kurtz began giving his attention to 
the saw-mill business with his brother-in-law, Moses Teegarden. While in Kosci- 
usko county Mr. Kurtz built a number of saw-mills, and after going into that busi- 
ness for himself, he operated two mills at once. In 1864 he bought his present 
farm of 160 acres and now has a well-improved place. As a business man he has 
been successful, and this has not been only owing to his intelligent method of con- 
ducting his affairs, but to the fact that he has been very energetic and enterprising. 
He has always been a Eepubiiean in politics and in this respect, as well as in 
various other ways, his sous have followed in his footsteps. He has interested him- 
self in public matters, thoroughly understands the issues of the day, and is a patri- 
otic, whole souled and intelligent gentleman. He and his wife hold to the faith of 
the German Baptist Church, in which he has been a deacon for a number of vears. 
He has been on the committee for the building of two churches, but other worthy 
enterprises also occupy his attention. Nine children have been born to this union: 
Amanda P., born August 2. 1853, died when fifteen months old; Lewis P. was 
born September 10, 1855, and is still with his parents, while his twin sister Cath- 
erine is the wife of Henry Sherman, of Harrison township, and is the mother of 
seven children: Charles, Minerva, Nettie, Oliver, Jerome, Luella and Vernon. 
Henry P. was born August 5, 1857, and is living at Milford, Ind.; Lovina was born 
February 21, 1859, is the wife of Charles Warstler, residing east of Elkhart and 
has one child. Ira; Sarah A., born December 18, 1860, and died in infancy; Daniel 
P., born November 25, 1863; Leander P., born April 10, 1865, and Ida, born July 
29, 1871. Mr. and Mrs. Kurtz were married January 17, 1852. They have a 
commodious and substantial brick residence, which was erected in 1867, which is 
very conveniently arranged. Here they dispense a generous hospitality to the nu- 
merous friends they have gathered about them. 

R. L. Br.a^uxsdorf, of South Bend, Ind., is destined to make his mark in this 
section as an architect of special attainments. He is prepared to make designs for 
and estimate on all classes of proposed new buildings for public and private use, 
preparing all sketches and plana for the same, and studiously embodying everv wish 
and suggestion of his clients. His plans are both practical and economical; modern 
ideas are noticeable features, coupled alike with symmetry and architectural beauty. 
His estimates and computations are always accurate and not exceeded in actual con- 
struction, and under his supervision the specifications are most rigidly adhered to. 



98 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Mr. Braunsdorf is a native of Dantzig, Germany, where he was born July 25, 1843, 
a sou of John G. and W. J. Braunsdorf, both of whom spent their lives in the land 
of their Inrth, the father having beeu a shoemaker by occupation. The_y became 
the parents of seven sons and six daughters, six of the sous being now residents of 
the United States but the daughters are still in Germany. R. L. Braunsdorf was 
educated in Holzminden, one of the largest schools of Germany, from which he 
graduated iu 1804. In the Fatherland he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he 
worked for three years while traveling over that country. In 1865 he embarked at 
Hamburg for America and landed at the city of New York, where he remained five 
years, working at his trade. Iu 1871 he came to South Bend, of which place he has 
since been a resident, the first ten years of his stay here being spent in workiug out 
by the day. He then began contracting for himself and subsequently turned his 
attention exclusively to architectural work, for which he possesses decided talent. 
He has filled a number of large contracts in a very satisfactory manner, among which 
maj^ be mentioned Studebaker Bros.' repository of Chicago, and Clem Studebaker's 
residence of South Bend, the residence of F. Fish, of South Bend; the Muessel 
Block; the C. A. Carlisle residence, and many other homes and business blocks which 
are an ornament and credit to the city. Mr. Braunsdorf is a member of the Cath- 
olic Knights of America, is a Democrat politically and served one term as trustee of 
the city water-works. He was married in 1868 to Miss A. W. Mochring, who was 
born in German}', their marriage being celebrated in the city of New York. Of 
seven children born to them the following are living: William H., Walter J., Jo- 
hanna W. and Augusta H. 

Peter Loucks, who is one of the oldest pioneers of Elkhart county, Ind., has 
attained to the advanced age of four-score years and seven, for his birth occurred in 
Westmoreland county, Penu., September 21, 1805. He was married there Feb- 
ruary 1, 1827, to Miss Anna Berkey, who was also a Pennsylvanian, born Sep- 
tember 1, 180S. Soon after their marriage they removed to Ohio, and after resid- 
ing successively in Holmes, Medina and Wayne counties of that State, they, in 1851, 
came to this State and county and settled on the farm where their youngest son, 
Jonas, is living. They purchased I6t1 acres of woodland, on which a small log 
cabin had been erected, and on that farm Peter Loucks has resided ever since. He 
followed the calling of a shoemaker in Ohio, but since his residence in this county 
the most of his attention has been given to farming. He has been a life-long mem- 
ber of the Mennonite Church, is deeply interested in Christian work, and in the 
various affairs of the county he is very public spirited. He is now the oldest pio- 
neer of Harrison township and as he has always endeavored to do what is fair and 
right, he has made numerous friends and few, if any, enemies. He is a man of 
strong convictions, and has ever been a stanch Republican in politics. For the past 
quarter of a century he has been retired from the active duties of life, and well 
deserves this rest after so faithfully and ably bearing the burden and heat of the 
day. His wife was called from life April 1, 1890, at the age of eighty-two years. 
She had been a life-long member of the Mennonite Church, was an exemplary 
Christian, a noble, kind and faithful wife and mother. She bore her husband seven 
sons and five daughters, of which family nine are living: Susanna, born April 28, 
1828, died when four years old; Anna, born August 23, 1829, married David Swope, 
after his death John Buzzard, and died iu 1890; Jacob, born September 9, 1831, is 
living in Olive township; William, born August 20, 1833, is living in St. Joseph 
county, Ind. ; John, born September 18, 1835, is living in Olive township; Sarah, 
born November 29, 1837, is the wife of Tobias Myers; Martin, born March 11, 1840; 
is a resident of Olive township; Isaac, born June 19, 1842, is living in southeast 
Nebraska; Catherine, born July 4, 1844, died after her marriage to Henry J. Culp, 
Peter, born January 22, 1847, is living in Kansas; Mary, born April 24, 1850, is the 
wife of William Holdeman and is living in Concord township, and Jonas, who was 
born January 3, 1853, lives on the old home place. This worthy old couple spent 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 99 

many years of hard work on their pioneer farm, but their work gradually told and 
they at last subdued the forces of nature aud were in possession of a magnificent and 
valuable farm. Jonas Loucks, their youngest son, has resided on the old home 
farm in Elkhart county all his life and in his youth not only obtained a thorough 
education in the commou schools near his home, but also learned lessons of indus- 
try, thrift and economy that have made him the well-to-do man that he is. He 
took the management of the home farm on his shoulders when about twenty-four 
years of age, aud in 1890 bought the place of his father, who still makes his home 
with him. The place contains 160 acres, and although it is one of the oldest farms 
in the county, it has been so carefully managed that it is one of the most fertile of 
farms. Jonas Loucks is a sturdy young farmer of good business ability and devotes 
his farm to the raising of stock and grain. In 1876 he was married to Miss Anna 
Ramer, a native of this county, born. March 9, 1854, a daughter of Tobias and 
Esther (Hoover) Ramer, the former of whom came to this section from Pennsyl- 
vania, married here, and here reared a family of five children: Fannie, Annie, 
Samuel, Martin and Susan. Mr. and Mrs. Loucks have four children: Susanna, 
born November 27, 1878; Martin, born March 25, 1881; Emma, born December 21, 
1884, and Esther, born August 23, 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Loucks are members of the 
Mennonite Church, and he has beeu a preacher of that denomination for the past 
sis years. He is a well-informed and intelligent man and the principles of the 
Republican party have always commended themselves to his judgment. The 
good of his section is of paramount interest with him, and he has done his full 
share in making it the desirable place of residence that it is. 

Jacob Loucks, a well-known, practical aud successful farmer of Elkhart county, 
Ind., was born in Holmes county, Ohio, September 9, 1831, and is a son of Peter 
Loucks, whose sketch precedes this. The maternal grandparents were John and 
Susanna (Buzzard) Berkey, who removed from Pennsylvania to Holmes county, 
Ohio, where they spent the remainder of their days and reared twelve children: 
Christian, George, Isaac, Peter, John, Anna, Elizalieth, Barbara, Margaret, Mary, 
Rachel and Catherine. Peter Loucks was one of eight children as follows: Martha, 
John, Jacob, Henry, Peter, Sally, Mary and Catherine. Besides his own children 
Peter Loucks has sixty-four grandchildren and sixty-two great-grandchildren. The 
early life of Jacob Loucks was spent in Ohio, where he attended the district schools 
and assisted his father in tilling the soil, clearing land, grubbing, etc. After coming 
to this State he was married to Miss Catherine Freed, a daughter of Jacob and Mar- 
garet Holdeman Freed, the former of whom was born in Virginia, a son of Jacob and 
Mary (Bideler) Freed. The grandfather, Jacob, was a resident of the Shenandoah 
Valley in Virginia, was there married, but became a resident of Holmes county, Ohio; 
here he died at the age of eighty-four years. Jacob, the father, was a young man 
when the family moved to Ohio and there he married Anna Freed, who bore him 
two sons, John and Andrew, both of whom became residents of Elkhart county, 
Ind., the latter being deceased. The mother of these children died in Ohio in 1833, 
and three years later the father married Margaret Holdeman, who was a daughter 
of Christian Holdeman, who removed to Columbiana county, Ohio, from Bucks county, 
Penn., where he died. His wife passed from life in Elkhart county in 1865. From 
this couple sprang all the Holdemans of this section. Jacob and Margaret (Holde- 
man) Freed first settled in Holmes county, Ohio, but in 1852 came to Elkhart county 
and began farming in Locke township. The father died April 2, 1869, at the age 
of seventy-two 3'ears, having been a minister of the Mennonite Church for many 
years. His wife passed from life May 30, 1887, at the age of seventy-seven 
years. She was first married to Samuel Yoder, by whom she had five children: 
John, Elizabeth, Jacob, Nancy and Samuel, her second marriage resulting in the 
birth of four children: Catherine, Mary, Joseph and Christian. Joseph was a 
soldier in the Civil war, participated in a number of engagements aud during his 
service died at Jeffersonville, Ind. Mary is the wife of Anthony Whisler of Kansas, 



100 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

and Christina is the wife of Joseph Landis of this county. Mrs. Loucks has been a 
resident of this county since she was fifteen years of age, her birth oceuring Sep- 
tember 14, 1837, and at the age of seventeen she was married. She and her hus- 
band lived in St. Joseph county, this State, until 1891, when they bought the farm 
on which they are now living, in Olive township. They have built a new house and 
barn thereon and have in other ways greatly improved, the fences and outbuilding 
being repaired, etc. Their children are aa follows: William H. , born April 26, 
1851, is married to Elnora Topper, is a resident of St. Joseph county and has five 
children: Franklin, Anna, Jarius, Nora and Dora; Sarah S., born March 23, I860, 
is married to John R. Mikel and has one child: William H. ; Mary E. was born 
April 8, 1862, is the wife of Joseph Dills and has five children: Minnie C, Eva M. , 
Emma A., Alva E., and Sarah E., who is deceased; Andrew M. was born June 6, 
1865, and died when one year old; Jacob O. was born October 15, 1867, is married to 
Barbara E. Anthony, and is living in St. Joseph county and has one child: Bertha E. ; 
Anna Margaret, born August 22, 1870, and Jonas E., born October 12, 1875. Mr. 
and Mrs. Loucks are members of the Mennonite Church, and Mr. Loucks has been 
ordained a minister in the same. As a business man he has been prosperous and 
in the conduct of his affairs he has shown good judgment and much intelligence. 
He has a finely improved farm of 300 acres and still owns his old home in St. 
Joseph county. What he has in the way of worldly goods has been won by hard 
work, and he deserves much credit therefor. He is a Republican politically, and he 
has held official position in St. Joseph county. 

Louis A. Hull, city clerk of South Bend, Ind. The official work of this gentle- 
man has extended over a number of years and has brought him before the gaze of the 
citizens of South Bend, and in him his constituents have found a man of ability and 
integrity, and one whose activities have ever been employed for the good of the 
community. He is a product of Troy, N. Y., where he first saw the light of day Sep- 
tember 3, 1842, his parents being Adolphus and Frances (Moss) Hull, who were born 
in Canada and the Green Mountain State respectively. Adolphus Hull settled in 
Troy, N. Y., about 1840, but in 1856 came westward and took up his residence in 
South Bend, where he is now living, retired from the active duties of life. He and 
his wife became the parents of five sons and one daughter: Louis A. ; George W., 
who is superintendent of the machine department of the Singer Sewing Machine 
Company; Joseph, who is the western agent for the Goodrich Rubber Hose Com- 
pany, of Chicago; Charles, who is engineer of the Singer Sewing Machine Com- 
pany, of South Bend; Fred, who is the proprietor of Hull's Boiler Compound, 
and Mary, wife of J. M. La Pierre, a traveling salesman for Reddell & Reddell, 
wholesale grocers. Louis A. Hull was only thirteen years of age when brought to 
South Bend, but had previously attended the high school of Troy, N. Y., and 
finished his education, so far as books were concerned, in the schools of South Bend. 
At an early day he became a clerk and book-keeper for A. Coquillard Lumber Com- 
pany, but upon the breaking out of the Civil war in 1861, he cast aside personal 
considerations and enlisted to fight his country's battles, believing the "sword to be 
mighter than the pen. " However, he was later transferred to the quartermaster's 
department, as chief clerk of the transportation department, which position he held 
until the war closed. Notwithstanding his desire for actual service in the field, the 
position which he held was a very trying and responsible one for a young man of his 
years, but he showed a remarkable ability in dispatching work, and was always 
accurate, prompt and energetic. The most of the time he was stationed at Nashville, 
Tenn., and after the termination of hostilities he spent about two years in traveling in 
different localities, and up and down the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and on Lake 
Michigan, as clerk on various steamers. In 1868 he returned to South Bend and 
again took upon himself the duties of his old jsosition with the Coquillard Lumber 
Company, of which he remained an honored and trusted employe, until 1870, when 
he was transferred to the Coquillard Wagon Works, where he served in the 



MEMOIRS OF INDI.W^A. 101 

responsible position of accountant and confidential clerk, until the death of Mr. 
Coquillard in February, 1890, continuing to remain an employe of the company 
thereafter until Septemer 1, 1892. Having been elected to the position of city clerk 
in May of that year on the Republican ticket by the largest majority that has been 
polled for the ofiSce in many years, which fact is a suificient testimonial of his com- 
petency and popularity, he entered upon his duties and has proved himself a beau 
ideal public officer, being accurate, punctual, intelligent and obliging. Mr. Hull 
has many steadfast friends in all parts of the county, and with all classes, and is him- 
self honest and earnest in his profession of friendship. As an illustration of his 
faithfulness and desire to do his duty, it can be said of him, that during the twenty- 
four years that he was in the employ of the Coqtiillards, he never lost but one day, 
except on account of sickness. He is a member of the K. of P., having passed all 
the chairs in this order, the G. A. R., and the German Turners' Society. He 
became a " benedict " in 1869, Miss Lydia Duck becoming his wife, and to their 
union two children have been given: Harry and Grace. Mr. Hull served as mem- 
ber of the city council from the Fourth Ward from 1876 to 1878, and did excellent 
service while a member of that body. 

Frederick Trisixger is one of the stockholders and a prominent member of the 
Wakarusa Lumber Company, which is one of the most active firms in its line of 
work in the county. Mr. Trisiuger was born in Canada, September 11, 1853, to 
Adam and Julia A. (Ohlheiser) Trisinger, the former of whom was born in Germany 
in 1826, or about that time, and was a son of Frederick and Julia A. Trisinger, who 
came to America with their family and settled in Canada, where a number of years 
were spent. They then came to Elkhart county, Ind. (in 1860), but the grand- 
father died during the trip and the grandmother passed from this life in St. Joseph 
county, Ind., about 1872. They reared a family of five children: Adam, Jacob, 
John, Philipbena and Lena, all of whom are living, but only one resides in this sec- 
tion of the county — Lena. The grandfather was a farmer throughout life and 
succeeded in accumulating a valuable property. Adam Trisinger was the second 
child born to his parents, and prior to their leaving Germany they acquired a good 
education in the schools of that country. He grew up on a farm in Canada, but 
also learned the butcher's trade, which calling he followed the greater part of his 
life. He was married in Canada and three of his children were born there. In 
1856 he located in Elkhart county, Ind., and took up his residence in the vicinity of 
Wakarusa, after a short residence on that place, and till after the Civil war tilled a 
farm in Harrison township. He then moved to Bremen, Marshall county, where he 
conducted a butcher shop two years; then once more returned to Wakarusa, where 
he resided until his removal to Michigan. From that place he went to St. Joseph 
county, Ind., and for the past four or five years he has lived in that county. His 
children are as follows: Jacob, who died at the age of four years; Frederick, the 
subject of this sketch; Lena, who died in childhood; Marj', who was born in Indi- 
ana, is the wife of Jacob Harrington, and is a resident of Olive township, Elkhart 
county; and Catherine, who was born in Indiana, died in childhood. The mother 
of these children died in 1864, having been born in Germany. Like her husband 
she removed to Canada where her early life was spent. She was a life-long member 
of the German Lutheran Church, was a noble mother and a faithful and affectionate 
wife. After her death the father took for his second wife Miss Julia A. Burling- 
court, who is still living and has borne him five children: Lucinda, who is married 
and lives in South Bend, Ind.; Elizabeth, who also resides there; John, Solomon 
and William. Mr. Trisinger is a member of the German Baptist Church, in politics 
is a Republican, and is well known for his public spirit and intelligence. Frederick 
Trisinger was a child of three years when he was brought to Elkhart county, and 
in the public schools of this section he received a good practical, business education. 
He left home when only thirteen years of age, and since that time has made his own 
way in the world, and until he was twenty years of age his earnings were given to 



102 PICTORIAL AJfB BIOGRAPHICAL 

his father. He learned and worked at the carpenter's trade, succeeded well in his 
undertakings, and in 1877 engaged in saw- milling, and became a member of the 
Smeltzer Sons & Co., and since 1879 has helped to operate the business successfully. 
They manufacture all kinds of lumber for building ]iurposes, and make a specialty 
of this kind of lumber. The members of this well-known firm are; Jacob H. Dell, 
John Smeltzer, H. J. Smeltzer, Fred Trisinger and Anthony Smeltzer. The mill 
has a capacity of 7,000 feet per day, for which a ready and profitable market is 
found. Mr. Trisinger was married on January 7, 1877, to Miss Elizabeth Smeltzer, 
a daughter of John Smeltzer. She was born June 29, 1860, and has presented her 
husband with two children, only one of whom is living, Maudie J., who was born on 
March 20, 1885. The other child died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Trisinger are 
members of the Christian Church at Wakarusa, and in politics Mr. Trisinger is a 
Republican, the interests of which he has always furthered to the best of his ability. 
As a man of affairs he has shown remarkable foresight and it is owing to his 
good judgment and business acumen that he has accumulated the handsome prop- 
erty of which he is now the owner. He and Mrs. Trisinger are considered among 
the first people of Wakarusa, and their hospitable home is a favorite resort for their 
numerous friends. 

William A. Eutherford is the genial, courteous and capable city treasurer of 
South Bend, and was born in Madison township, St. Joseph county, October 16, 
1850, a son of Jesse V. and Mary C. (Cotton) Rutherford, who were born in Cul- 
pepper county, Ya., and Prince Edward's Island respectively, the birth of the 
former occurring in 1826. In 1845 he turned his face westward and after a short 
stay in Elkhart county, Ind, he came to St. Joseph county, where he has resided 
since 1853. Here he entered laud and followed farming for a number of years, but 
for the past eighteen years has been one of the leading grocers of South Bend, and 
is highlj- regarded as an honorable business man by all classes. His family con- 
sisted of five children, two of whom are living: William A. and Mrs. Lina E. Blake, 
of South Bend. William A. Rutherford resided on a farm until eighteen years of 
age, and during that time learned not to be afraid of hard work. He obtained his educa- 
tion in the country schools, and after coming to South Bend learned the art of 
photograph}-, at which he worked for four years. In 1874 he embarked in the grocery 
business with his father, under the firm name of J. V. Eutherford & Son, which 
continued until the latter' s election to the office of city treasurer in September, 
1892, to which he had been elected in the previous May. He was elected on the 
Republican ticket, of which he had always been a supporter, by a majority of 278 
votes, the previous election having been 870 Democratic majority. The people's 
confidence in his ability has not been misplaced, and under his capable manage- 
ment everything moves along with clock-work precision. He has always been the 
soul of honesty in all his business transactions, and by his correct mode of living 
made numerous warm and faithful friends. He is interested in the public weal; is 
generous in his support of worthy measures, and, in fact, is a model citizen, as all 
who are acquainted with him know. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, of 
which order he is regent, and he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
His wife, whom he married May 19, 1875, and whose maiden name was Jennie 
Bucher, is not a member of the church. 

Jeremiah Haun, who since 1866 has made his home in Olive township, was born 
in Fayette county, Penn., February 12, 1830, the third in a family of twelve children 
reared by John and Martha (Shank) Haun, the former of whom was born in that 
county and State also, his birth occurring May 1, 1801. He was a son of one of the 
early jaioneers of that county, and of that section he remained a resident until he 
was twenty-five years of age, but owing to the fact that he was forced to begin 
working at a very early age, his opportunities for obtaining an education were lim- 
ited. He was married in Fayette county and in 1837 moved to Holmes county, 
Ohio, where, in addition to tilling the soil, he followed the occupation of threshing 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 103 

for many years, and succeeded in becoming well to do. He was active in the polit- 
ical ailairs of his section and was a life-loug Ref)ublican. He is now living a retired 
life in Holmes county, and has attained to the advanced age of ninety-two years. Not- 
withstanding the fact that the snows of many winters have passed over his head, he 
is quite active for one of his age and his mind shows but little the ravages of time. 
For thirty-tive years he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, is 
interested in Christian work, and reared his children to honest and industrious man- 
hood and womanhood. His wife was born in Fayette county, Penn., in 1807, a 
daughter of Christian Shank, and resided with her husband and children in Ohio 
until her death in 1889, at the age of eighty-three years. She had been a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church for many years, was a helpmate, indeed, to her 
husband, and was devotion itself to the following childi-en which she bore her hus- 
band: James is a farmer, a man of family and resides in Holmes county, Ohio; Mary 
is the wife of Christian Kilmer, of Holmes county; Jeremiah (the subject of this 
sketch), is a farmer and lives in Elkhart county, Ind. ; Peter, died at the age of fif- 
teen in Holmes county; Nancy, who is the wife of John L. Moyer, of Clay county, 
Ind. ; Uriah, who died at the age of seventeen years; Mahala, who died in childhood; 
two that died in infancy; Harry, whose residence was in Holmes county, but who 
died in Missouri in 1890. He had been a member of Company G, Nineteenth Ohio 
Regiment, was in battles, and was taken a prisoner of war at Chickamauga, and was 
kept in captivity at Andersouville for eighteen months, during which time he suf- 
fered untold hardships and privations; Jacob, who was a soldier in the One Hun- 
dred and Second Ohio Regiment, was taken a prisoner in Alabama, and was kept in 
captivity for six months, during which time he was treated very cruelly. His regi- 
ment was blown up on a boat near St. Louis about the close of the war. He died in 
1877, leaving a family in Wayne county, Ohio, where he for many years followed the 
occupation of farming. Solomon, living in Wayne coimty, is a farmer and a man 
of family. Jeremiah was six years of age when taken to Ohio, and on a woodland 
farm in that State he grew to manhood. He received a fair education in the district 
schools but at the age of twenty-one he started out for himself and settled on a farm 
in Holmes county, where he was married to Mariah. daughter of Joseph and 
Elizabeth (Showalter) Longnecker, who were early settlers of that region. The 
father died at Mr. Haun's home in Elkhart county, his wife's death occurring in 
Owen county, Ind. They were about seventy-five years of age and he was a member 
of the Mennonite and she of the Dunkard Church. Their children were: Isaac, of 
Ohio; Sarah, married Jacob F. Lentz, and is deceased: Mariah; Rebecca, wife of F. 
Coppage, of Terre Haute, Ind. ; Leah is the deceased wife of William Stevic, of Ohio; 
Loviua is the wife of Eugene Doriot, of Fulton county, Ohio; Rhoda is the wife of 
F. M. Barnhart, of Clay county, Ind.; Adaline is the wife of Jacob F. Rohrer, 
of Elkhart county; Elizabeth died unmarried; Joseph died at two years of age; 
Amanda became the wife of George Leferer, of Elkhart county. The parents of 
these children became prominent residents of Ohio in 1836. They made a good 
property and reared a family that commanded the respect of all. He was a 
Republican in politics. Mrs. Haun was born in Fayette county, Penn., Feb- 
ruary 13, 1835, and was a child when the family settled in the woods of Ohio. She 
and Mr. Haun grew tip in the same neighborhood and attended the same school. In 
1866 they came to Elkhart county, Ind., and as Mr. Haun had previously been very 
successful in business, he was enabled to purchase 161 acres of land in Olive town- 
ship, and this has since been his home. He and his wife are members of the Evan- 
gelical Church; he is one of its stewards and politically is a member of the Repub- 
lican party, which he has always enthusiastically supported. In 1868 he was elected 
trustee of Olive township, and held the position three successive terms. He has been 
very successful as a stock raiser, and as a tiller of the soil has been no less prosfier- 
ous for he brings to bear sound judgment and practical experience. To himself and 
wife have been born a good old-fashioned family of fourteen children: Mary, born Feb- 



104 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHWAL 

ruary 13, 1S53, died December 17, 1854; Martha E., born September 16, 1854, is the 
■wife of Allen Maiirer, of Marshall county, Ind., and has these children: Dora, 
Jeremiah, Daisy, Allen, Marvin; Joel (who died at the age of twelve); Clemen- 
tine (died at four years), and three died in infancy; Almira, born February 
11, 1855, and died December 17, 1864; Isaac H. , born November 8, 1857, died 
December 22, 1864; Joel S., born March 6, 1859, died December 12, 1S64; Lorenzo 
K., born April 10, 1861, died April 10, 1878; Harrison R., bom April 30, 1863, died 
December 19, 1864: Joseph G., born November 26. 1864, is living in Olive township, 
married to Caroline Marker, by whom he has a daughter: Olga L., and two children 
who died in infancy; Pera E., born March 17, 1867, is the wife of Wayne F. Fichler, 
of Wakarusa, and is the mother of two children: Rub\- and Vernon J. ; Homer was born 
June 21, 1869, and died June 22, 1869; Adelpha, born April 7, 1872, is the wife of 
Euel K. Reinebold, of St. Joseph county, by whom she has one child: Volney G. ; 
John M. was born July 17, 1874; Pardon was born July 11, 1877. and died at the age 
of four months; and Luhi M. was born March 4, 1882. Five of their children died in- 
side of two weeks, in 1864, of diphtheria. Mr. and Mrs. Haun are among the best 
known citizens of their section of the country, and through their own industry are 
now enjoying their comfortable and pleasant home. Mr. Haun raises a high grade 
of draft horses and a fine breed of sheep. 

Chkistian Blocher has been a resident of Elkhart county, Ind., for the past 
twenty-seven years, but was born in Erie county, N. Y. , December 15, 1836, a son 
of Christian and Catherine (Beam) Blocher, the former of whom was of Lancas- 
ter county, Penn., born December 16, 1806, a son of John Blocher. who was a 
native of Switzerland and was brought to Lancaster county. Pa., when two years 
old, but later became a resident of Erie county, X. Y. , where he died at a ripe old 
age. His wife, who was a Miss Frick, died in Erie county also. They reared a 
family of eleven children: John, Jacob. Tisou, Christian, Peter, David, Martha, 
Susan, Sophia, Elizabeth and Polly, of whom Sophia is the only survivor. Chris- 
tian was reared on a farm in York State, there grew up and married and there 
paid the last debt of nature March 27, 1852. When a young man he had married 
Catherine Beam, a daughter of Christian Beam, of the same county in New York, 
but her birth occurred in the same county as that of her husband October 2, 
1799, and died in Indiana with her son. Christian, on July 2, 1877. She was the 
mother of sis children: David, born July 27, 1831, and died in Erie county at 
the age of forty-six years; Peter was born Februaiy 1. 1S34, and died June 11, 
1892, in Pennsylvania; Christian; John C, who was born July 18, 1839, and is a res- 
ident of Bloomingtou, HI. ; Catherine, born September 24, 1842, is the wife of Jacob 
Bessey. The father and mother were members of the Mennonite Church and polit- 
ically he was a Whig, and as a tiller of the soil succeeded in accumulating some 
property. In the public schools of New York State. Christian Blocher received a 
good business education, and owing to the death of his father, he began making his 
own way in the world at the age of fifteen years. He worked on different farms in 
Erie county until he was nineteen years of age, then went to Michigan and began 
devoting his attention to the lumber business. After remaining there a short time 
he began tilling the soil and continued it until the firing on Fort Sumter caused 
him to abandon his plow in order to fight his country's battles and the same year 
his name could be found on the rolls of Company G, Seventh Michigan Volun- 
teer Infanti-y, he being one of the first men to enlist in his country's service. He 
held the rank of corporal and was promoted to sergeant, a position he was filling at 
the time he quit the army three years later. He was with the Army of the Po- 
tomac and was at Fair Oaks, the second battle of Bull Bun, Antietam, where his regi- 
ment had 216 men wounded and thirty-nine killed. Mr. Blocher was wounded in both 
heels by a gunshot and was in the hospital for some time before he was able to re- 
join his regiment. He was also at Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, and 
on May 6, 1864, was struck by a spent ball which knocked him down but did not 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIASA. 105 

injure him. When his term of service had expired he received his discharge on 
the field, but after remaining at home about two months he returned to the sei-vice. 
When the war was over he returned to New York and was there married on June 
18, 1865, to Susannah Martin, who was born in Erie county June G, 1837. She 
was a daughter of Abraham and Mariah (Herst) Martin, both of whom died in York 
State, the former having been born in Pennsylvania. After his marriage Mr. 
Blocher removed with his wife to Ohio, but came to Elkhart county, Ind., a few 
months later and after renting for some time purchased a farm of eighty- five acres 
which had been partly improved. He and his wife began devoting their energies to 
improving this land and it is now a well-improved and well-cultivated tract. His 
wife is a member of the Mennouite Church and he has always been an active 
Republican in politics. He has held the office of township supervisor for eight 
years and since 1886 has held the office of township trustee two terms. He is inter- 
ested in the much needed improvement of the public roads, and has always been a 
patron of the public schools. He raises nearly all the cereals on his farm, and stock- 
raising has received considerable attention at his hands. He and his family are 
highly regarded in their community and he is well known to the agriculturists of 
Elkhart county. He has a family of four children: Martin A., who was born 
July 22, 1866, is married to Maggie Winger, has one child, and is a farmer of Olive 
township; John M. , born- June 7, 1868, has been a school teacher for a number 
of years and has become quite prominent as an educator; Anna E. was born 
January 19, 1870, is married to J. W. Moyer, of Olive township, and Ida A., who 
was born February 14, 1872, is at home with her parents. 

jAiTES McM. SiiiTH, president of the South Beud & Mishawaka Railway, was 
born in Overton county, Teun., February 13. 1852. a son of Alexander A. and Jane 
(McMillan) Smith, who were born in Virginia and North Carolina respectively. The 
father followed the calling of a carpenter, and after his marriage, removed to 
Macoupin county, 111., where he engaged in farming until death called him from 
this life in 1866. His widow survives him and is residing in the Indian Territory 
with a son. She became the mother of seven children: Dr. H. B., of McAllister, 
I. T. ; Horace, agent for the Missouri, Kansas k, Texas Railroad, of McAllister, 
1. T. ; Mrs. Elizabeth K.. Harrison: Mrs. Henrietta R. Boiling; Milton L., who is on 
the editorial staff of the New York World, Otto W.. agent of the Missiouri, Kansas 
& Texas Railroad at Gainesville, Tex., and James McM. The latter began learning 
telegraphy with the Chicago & Alton Railroad at the age of ten years and remained 
in the serrice of this road for five years, at the end of which time he became con- 
nected with the Pullman Palace Car Company, located in Chicago, as receiving 
cashier, and for twenty years remained thus connected. The last eight years he 
was the private secretary of George M. Pullman, and traveled with him over a great 
portion of the world. He resigned this position in 1888 and engaged in the iron 
manufacturing business in Chicago, making a speciality of rolling mill machinery, 
hammers and heavy forgings. In the spring of 1889 he sold his interest in this 
business and embarked in the street railway business, his first experience in this line 
being in Des Moines, Iowa. In that city two street car companies were very an- 
tagonistic to each other, but Mr. Smith succeeded in creating harmony between 
them and they were eventually consolidated. He bonded this new company for 
$600,000, after which he succeeded in establishing a number of other companies. 
In the fall of 18S9 he took up the South Bend street railway property, which was 
then a horse-car line owned by two companies. He succeeded in consolidating them, 
put in the electric system, and has since been its president. He is just now getting 
the road in good working order, and is rebuilding its lines with heavy "T" rails. 
This is being done under his own personal supervision, and as he is a thorough and 
practical business man. it will without doubt be a grand success. He has the deter- 
mination and push necessary for a successful business career and his future out- 
look is bright and promising. He was offered the presidency of one of the Chicago 



106 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

elevated railways, but respectfully declined to accept the position. Mr. Smith 
never went to school a day in his life, his rudimentary education being obtained at 
Lome under his mother, and in every senseof the word he is a self-made man. He 
was married in 1877 to Miss Jennie Turner, of Chicago, and in that city now makes 
his home. Mr. Smith has a cousin, Benton McMillan, in Congress, who has won 
considerable distinction. He was educated by Mr. Smith's mother and like the 
latter has shown that he had excellent early training. The parents of Mr. Smith 
lived to a ripe old age and the maternal grandmother lived to the extreme old age 
of nearly one hundred years. 

Eleazer Fryman is a product of the county of Elkhart, lud., and is a descendant 
of one of the early pioneer farmers of the section. He was the second child and 
only son born to Samuel and Barbara (Hay) Fryman, the former of whom was born 
in Montgomery county, Ohio, about 1816. His early ancestors came to this country 
from Germany and settled in Pennsylvania, and later in Montgomery county, Ohio, 
where Samuel was reared. His early life was spent in a great mill with his father, 
who was a miller by trade, but later he learned the trade of a carpenter and also 
engaged in farming. In Ohio he was married to Miss Hay, a daughter of Valentine 
Hay, and at the end of two years moved by wagon through the woods to Indiana 
and located on a farm in Harrison township, Elkhart county, which is now owned by 
his only sou, the subject of this sketch. He bought laud to the extent of eighty 
acres, all of which was heavily timbered, but after some years, by hard work at his 
trade, and by clearing his farm at night, he soon had his farm in fair condition for 
agricultural purposes. He made his settlement in 1S42, and he and his good wife 
went through all the many privations of life on a frontier farm. He and his wife 
were lifelong members of the German Baptist Church, and although he was reared 
a Democrat, about 1850 he became a Republican and supported that party until his 
death in 1887, at the age of seventy-one years. He was one of nature's noblemen, 
and as a citizen was all that could be desired. He was a self-made man, won many 
friends by his correct mode of living, and upon his death left a nice property to his 
heirs. His worthy wife was born in Bedford county, Penn., in 1813, and died in 
Elkhart county in the spring of 1892. She had become the mother of four children 
by a first marriage to Jonas Miller: Henry. Hettie, Valentine and Elizabeth. The 
two last mentioned are deceased. Hettie is the wife of Valentine Berkey. Mrs. 
Fryman had emigrated to Indiana with her first husband and lived in St. Joseph 
county near South Bend. After the death of her husband she went back to Ohio, 
and there later married Mr. Fryman. Among the children born of her second mar- 
riage is Isabella, who was bom in October, 1S40, and is now the wife of Michael S. 
Weaver, of Concord township, by whom she has three children: Edward, Eleazer 
and Tacy, Eleazer Fryman was born September 1, 18-tS, on the farm where he 
now lives, and as soon as he became old enough began to assist his father and soon 
took almost entire charge of the place, and his father gave the most of his attention 
to his trade. Eleazer attended the district schools and spent one term in the 
Goshen High School, where he gained a practical education. He remained at home 
managing the farm until the death of his father, and in 1869 was married to Eliza- 
beth Steiner: who was born in Lebanon county, Penn., October 6, 1850, a daughter 
of Andrew Steiner and Henrietta (Vile) Steiner, the former of whom was also born 
in that county October 20, 1820, a son of Frederick and Elizabeth (Lesher) Steiner. 
Frederick Steiner was a native of Germany, came to this country with his parents 
when a child, and from him sprung the numerous people of that name in Pennsyl- 
vania. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Andrew Steiner grew up and married 
in his native county, there reared his family, but died in Elkhart county, Ind., 
November 20, 1S91. having lived here two years with his daughter, Mrs. Fryman. 
He was a member of the I'nited Brethren Church, and was a Eepublican in politics. 
He was a stone-mason by trade, as was his father before him, and became a promi- 
nent contractor, being especially skilled as a bridge builder. He was very charitable, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 107 

ever lent a hand to the poor and needy, and was liberal in the use of his means in 
worthy causes. He was quite a Nimrod, took great delight in the sport, and every 
season spent some months in the Allegheny Mountains hunting deer and in fishing. 
His wife was a daughter of Henry Vile, and when quite young she was left an 
orphan and was reared by her grandmother Spangler. Her grandfather Spangler 
came from Holland, and tradition has it that he brought with him to this country a 
lx)x of gold. To Andrew Steiner and his wife nine children were bom, and the 
latter made a number of trips to the West to visit her children, who had settled in 
Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. She died in 1877, at fifty-two years of age, an earnest 
member of the United Brethren Church. She was a Christian in every sense of the 
word, and was always very kind to the sick and poor. Her children were as follows: 
John A., torn May 10, 1844, is living in Michigan, married to Eebecca "VVomer; 
Catherine A. is the wife of Dr. C. J. I. Murray, of Morris, 111. ; Isaac A. is married 
to Tacy Maul fair, and lives in Maryland; Caroline, who died in childhood; Eliza- 
beth H. (Mrs. Fryman j; Emma M. is the wife of Dell Toung, of Chicago; Marius 
W., a dentist of St. Joseph, Mo., is married to Lillie Grant, daughter of Judge 
Grant, of Grundy county. 111. : William, who is living in Maryland, was married to 
Sally Carminey, and after her death took for his second wife Sadie Sumerill: Mary, 
who is the wife of Adam Phranier, of San Francisco, Cal. ; Sadie, who died in infancy ; 
Charles, who died at the age of seven years, and Mindie M., who is now Mrs. Peter 
Chapman of Goshen, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Fryman were married in Lebanon county, 
Penn., in 1869, and soon after came to Elkhart county, Ind. They have two sons: 
Samuel A. born January 24, 1871, and is married to Alice Wagoman. daughter of 
Andrew and Catherine A. (Shoman) Wagoman. and is now living on a farm owned 
by his parents. He and his wife have one child, a daughter. Fern, who was born 
May 29, 1892. Samuel is a Eepublican, and is a wide-awake, pushing young man. 
The second child born to Mr. and Mrs. Fryman was Marius W., born October 14, 
1889. They are members of the Progressive Church, and Mr. Fryman has always 
been a Republican. He has a good farm of 112 acres, and he and his wife are 
among the most popular residents of their section. 

Dr. JtTLiA D. GoDFBET, physiciau and surgeon, is a worthy example of this 
progressive age and of what can be accomplished by the "weaker sex,'' when op- 
portunity is afforded. She possesses those attributes necessary for a successful 
career as a practitioner of the "'healing art," for she is naturally kind hearted and 
sympathetic and has the happy faculty of inspiring hope and courage in those upon 
whom she is called to attend, while her native intelligence and thorough and prac- 
tical knowledge of her calling can not be denied. She was bom in Brown county, 
Ohio, in 1852, and comes of an excellent family, her parents being Abner Devore 
and Louise M. Gardner (mother's maiden name), who were also Ohioans, the former 
a successful tiller of the soil in the Buckeye State. He and his wife became the 
parents of six sons and one daughter. The maternal and paternal grandfathers 
were clergymen. Dr. Mrs. Godfrey received her initiatory training in the public 
schools and subsequently entered ITrsuline Convent, and from there became a student 
in the Lebanon State Normal School, but shortly after entering this institution her 
mother died, which prevented her from finishing her course, as she immediately re- 
turned home and began keeping house for her father. After teaching several terms 
of school she was united in marriage to Samuel Godfrey and after a lapse of a few 
years she took up the study of kindergarten methods, but did not put the knowledge 
thus gained into practical use. About this time she set her heart upon pursuing a 
medical career and with the energy which has ever characterized this wide-awake 
lady she began the earnest study of medicine and graduated from the Hahnemann 
Medical College, of Chicago in 1891. She then located in South Bend, where she 
has since made her home and where she has deservedly built up a very satisfactory 
practice, which fully occupies her time. She deserves much credit for the way in 
which she had surmounted the obstacles which have strewn her pathway in the 



108 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

fields of science, and her career is a useful object lesson to others of her sex to "go 
and do likewise." She has made numerous friends and her future career is bright 
with promise. She is a member of the Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan 
Medical Associations, and makes it the aim and object of her existence to keep well 
informed of the progress made in her profession. 

Jeremiah Bechtel. A glance at the interesting genealogy of the Beehtel fam- 
ily shows that Jeremiah Bechtel comes of very j^rominent people, who have become 
noted in the annals of Elkhart county history, and who have, by their upright, 
straightforward course through life, kept their names unspotted and honored in the 
sight of God and man. Mr. Bechtel is at present a banker of AVakarusa and one 
of the most prominent citizens and business men of the place. He owes his nativity 
to Blair county, Penn., born September 30, 1S48, and was the fourth child born to 
Daniel and Sarah (Neterer) Bechtel (see sketch of Daniel Bechtel). When but a 
child our subject was taken by his parents to Elkhart county, Ind. , and there grew 
to manhood amid the rude pioneer surroundings of Harrison township. He at- 
tended the district school near his home and there laid the foundation for his sub- 
sequent prosperous career. When twenty-one years of age he emigrated westward 
and located in Clinton county, Mo., where he engaged in farming, but on account 
of sickness came home where he worked on a farm by the month for two years. 
Later he engaged in the lumber business and still later bought a farm in Union 
township on which he erected a saw mill. This he operated for about sixteen years 
in connection with farming and since 1877 has made his home on the farm in Union 
township, where he owns a fine tract of land. He was very successful as a farmer 
and mill man and in that way the foundation for his fortune was laid. Success fol- 
lowed him, he grew in wealth year by year, and is to-day one of the wealthiest men 
of the county. He is possessed of superior business ability, excellent judgment 
and his prosperity is due wholly to his energy and enterprise. Mr. Bechtel con- 
tinued the lumber business in connection with farming until the last few years and 
on September 15, 1890, he started what is known as the Exchange Bank of 
Wakarusa. He is recognized as one of the solid business men of the county, is 
an accomplished and polished gentleman, both by instinct and training, and a very 
pleasant acquaintance. Public spirited and progressive, he gives his hearty support 
to all enterprises worthy of mention. In his political views he is a strong advocate 
of the principles of the Eepublican party and has held a number of local positions, 
being county commissioner in 1888 and re-elected in 1890. The first time he was 
elected by a majority of 700 votes in the county. It is probable that Mr. Bechtel 
has given more attention to the roads than any man in the county, and his energy, 
industry and persevereuce in every enterprise he has undertaken, is an example 
worthy of imitation by humble youth. Mr. Bechtel selected as his life companion 
Miss Louisa McDowell, a native of Elkhart county, born November 14, 1851, in 
Harrison township, and the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Cart) McDowell 
(see sketch of William McDowell). Mrs. Bechtel was the eldest of five children 
born to her parents and was reared on her father's farm in Hamson township. She 
received a good education in the district school and then became a school teacher, 
following that profession for five terms in Elkhart county, and meeting with the 
best of success. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Bechtel resided on the farm in 
Union township, but in 1892 they bought a handsome residence in Wakarusa and 
make their home there at the present time. They have two children, Harvey S. , 
born December 5, 1882. and Ruth G., born November 29, 1891. Mr. Bechtel and 
wife have many acquaintances and are classed among the best citizens of the 
county. 

William McDowell. For many years this worthy gentleman was a resident of 
Harrison township, Elkhart Co., Ind., but is now a prominent citizen of Harvey 
county, Kan. He is a native of that grand old State. Virginia, born August 24, 
1823, and his parents, James and Jane (Boyd) McDowell, were born on the green 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 109 

isle of Erin. James McDowell was brought to this country by his parents when only 
about a year old, and a settlement was made in Greenbrier county, Va., where the Mc- 
Dowell family made their home for many generations. Some of the early members 
of the family participated in the revolutionary war, and were patriotic and honora- 
ble citizens. James and Jane McDowell reared a family of children, and when 
William was but eight years of age they emigrated by wagon to Elkhart county and 
settled in Harrison township, where they took up land and began making a home 
for themselves in the midst of the heavy timber. Many hardships and privations 
were experienced by this enterprising young couple, but they struggled with ad- 
versity and came out conquerors. Mrs. McDowell died in 1866, and her husband 
followed her to the grave in 1872. He was an old-line Whig in politics, and a 
Presbyterian in his religious views. His wife also held membership in that church, 
and they were highly esteemed and respected in the community, not only as pio- 
neer settlers, but as worthy and honorable citizens. From the age of eight years, 
William McDowell was reared on his father's farm in Harrison township, and at- 
tended the district schools of his day. After reaching man's estate he followed 
farming on the old home place and there remained until a few years ago, when he 
sold out and moved to Kansas. When twenty-five years of age he was married to 
Miss Elizabeth Alfard, a Virginia lady and daughter of Robert Alfard, who came 
from the Old Dominion to Elkhart county, Ind. , at an early day. To this union 
one child was born, but mother and child both died. A number of years later Mr. 
McDowell married Miss Elizabeth Cart, daughter of Conrad and Rebecca (Fen- 
ton) Cart, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Ireland. Mr. 
and Mrs. Cart came to this country at an early day and settled in Green- 
brier county, Va., where Elizabeth was born February 24, 1S30. She died 
in Elkhart county in 1868, leaving five children: Louisa, born November 
14, 1851, and is now Mrs. Bechtel; M. A., born August 29, 1856, is the wife of 
Peter Bechtel, who now resides in Peabody, Marion Co., Kan.; Harriet A., 
born April 19, 1858. married George Moyer, of Peabody, Kan.; Harvey S., born 
March 10, 1862, died December 23, 1882, and Oliver E., born April 20, 1867, is liv- 
ing in Kansas. Mr. McDowell's third marriage was with Elizabeth Friend, daugh- 
ter of an old soldier who was killed in the civil war. Five children were the fruits 
of this union: Charles, born December 3, 1870; Frank, born December 21, 1872; 
Mary J., born January 11, 1875; Lottie P., born in 1884, and George, born in 1886. 
Mr. McDowell is a prominent man in Kansas, and previous to moving to that State 
was one of the representative citizens of Elkhart county, Ind. 

John Smeltzer. Among the early pioneers of Elkhart county and Olive town- 
ship, Ind., and who has attained to a vigorous old age, is John Smeltzer, who, many 
years ago, came to this section with his wife, and settled on the farm on which a por- 
tion of the town of Wakarusa is now situated. John Smeltzer was born in the State 
of Pennsylvania on March 26, 1823, his parents being Michael and Susan (Rhodes) 
Smeltzer, who were also Pennsylvania people, and were of substantial German stock, 
possessing the thrift and energy for which that race of people have always been 
noted. In the State of his birth John Smeltzer was reared, and being one of a 
family of nine children had to work hard in his younger days, and consequently 
received but little education. At an early date he emigrated to Richland county, 
Ohio, and for twenty-five years there successfully tilled the soil. He was married 
in the Buckeye State to Miss Leah Lechlighter, daughter of Anthony Lechlighter, 
and in 1848 removed with her to Indiana, and located on a woodland farm in Elk- 
hart county, where they passed through all the vicissitudes and hardships of pioneer 
life. They still reside on the farm on which they first settled, and have a good and 
comfortable home about one-half mile east of Wakamsa. At an early day he 
started a saw-mill, and followed that business with good financial results for a long 
period. It was conducted under the firm name of John Smeltzer & Co., and later 
as John Smeltzer & Sons, but is at present known as the Wakarusa Lumber Company 



110 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

and is still doing a paying business. The stockholders are F. Trisinger (Mr. 
Smeltzer's son-inlaw) and Anthony and Henry J. Smeltzer and John Smeltzer, 
also the substantial citizen, Jacob H. Dell. All are shrewd and practical business 
men, and are running their saw and plauing-mill in a very creditable and satis- 
factory manner. Mr. Smeltzer may be said to be a pioneer in the lumber business, 
and as a citizen has always been public spirited, enterprising and industrious, and 
as a natural result has accumulated a fair share of this world's goods. He and 
his wife are highly regarded by all who know them, and for many years have been 
in close communion with the Reformed Lutheran Church. Of eleven children born 
to them ten are living: Susan, Henry, Anthony, Michael, Catherine, Joseph, Libbie, 
Daniel, Simon, John and Mary. These children are all in good circumstances and 
are an honor to the parents who reared them. For many years John Smeltzer has 
been retired from the active affairs of business life, his sons having taken the burden 
of the mill off his shoulders. Anthony Smeltzer, the third of their children, and 
now a member of the Wakarusa Lumber Company, was born in Harrison township, 
Elkhart county, Ind. , June 7, 1850, and was reared on the old home farm near 
Wakarusa, where he was early taught to till the soil and to learn the duties neces- 
sary for the proper conduct of a farm. He obtained his rudimentary knowledge in 
the district schools and in the town of Wakarusa, but at the age of twenty years 
gave up farming to enter the saw-mill at Wakarusa, since which time his attention 
has been devoted to this work. For some time he also conducted a threshing- 
machine, and in a business way has been more than ordinarily successful, for he has 
a shrewd and practical mind, is quick to grasp at opportunities for bettering his 
financial condition, and has always been scrupulousl)- honorable in his dealings 
with his patrons, never putting in practice sharp or doubtful methods, as so many do, 
in order to further his own interests. He has been familiar with saw-milling since 
1869, and in 1875 was made a partner in the business, after which the firm was 
known as John Smeltzer & Sou. In 1880 Anthony was married to Miss Huma 
Helwig, who was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, November 4, 185-1. Her parents, 
Caspar and Martha (Eckhart) Helwig, were of German descent, and the father is 
still a resident of Ohio, but the mother was called from this life in September, 1892. 
Mrs. Smeltzer was one of a family of eight children. She was married to Mr. 
Smeltzer in 1880, and immediately began keeping house in Wakarusa, where they 
have a very pleasant and comfortable home. They are members of the Christian 
Church, and Mr. Smeltzer now supports the People's party, although in the past he 
was a Repulilican. He leans to some extent toward the Prohibition party, for in 
every respect in his mode of living he is very temperate. He has held positions of 
trust and honor in Olive township, and at all times has shown himself to be very 
public spirited and interested in the improvements of the county. He and his wife 
have many friends, and are among the substantial and honored residents of Waka- 
rusa. Henry J. Smeltzer is the second child born to his parents, and passed his 
youth very much as his brother did. In Richland county, Ohio, he first saw the 
light of day, May 18, 18-18, and was an infant when his parents made the trip in 
wagons to Elkhart county, Ind. Henry has resided in the vicinity of Wakarusa 
since the year of his birth, and during this time the citizens thereat have had every 
opportunity to judge of his character and business qualifications, and naught has 
ever been said derogatory to his honor. Owing to the newness of the country and 
the scarcity of good schools, he only attended a few months each year, his youthful 
days being spent hard at work on the farm, the most of which he had to do, as he 
was the eldest son. This rough but practical school developed his intellect and 
resources at an early day, and his energies were expended on the farm until he was 
nineteen years of age, when he commenced making his own way in the world. For 
some time he worked by the day at the carpenter's trade, then followed saw-milling 
for some time, and later entered the saw-mill business with his father, and since 
that time has been an active and useful member of the firm of Smeltzer & Sons and 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. Ill 

the Wakarusa Lumber Company. He has made a success of his business life, and 
his natural business ability has been strengthened and broadened by experience. 
He has always been honest, straightforward and industrious, and as a result is suc- 
cessful. He has always supported the Republican party and is a public-spirited 
man. In September, 1867, when only nineteen years of age, he was married to Miss 
Barbara A. Ipe, a native of Ohio, a daughter of Washington Ipe, an early pioneer, 
who is still living in Union township, Elkhart county. Mrs. Smeltzer was born on 
April 8, 1849, and became a resident of this county when ten years of age. The fol- 
lowing children have been borne to her union with Mr. Smeltzer; Susan, is the wife of 
Jacob Walker, of Wakarusa, and is the mother of one child — Ralphus; William A. ; 

Charles E. , who is married to Carrie ; Hattie, who is the wife of Eli Weise, of 

Locke township; Cora; Carrie; Libbie; Agnes and Mary I. John H. is deceased. Mr. 
and Mrs. Smeltzer are members of the United Brethren Church, of which they are 
worthy communicants, and have a substantial and comfortable home in the town. 
Like the other members of the family Mr. Smeltzer is public spirited, and has 
always manifested much interest in the development of churches and schools. He 
is a self-made man in all that the word implies, and one of which his family may 
well be proud. 

Oliver P. Wislek is the eldest child of Isaac Wisler, of whom extended mention 
is made elsewhere in this volume. That he has inherited many of the most worthy 
qualities of his people is acknowledged and his numerous friends testify to his 
honesty, kindheartedness and energj'. He was born on the farm owned by his 
father in Locke township, near the town of Locke, on the 13th of November, 1859, 
and while growing up attended the schools of Locke, where he laid the foundation of a 
practical education, later finishing his scholastic knowledge in the public schools of 
Syracuse, Ind. On his father's farm he learned lessons of industry and honesty and 
while attending school acquired a decided taste for books; which qualities admir- 
ably fitted him for the calling of a pedagogue, the duties of which he took upon 
his shoulders at the youthful age of seventeen. During the two terms that he fol- 
lowed this calling he was quite successful but gave it up to follow other pursuits. 
Many of his youthful days were spent in the wooden-ware factory belonging to his 
father, but in later life he became the owner and manager of a threshing machine, 
which he conducted for about seven seasons, and at the same time followed farming 
and bought and sold timber. In the management of these enterprises he showed 
that he possessed fine business qualifications, for his efforts met with abundant re- 
ward. Since he attained his twenty-second year he has farmed for himself, and 
since 1889 has resided on a farm of sixty acres in Locke township, of which he is 
the owner. He has dealt iu lumber and timber for many years, has a superior 
knowledge of the business, and as he has been strictly honoraljle in all his dealings he 
is deservedly successful. He is at present engaged as assistant superintendent for 
" The Perley Lumber Company, " of South Bend, Ind. In his youth he learned 
the art of boiler making of his father, and for some time followed this occupation 
in South Bend. He has made a success of his life and it may with truth be said 
of him that he is a self-made man. He has always supported the principles of the 
Republican party, and like all the members of his family, is a public-spirited citizen. 
On the 20th of September, 1884, he was united in marriage to Elzina Blily, an 
adopted daughter of Louis and Sarah Blily. She was born September 16, 1867 in 
Locke township, and from her marriage up to 1889 resided on the farm of Isaac 
Wisler, at which time her husband purchased their present farm. They have four 
children: Lester O., who was born August 13, 1885; Harry Otis, born December 
6, 1886; Charles M., born June 7, 1888, and Glenn, born October 23, 1889. Mr. 
and Mrs. Wisler have many friends with whom they are deservedly popular. 

Alexander Wilhelm. The learned professions have many disciples who aspire 
to honor and dignity in their chosen fields and all with greater or less reason to ex- 
pect their efforts to be crowned with success. He of whom we have the pleasure of 



113 PWrOIilAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

attempting a short biographical sketch is one of the many to woo the tickle goddess 
of fortune before the bench and bar. Nor does he aspire without cause, for nature 
has gifted hiui generously with those qualities that make themselves felt in the legal 
profession. Mr. Wilhelm was born in La Porte, Ind., November IS, 1S61, a sou of 
John and Emily (De La Barre) Wilhelm, both of whom were born in Germany, the 
family being of French, as well as German descent and of old Eevolutiouary stock. 
The mother's grandfather fled from France and settled near Berlin, Prussia, in 
which country the grandmother is still living at an advanced age. In 1S4S John Wil- 
helm became an emigrant to the United States and although he first settled and resided 
in La Porte for some time, he is now a successful business man of Bremen, Ind. He is 
a tailor by trade. Of the sis children born to himself and wife, live are now liviug, 
three sous and two daughters, of whom the suViject of this sketch is the eldest son. 
Until five years of age he resided in La Porte, from which time until he attained his 
majority he was a resident of Stark county, Ind., and lived on a farm. When quite 
j'oung he began making his own way in the world andat various times he attended the 
country schools and secm-ed a fair education, which he further improved by con- 
siderable self-application. In 1ST9 he began school teaching, to which occupation 
he devoted his attention iintil 1SS5, h\ which means he secured sutficient money to 
enable him to take a mixed course in the Indiana University at Valparaiso. lu the 
spring of 1SS6 he entered the law office of Mr. Hubbard under whom he read law 
for some time, being admitted to the bar in 1SS7, after which he went to Horton, 
Kan., and hung out his shingle, but soon discovered that this was not a desirable 
location and in 1S90 returned to South Bend, of which place he has since been one 
of the leading practitioners, owing to his steady devotion to duty and the constant 
exercise of energy and judgment. His reputation is not bounded by the arbitrary 
limits of the county, bnt he is already becoming known in surrounding counties, and 
bids fair to acquire an enviable reputation as a legal practitioner. Politically he is a 
Democrat and socially is a member of the K. of P. and the K. O. T. M. October 
30, ISST, he led to Hymen's altar Miss Luella M. Goodrich, of South Bend, and to 
them two interesting children have been given: Helen B. aud Halford Y. 

Peter Fink is one of the mo.-t prominent farmers of Elkhart county, Ind., and 
there is no one who more fully illustrates in his career the unbounded energy and 
activity of the agriculturists of his section than does he. He was born in Lan- 
caster county, Penu., September 29, 1832, the oldest but one of eight children born 
to Emanuel and Lydia (Madlern) Fink, the former of whom was born in 
Pennsylvania, a son of Philip Fink, who was of German descent. Emanuel Fink 
first removed to Ohio and in 1842 came to this country aud settled on an eighty- 
acre tract of land in Olive township, and resided on two different farms there until 
his death which occurred in 1880. He was born in 1803; came by wagon to this sec- 
tion, at which time he was in straitened circumstances, but by following the plow 
and working at the carpenter's trade and in this manner succeeded in rearing his 
large family in comfort and accumulating a comfortable competency. In politics 
he was a Democrat, and held a number of offices in his township. His wife died in 
this county in 1892, at the age of eighty-four years, a member of the Lutheran 
Church. She became the mother of nine children, the following of whom reached 
mature years: Samuel, Peter, Leah, Lydia, Elizabeth, Fianna, William aud Nancy, 
all living in Elkhart county, bnt Fianna. who died several years ago. Peter Fink 
has been a resident of Elkhart county since he attained his tenth year, and in the 
schools of Ohio and those of this connty he obtained his education. Until he was 
twenty-one years of age he made his parents' house his home, at which time he was 
married to Mary Clause, daughter of John and Susanna (Snyder) Clause, both of 
whom were born iu Berks county, Penn. Mr. Clause was one of the early inhabit- 
ants of Harrison township, but died in Locke township in 1878. He was the father 
of ten children: Sarah, Caroline, Elizabeth, Daniel, Benjamin. Diana, Thillman, 
Susanna, Mary, Levina, seven of whom are are living. When the parents of these 



ME3I0IRS OF INDIAN A. 113 

children came to this region they were fortunate enough to possess some means by 
which they purchased eighty acres of woodland. They attended the Lutheran 
Church. Mr. Clause was a Democrat and was one of the substantial men of his 
section. Mrs. Fink was born in Medina county, Ohio, April, 1837, and was ten 
years of age when brought to Elkhart county. After Mr. Fink's marriage he settled 
on a woodland farm in Locke township, which he set to work to clear and on this 
farm he made his home until 1862, when he enlisted in Company I, Seventy-fourth 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry with which he served until the war terminated, participa- 
ting in the engagements at Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, the Atlanta campaign, the 
battle of Jonesboro and in numerous skirmishes. He was in the hospital during 
the winter of 1862-3. The gun which he held in his hand was shot to pieces in the 
first day's battle of Chickamauga, and he also found some shot in the haversack 
which be carried at his side, but was himself uninjured. He was always found at 
the post of duty and he was recognized as a true, tried and faithful soldier. His 
army career terminated at Washington, D. C, in 1865, and he returned to his 
farm in Locke township and once more took upon himself the duties of civil life. 
Since 1866 he has been a resident of the farm he now occupies. He is a member 
of the G. A. K. of Wakarusa, and also belongs to the Masonic fraternity of the same 
place. Ho is a public-spirited man and has alwaj's helped to advance the interests 
of his section. He has one of the best improved farms of his section and gives con- 
siderable of his attention to tilling the soil. He and his estimable wife have reared 
a family of nine children: Henry A., born December 26, 1854, is living in South 
Bend; Sarah A., born December 18, 1856 is the wife of John Eiddle, living in 
Seneca county, Ohio; Reuben, born February 4, 1859, married, is a druggist of South 
Bend; Alcetta, born July 30, 1861, is the wife of Elliott Crull; Emanuel, born 
April 2, 1866, is a teacher near South Bend; John, born October 6, 1869, is a drug- 
gist of South Bend; Frankie was born July 17, 1875; Charles was born December 
11, 1878, and Mabel was bom August 27, 1882. The last three are at home. This 
is one of the finest families of the county, each and every member of which tries to 
live useful and correct lives, and judging by the numerous friends they have gath- 
ered about them the)' are without doubt succeeding. 

William Mack, cashier of Studebaker Bros. Manufacturing Company, of South Bend, 
Ind. , is greatly esteemed throughout the city for his conspicuous ability, honorable 
business methods and geniality, and is considered a useful and trusted man by 
his employers. He was born in Hanover, Chautauqua Co., N. Y., October 9, 
1828, a son of John and Clarissa W. (Hanford) Mack, natives of New Hampshire, 
and Connecticut respectively, of Scotch-Irish and English origin. The Macks were 
among the early settlers of the New England States, and early members of the fam- 
ily were distinguished participants in the war for independence. The father and 
grandfather were farmers and early settlers of Chautauqua couuty, N. Y., but the 
former was also a lumberman and ilid cousideraljle business as interpreter for the 
Government among the Indians. He died in South Bend in 1877, having come to 
this place in the fall of 18-14. He followed different callings, and for some years 
was secretary for Alexis Coquillard, and assisted him in the removal of the Potta- 
watomie Indians from this section. He was Mr. Coquillard' s secretary when the 
latter laid out the town of Lowell, now part of South Bend. His wife bore him 
three sons and one daughter that grew to maturity: John, Walter, William and 
Helen, and his second wife bore him two children, one of whom is living. James L., 
of St. Louis. William Mack remained in the State of his birth until about sixteen 
years of age, then came to South Bend and at once began learning the mason's 
trade which he followed as his chief means of livelihood until 1865, at which time 
he became book-keeper and cashier for Studebaker Bros., and has filled the last 
named position with ability ever since. He has almost grown up with this immense 
manufacturing establishment and has held one of the most important positions sub- 
ject to the bestowal of the proprietors. His executive ability and intelligent views 



114 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

on all matters of importance have been recognized and be has served as a member 
of the city council and as water-works trustee and many years ago was trustee of 
the village of South Bend. He received his early schooling in the rural dis- 
tricts of New York and in the Fredonia (New York) Academy, but his practical 
knowledge was obtained in the hard but useful school of experience. He is a cour- 
teous and obliging gentleman, always takes pleasure in assisting others and in all 
his business relations he is punctual, reliable and merits the confidence rejMsed in 
him. He has attained to the commandery in the A. F. & A. M., and he and his 
wife, whom he married in 1852, and whose maiden name was Laurette Thurber, are 
members in good standing in the Baptist Church. Mrs. Mack was born on Penn- 
sylvania soil and came to LaPorte county, Ind., in her youth. She bore her hus- 
band two sons: Walter E.,of Cleveland, Ohio, and William H., of the A. C. Staley 
Manufacturing Company, of which he is secretary and treasurer. 

David Rodibaugh, who for sixty-one years has been a resident of Jackson town- 
ship, Elkhart Co., Ind. , was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, on January 18, 
1819, a son of David and Saloma (Rodibaugh) Rodibaugh, the former of whom 
was born in Westmoreland county, Penn. , a son of John Rodibaugh, who was of 
German extraction, and died in the Keystone State. David Rodibaugh, father of 
the subject of this sketch, grew to manhood in his native State, and in 1812 moved 
to Ohio and became the owner of a tract of Government land. Owing to the fact 
that he lived on the frontier, he was not a soldier of the war of 1812, for his serv- 
ices were required to protect the homes of the early settlers. He cleared his farm 
from timber and sold it in 1831 and here, also, settled on a tract of Government 
land in Jackson township, Elkhart county. On this farm he resided until his death 
which occurred on December 4, 18-14. He was a man devoted to his business, paid 
strict attention to clearing his farms, and being hard-working, honest and upright, he 
became possessed of considerable means. He experienced many hardships in his 
frontier career, but prospered through it all, was a life-long member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church and was devoted to Christian work. His many years of hard 
labor provided each of his seven children with homes after his death, and gave them 
comforts throughout his life. He held official positions of trust in his towaship, 
was interested in all enterprises tending to improve the section in which he lived, 
and his death, which occurred in his fifty-seventh year, was greatly deplored. His 
wife was born in the same county in Pennsylvania as he himself was, and died in 
Indiana in 1869. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was 
a woman of true Christian spirit. She became the mother of thirteen children, but 
only reared seven: Adam, Leah, Samuel, Lavina, David, Susan, who is Mrs. Row- 
ell, of Goshen; John, Lyda, Isaac, Mary A., Catherine, Abner, Eliza, who is 
Mrs. Butler, of Jackson township. David, Mrs. Eowell and Mrs. Butler are the 
only members of the family that are now living. The subject of this sketch has 
been a resident of Elkhart county since he was twelve years of age, and accordingly 
became familiar with pioneer life in Ohio and Indiana. He attended the subscrip- 
tion schools which were in vogue in his day, in which he acquired a rudimentary 
knowledge of the three R's. He remained with his father until twenty-four years of 
age, then took up the battle of life for himself, and on November 17, 1842, was 
united in marriage to Martha J. Shaw, who was born in Virginia, July 26, 1823, and 
who was a daughter of one of the old pioneer settlers of Elkhart county. To them 
four children were born: the first an infant son, born and died September 6, 1843; 
Albert W., was born April 1, 1845, and died September 13, 1S47; Elmira, born 
August 19, 1847, and died October 14, 1872; Lorenzo D., born October 13, 1850, 
is now the owner of a woolen and saw-mill at Baiuter, Jackson township. The 
mother of these children died June 16, 1852, and on January 1, 1856, Mr. Kodi- 
baugh took Rebecca Baringer for his second wife, her birth having occurred in 
Pennsylvania March 4, 1829, a daughter of David Baringer, who came to Elkhart 
county, Ind., during the early history of this section. To the second marriage a 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 115 

family of nine children were born, as follows: David D., born April 11, 1856, 
is living at New Paris; Sylvester D., born November 3, 1857, and died May 2, 1881; 
Andrew J., born May 29. 1859, is married and is residing near the old home; 
Rebecca J., was born May 20, i860, and is the wife of Ira Miller, of Jack- 
son township; Liiciuda, was born November 3. 1861. and is the wife of Jacob 
M'yland; Oliver P. M. . was born October 13, 1863. and died October 7, 1865; Su- 
sanna, was born April 20, 1865, and died October 15, 1865; Lovina, was born Decem- 
ber 31, 1866, and Emma A., born March 8, 1868, is married to Charles Wyland, of 
Jackson township. The Bariugers were among the early settlers of the county and 
the mother of Mrs. Rodibaugh is still a resident of Jackson township and has 
passed the eighty-fifth milestone of life. Mr. Rodibaugh started to farming after 
his first marriage, is now the owner of a large tract of laud and is one of the most 
responsible men of his township. He has been a Republican in polities, but is now 
a member of the People's party. He has not been particularly active in the polit- 
ical arena, but has held a number of township oflices with credit to himself 
and to the satisfaction of all concerned. Although he started out to fight life's bat- 
tles with little means, he has been eminently successful and has each of his chil- 
dren a farm valued at from 310,000 to §12,000, but in the accumulation of his 
means he has been generous in assisting worthy causes, being especially liljeral to 
schools and churches. Farming and stockraising have been his principal callings 
throughout life, and the success which has followed him in these lines is an example 
to others to "go and do likewise. '' 

H. D. Johnson is the general superintendent of the immense wagon and carriage 
manufacturing establishment of South Bend, Ind. , and also of the Chicago & 
South Bend Railroad. To the duties of these offices he brings the special qualifica- 
tions of a wide range of practical experience, sound judgment and thoroughly prac- 
tical knowledge. He was bom September 8, 1859, in Monroe, Mich., and was the 
second son of C. G. Johnson, a native of the Wolverine State, and Abbie Cobb John- 
son, of the State of New York. His rare qualifications for handling large interests 
ably were mainly inherited from his father, who for eighteen years was cashier of 
the First National jiank of Monroe, and the owner of two flouring mills and one 
woolen mill at the same place. He was for years chairman of the Michigan State 
Board for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind. An intelligent, pushing man of affairs, he 
faithfully, carefully and efficiently discharged the duties of every position he held, 
and is now one of the wealth}' retired citizens of Monroe. Mr. Johnson was reared 
in Monroe, graduated from the high school of that place, after which he entered 
Lake Forest Academy, where he remained for two years, and subsequently pursued 
his studies for two more years at Beloit College. His school life over, he returned to 
Monroe, where he learned the miller's trade and was presented with one of his fa- 
ther's steam flouring mills, which he conducted in a successful manner for several 
years. On March 4, 1882, Mr. Johnson came to South Bend, and entered as 
an apprentice in the wagon department of Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing 
Company. Later he purchased an interest in the company, and held successively 
the positions of assistant superintendent, assistant manager and finally general 
superintendent, working his own way up to the latter position, which he now occu- 
pies. He has proved to be the right man in the right place, and under his able 
supervision the work of these mammoth factories moves along with clock-work pre- 
cision. Possessing a naturally keen and discerning mind, he has fine business at- 
tainments and is decidedly practical. In September, 1881, he was married to the 
daughter of Mr. J. M. Studebaker, vice-president of the company. To them three 
children have been born. Mr. Johnson is one of the originators of the South Bend & 
Chicago Railroad, of which he was made general superintendent upon its organiza- 
tion. He is also a member of the National Union of the Ancient Order of United 
Workmen, and an associate member of the American Institute of Mining Engineers. 
Being interested in St. Bernard dogs, he is president of the South Bend Kennel 
Club, and one of the board of governors of the American St. Bernard Club. 



116 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Lorenzo D. Rodibaugh. Among the wide-awake business men of Elkhart county, 
Ind. , it is safe to say that none enjoys a larger measure of success and public con- 
fidence than Mr. Rodibaugh, whose business is as prosperous, in proportion to the 
cajiital invested, as that of any other in the county. He was born in the county in 
which he now resides October 13, 1850, to David and Martha Jane (Shaw) Rodi- 
baugh, a sketch of whom is given in this volume. Lorenzo D. was reared on the 
farm on which his father is still residing, and the district schools in the vicinity of 
his home afforded him a practical education, although he was compelled to assist 
his father on the farm at an early age. In 1873 he began an independent career, 
for which he was better iitted than the average young man, for besides possess- 
ing sound intelligence he was very practical and far-seeing and in his youth had 
been drilled in the thorough, if rather hard, school. The first wages of his own 
which he earned was in his father's extensive woolen mills, and there he remained 
three years, obtaining a practical insight into the details of the business. This mill 
was the first to be erected in the county and did quite an extensive carding business, 
which became very much reduced during the war. The mill was then purchased 
bj- another j^arty, who greatly improved it in every way and operated it with success 
for about twelve years. However, in 1872, he sold it to Clark & Rodibaugh, and 
by them it was conducted in a very successful manner until 1877, when Lorenzo 
D. Rodibaugh bought the interest of Mr. Clark and the firm from 1877 to 1888 was 
known as Rodibaugh & Son. In the last mentioned year Lorenzo D. Rodibaugh 
became the sole proprietor of the business and has conducted it in such a successful 
manner that it has become one of the leading establishments of the county and is a 
great credit to the good judgment and intelligence of the proprietor and manager. 
Mr. Rodibaugh sold his flouring mill to Thomas Clayton, it being the oldest mill in 
northern Indiana. Mr. Rodibaugh has what is called a two-sets woolen mills and 
eleven looms. His establishment gives employment to eighteen hands; and tine 
blankets, flannel and skirtings of a high grade are turned out in large quantities. 
In dimensions the mill is -10x90 feet, a substantial frame building, and the dye house 
is 30x40 feet. The mill is finely fitted up with the latest improved machinery that 
it is possible to get for the successful conduct of the business. They turn out some 
of the finest work that is done in the country and there is a large demand for the 
product of these mills. Everything is thoroughly inspected before leaving the 
mills, and it is hardly necessary to say that Mr. Rodibaugh in all cases uses the 
very best material he can buy. Under the able management of its present proprie- 
tor the business has experienced a prosperous and reassuring growth and is looked 
upon as one of the best conducted and most reliable of its kind in the country. For 
some time past Mr. Rodibaugh has also been interested in the lumber business and 
has a well-equipped saw mill which has a capacity of 8,000 feet per day. He 
makes a specialty of manufacturing hardwood, especially oak, and in this establish- 
ment five or six men are employed. Both plants are supplied with water power 
fi'om the Elkhart River. Politically Mr. Rodibaugh has always been a Republican 
up to withiu a few years when he began supporting the Democratic party. He is a 
public-spirited and enterprising man of affairs; is an acquisition to the county, and 
is deservedly a worthy and esteemed citizen. In 1871 he was married to Miss Alice 
Lower, who was born in Elkhart township, September 13, 1855, a daughter of 
Daniel and Lydia Lower. Mr. and Mrs. Rodibaugh have four children: Melven M., 
born September 26, 1874; Clara M., born March 17, 1877; Myrtle M., born May 2, 
1881; Lawrence, born April 21, 1883; and have a pretty and comfortable home in a 
fine portion of the town. They are popular and well liked and move in the highest 
social circles of the section in which they reside. Mr. Rodibaugh is a self-made 
man and one whose good name has remained untarnished. 

E. B. RcssELL, secretary of the Indiana Traveling Men's Accident Association of 
South Bend, Ind., is a native of Genesee county. Mich., his birth occurring at Mt. 
Morris, July 10, 1859, but in the beautiful city of Detroit he was principally reared. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 117 

His father, J. B. Russell, was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, is uow 
superannuated and a resident of Scotts, Mich. He was born in Niagara county, N. 
Y. , and for over thirty years was an active laborer of his church, and for a number 
of years a prominent member of the Detroit conference. He was married to Miss 
Margaret J. Ferrill, and to them were given two children: E. B. and Carrie, the 
former of whom was educated iu the State Normal School of Ypsilanti, Mich., which 
institution he left a short time before graduating. He then went on the road for 
Ivison, Blakeman, Taylor & Co., as their Michigan representative, and after hold- 
ing this position for three 3'ears, he entered the employ of the Detroit Evening 
Journal, of which he was superintendent of circulation and acting business manager 
for four years, resigning this position to take the western ofifice of the Chicago Daily 
News, located at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He remained thus employed for five years, or 
until July, 1892, when he resigned to engage in his present work, and since that 
time has been one of the progressive and prominent business men of South Bend. 
He organized the Indiana Traveling Men's Accident Association July 23, 1892, of 
which substantial organization the following oificers were elected: Albert Listen- 
berger, president; Leighton Pine, vice-president; M. B. Staley, treasurer; E. B. 
Russell, secretary; H. T. Montgomery, surgeon. Board of Directors: C. B. 
Stephenson, chairman; H. G. Miller, Cary Owen, A. H. Stephenson. J. C. Birdsell, 
Jr. , Albert Listenberger, Thad. S. Taylor, E. B. Russell, C. B. Hibberd, George 
H. Hummell. Vice-presidents: A. A. Holcomb, Kansas; William A. Meyer, Iowa; 
C. A. Prior, Michigan; J. W. Raynor, Ontario; B. F. Hevener, Pennsylvania; E. 
R. Lightcap, Illinois; R. J. Wollett, Indiana; E. T. Wilson, Nebraska; J. G. 
Stankey, Oklahoma Territory; Mont. Tillotson, New York; H. B. Watterman, 
Indiana; H. A. Rounds, Maine; T. J. Swan, Wyoming; E. J. Richardson, Washing- 
ton, D. C. ; E. J. Ruggles, Massachusetts; G. Comstock, Texas; N. J. Rice, Missouri; 
C. A. Gould, Kentucky; D. J. Caine, Ohio; C. W. Beall, Minnesota. The member- 
ship at this writing is over 5,000. Mr. Russell has taken great pains and much 
interest in forming this association, and under his most capable supervision it has 
had the most rapid growth of any similar association ever organized in the world 
during a corresponding period. The association is for the benefit of traveling men 
only, and is not, as its name would imply, a local organization, but has members in 
every State and Territory in the Union, and even foreign countries are contributing 
to its membership. It is believed that this association will be one of the largest of 
its character in the world, and as it takes only the most preferred risks known to 
accident insurance companies, it is believed that the cost to the members will never 
exceed S5 per annum, for §5,000 accident insurance. In event of death by accident 
the association pays the beneficiary §5,000. In event of temporary disability, the 
insured receives §25 per week, not exceeding tifty-two weeks. For loss of both 
arms, both legs or both eyes by accident, the insured receives §5,000; for one hand 
or one foot he receives §1,250, and if disabled for a period of two years or over he is 
considered permanently disabled, and receives §2,500. This association has been of 
great value to the city of South Bend, and will continue to be so, through the 
advertising that the city will receive by virtue of the home office being permanently 
located here. Mr. Russell deserves much credit for this enterprise, and is a 
deservedlj' popular man in South Bend. 

Daniel Lower. During the forty odd years that this gentleman has been a res- 
ident of Elkhart county, Ind., he has thoroughly identified himself with every in- 
terest of the same, and has been very public-spirited and progressive. He was 
born in Berks county, Penn., April 24, 1825, the eldest but one of eight children 
born to John and Mary (Mullen) Lower, the former of whom was also a product of 
Berks county, where he was born in 1801. His parents. Christian and Christina 
Lower, were descended from early settlers of this section. Christian's father, who 
bore the same name as himself, having been born in Germany. He came to this 
country long before the opening of the Revolution, and upon his farm in Berks 



118 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

county, a fort was erected during that war which stood for many years. When the 
subject of this sketch was nine years of age this fort was still standing and he well 
remembers the construction of the building. It was also used in early days as a 
protection from the Indians. The great-grandfather, Christian Lower, reared three 
sons: Christian, John and Benjamin, but John died when young and only the other 
two reached mature years. The eldest of these. Christian, became a large land 
holder and prominent in the pioneer life of Pennsylvania. Benjamin was a soldier 
in the war of 1812 and was captain of a company. Both Christian, Sr. , and Chris- 
tian, Jr., died on the old home farm in Pennsylvania, the latter becoming the 
father of three sons: Christian, John and Daniel. He died in the harvest field 
from drinking cold water when overheated. Each of his children married and 
reared familes of their own. The older members of the family were Tories and 
Democrats. John Lower grew to manhood in Pennsylvania, married there Mary 
Miller and in the old fort on his grandfather's farm his two eldest children were 
born. His wife's parents were Solomon and Mary Miller, native Germans, who early 
became residents of Berks county, Penn. Mrs. Lower was born in 1803, and 
with her husband removed to Ohio and until 1854 was a resident of Stark county, 
Ohio, then came to Elkhart county, lud. , and settled near Goshen. The father died 
there in 1859 and the mother in 1876, both being earnest members of the church at 
the time of their death. The father was a Democrat throughout life. The children 
reared by this worthy couple were as follows: William, who died in 1872, was a 
farmer of this county; Daniel; John is a man of family and is residing in Elkhart 
county; Leah died in 1880; Evaline was married to Andrew Youst, of Jefferson 
township; Eliza is the wife of Henry Khodes, of Harrison township; Laviua is the 
wife of Isaac Kile, of Harrison township. The family came from Ohio to Indiana 
by wagon and here became identified as the leading citizens of their adopted county. 
Daniel Lower attended the subscription schools of his day and was reared by his 
worthy parents to be honest and industrious. In 1817 he was married in Ohio to 
Lydia Snyder, who was born in Stark county, Ohio, May 31, 1828, a daughter of 
George A. and Lydia (Bear) Snyder, the former of whom was born in Maryland, a 
son of George and Rebecca (Young) Snyder, and became one of the first residents 
of Ohio. Lydia Bear was a daughter of Samuel and Catherine (Devalo) Bear, who 
also removed from Maryland to Stark county, Ohio. The parents of Mrs. Lower 
were married in Stark county, Ohio, and in due course of time became the parents 
of eight children: Catherine the wife of Jacob Schuman, of Elkhart county; Mi- 
chael who is a farmer of Marshall county, Ind. ; Lydia (Mrs. Lower), Mary, who 
became the wife of Henry Shirk, of Elkhart township; William, who is residing in 
Stark county, Ohio; Josiah, whose home is in Elkhart county; John, who is living 
in Stark county. Ohio, and Edward, who lives in Marshall county, Ind. The father 
and mother of these children died in Goshen in 1882 and" 1891 respectively, 
having been residents of this county from 1864. They were members of the 
Lutheran Church, and the father was a farmer and a Democrat politically. All 
their children attained mature years. Mrs. Lower was reared on the old homestead 
in Stark county, but for many years has been a resident of Elkhart county and 
until 1882 resided on a farm, but since that time has lived at 517 South Main 
street, Goshen. Although Mr. Lower met with many hardships in early life he has 
been successful, all of which is owing to his own determination and push. Polit- 
ically he is a Democrat, and has held the office of township trustee for four years. 
He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church and in this faith have reared 
their children, whose names are as follows: Edward, who was born October 15, 
1848, is a carpenter of Goshen, is married and has a family; Daniel S., who was born 
April 18, 1850, is a cabinet-maker of Goshen, is married and has no children; 
Christina was born September 12, 1852, is the widow of John Evans, and 
has three children; Lydia A. was born August 28, 1854, and is the wife of L. D. 
Eodibaugh; Mary J., born December 13, 1856, is the wife of Perry Miller, of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 119 

Elkhart township and has three children; Frances, born June 19, 1858, is the 
wife of Jeremiah Holsmyer and has two children; George, born September 28, 
1864, is married to Addie Alasander, and is a hardwood finisher of Goshen, and 
Minnie, who was born August 17, 1867, is the wife of Ralph Higy, a machinist of 
Goshen. Mr. Lower is in good circumstances and owns a good farm of 143 acres 
in Elkhart township, and the fine residence property on which he lives in Goshen. 

B. F. Waldorf, es-county surveyor of St. Joseph county, Ind. , was born in 
Morrow county, Ohio, March 25, 1852, a son of Samuel D. and Maria (Coleman) 
Waldorf, who were born in New Jersey and Pennsylvania respectively. The pater- 
nal grandfather, Philip Waldorf, was a German by birth and when about six years 
of age was brought to this country and in the State of New Jersey spent the re- 
mainder of his days, from which State he enlisted in the war of 1812. He was a 
farmer by occupation. Samuel D. Waldorf, his son, was also a farmer and in an 
early day removed to Ohio, where he was married and resided until 1858, when he 
made a home for himself and family on a farm in St. Joseph county, lud. He was 
twice married, his first wife being a Miss Hopkins, by whom he had one son and two 
daughters: James, who served in the Second Minnesota Regiment during the war; 
Mary and Sarah, both of whom are deceased. The mother of these children was 
of Scotch descent. After a twenty years' residence in Center township he re- 
moved to South Bend, where he, in process of time, was called from this life, in 
1884. His widow survived him five years, having borne him eight children, of 
whom four sons survive: C. S., B. F., J. M. and J. D. The subject of this sketch 
was reared in this county, and obtained a good education in the county and city 
schools. He was an ambitious youth, anxious to obtain money, and when quite 
young he hired out to John Brownfield, a dealer in dry goods and one of the first 
business men in the city, and in his employ remained for some time. He then, with 
his brothers, embarked in the grocery and agricultural implement business and for 
a number of years they carried on a successful business, winning the respect and 
confidence of a large number of patrons. In 1888 he was elected by the Democratic 
party, which he had always supported, to the office of county surveyor, was hon- 
ored by a re-election in 1890, and retired from the office in 1892, carrying with 
him the good will and respect of his constituents as well as of his political op- 
ponents. He is now following the calling of a salesman, and his agreeable manners 
and desire to please have made him quite popular. He is a member of that worthy 
order the K. of P. His marriage was celebrated in 1876, Miss Mary E. Hopkins 
becoming his wife. Two sons and two daughters have been given them: Nellie, 
now in the high school of South Bend; Guy, Walter and June. 

Samuel S. Perlet. the capable manager of the Coquillard Wagon Works and 
acting trustee of the Coquillard estate, was born in Portland, Me., October 8, 1861, 
son of Jonas H. and Fannie S. (Smith) Perley, natives of Maine and Massa- 
chusetts respectively. The Perleys are of English stock and came to this country 
about the year 170(), locating in Massachusetts, where members of the family passed 
through the Revolutionary war and later the War of 1812. The majority of the 
male members of the family were ministers of the gospel, and were eloquent and 
faithful workers of the Christian cause. Jonas H. Perley was president of the 
Board of Trade in Portland, Me. , for four years, being the second man to hold that 
office, and for many years he was an influential member of society in that city. In 
1869 he removed to Detroit, Mich. , where he embarked in business with Charles 
Merrill and Thomas Palmer, and until 1875 they successfully conducted a large 
lumber trade. At the above mentioned date Mr. Perley retired from the business, 
later came to South Bend on a visit to his children and was here called from life in 
March, 1892, after a long and well-spent life. He left the heritage of an unsullied 
name to his children, which was rather to be desired than great riches. He was 
the father of nine children, seven of whom survive him: Mrs. George W. Van 
Dyke, of Detroit; Dr. H. O., of Washington, D. C, a surgeon in the regular army; 



120 PICTORIAL AJffD BIOGRAPHICAL 

Clayton J.; Maude, the widow of Alexis Coquillaid; Samuel S.; Artbui- P. and 
Kirk W. The subject of this sketch was principally brought up in Detroit, his 
residence in Portland, Me., comprising the tirst ten years of his life. He was edu- 
cated in the famous university of Notre Dame, at South Bend, graduating in 1S81, 
and immediately thereafter entered the office of the Coquillard Wagon Works, his 
first position being that of book-keeper. He was soon after promoted to cashier and 
private secretary-, which position he held until Mr. Coquillard's death, when Mr. 
Parley was made trustee of the estate under his will, aod also manager of the 
wagon factory. Verj' ably has he discharged his trust and the business has been 
unusually prosperous under his management, and the j)atronage has rapidly in- 
creased, which is the result, without doubt, of his wide range of practical ex- 
perience, sound judgment and thorough knowledge of the requirements of the trade. 
None but skilled hands are employed and the materials used are of the best, while 
the designs are new and artistic, and the workmanship substantial and graceful. 
Although Mr. Perley is young in years he has shown remarkable business judgment 
and has successfully developed and handled the great business and estate since it 
came into his hands. He is also connected with one of the largest hardwood lumber 
businesses in the State, which is owned and controlled by himself and his two 
brothers, Arthur P. and Kirk W. 

Mark B. Thompson was one of the leading pioneers of Elkhart county. lud. , 
and as a public- spirited citizen, a kind and accommodating neighbor and an honor- 
able man of business, he had not his superior in this section of the country. He was 
among the very first settlers of Jackson township, Elkhart county, coming thither 
from Wayne county, Ind., in 1S29, where he had lived for a number of years. He 
was a native of Orange county, N. Y. , where he was born November 17, 1802, of 
Scotch-Irish descent, and a son of John Thompson, who made an early settlement 
in the State of New York. The latter was a soldier in the War of 1812 and was in 
the battle of New Orleans. His occupation was that of a raftsman of the Ohio and 
Mississippi Eivers, and while on one of his trips died in the city of New Orleans. 
The Thompsons removed from New Y'ork to Butler county, Ohio, in 1803, and there 
devoted their attention to tilling the soil until after the death of the mother, when 
the father, Mark B. Thompson, who was born in Orange county, N. Y., December 
17, 1802, emigrated to Indiana, and upon his arrival in Elkhart county, pre-empted 
the east half of section 2, Jackson township, which was in a primitive condition and 
heavily covered with timber. The nearest neighbors at that time were Col. John 
Jackson, Elias Riggs, William Simpson, Major Violett, William Latta and Asel 
Sparkling. He was first married to Jane Thomas, a daughter of John Thomas, a 
native of Wales, and took for his second wife Harriet Howell, a widow, by whom he 
became the father of five children: Charles E., Catherine J., Mark B., Lafayette H., 
and a daughter that died in early childhood. The father was called from life on 
the 6th of May, 1872. 

Charles M. R. Haeske, superintendent of the wagon department of Studebaker 
Brothers, of South Bend, Ind. , is a courteous and obliging gentleman, and since 
holding the above-mentioned position has shown himself to be thoroughly compe- 
tent and reliable — in fact, the right man in the right place. He was born in the 
Province of Posen, Germany, October 27, 1856, a son of Michael and Frances 
(Uebler) Haeske, the former of whom is deceased, but the latter is still a resident 
of the old country. Seven sons and one daughter were born of the union of 
this worthy couple, and Charles M. R. was reared in his native land, in the pub- 
lic schools of which country he received a practical education under his father, 
who was a successful and experienced educator. When in his fifteenth year, 
Charles M. R. sailed for America and landed in the city of New York, after which 
he came directly to South Bend, Ind., where his parents had fi-iends living. He 
at once secured a humble position with Studebaker Brothers as chore-bo}', thread 
cutter, etc., but after a time began learning the blacksmith's trade with the same 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAJfA. 121 

firm, liis evenings being spent in attending nigbt school, in which he obtained a 
fair English education. From time to time, as his services demanded, he was pro- 
moted to better positions, and through his own native talent and worth to his em- 
ployers he attained his present position as superintendent of the wagon depart- 
ment — a responsible position, but one which he has filled in a very satisfactory 
manner and to the decided benefit of his employers. In the management of the 
men that are under him he has shown himself to be intelligent and firm, yet 
genial and obliging, and he commands the hearty goocl will and respect of his 
subordinates. Ever since coming to the United States he has identified himself 
with the interests of this country, which can boast no worthier man among its Ger- 
man-American citizens. Some time ago, owing to impaired health, he spent three 
years in his native land, but upon the restoration of his health he returned to South 
Bend, and here has since resided. In 1882 he took for his companion through life 
Miss Sophie Meyer of South Bend, and to their union three children have been 
given: Clyde F., Ethel M. and Margaret I. Mr. and Mrs. Haeske are members of 
the German Methodist Episcopal Church, and socially he belongs to the A. F. & A. 
M. and the K. O. T. M. 

Hekkv F. Elbel, foreman of the stock department of the Singer Manufactiir- 
ing Company of South Bend, Ind., is universally popular and respected in busi- 
ness circles, and the company with which he is connected is a worthy and valu- 
able addition to the skilled industries of South Bend. He is a native of the city, 
his birth having occurred November 9, 1856, to Lorenz and Johanna (Mainer) 
Elbel, who came from their native land of Germany in 1851 and took up their resi- 
dence in South Bend, where they still reside. In their family' were six sons and 
two daughters, the former of whom are skilled and experienced musicians, their 
names being as follows: Henry F., Herman, Richard, Robert, Fred and Louis. The 
father and his sous comprise an orchestra which is known as the Elbel Family Or- 
chestra. They are all natural musicians and are well known, not only in St. Jo- 
seph, but in the surrounding counties as well. Henry F. Elbel was reared in the 
city of South Bend, and in the public schools of that city he obtained a practical 
education. When only a lad he started out to make his own way in the world as 
an employe of the Singer Manufacturing Company, and although his position was 
humble and his compensation small, it was an excellent school for the young lad, 
and taught him lessons of industry and self reliance, and as his usefulness to his 
employers increased he was promoted accordingly: and, after filling various posi- 
tions was given his present responsible place. He is now the oldest employe in 
the service of the company, for he has been with them since 1869, and their trust 
and confidence in his ability, intelligence and faithfulness is unbounded. He is a 
young man of rare business qualifications, and it is needless to say that he has im- 
proved his opportunities and deserves the success which he now enjoys. He is a 
Democrat politically, and on that ticket was elected a member of the city council in 
1888, by the largest majority ever given in his ward, in which capacity he served 
four years, being the youngest man ever elected to that body in South Bend. He 
was made president of the Turners' Society in 1891, and is now serving his third 
term. He is a stockholder and secretary of the South Bend Porcelain Company, 
and socially belongs to the K. O. T. M. He is still unmarried, and makes his 
home with his parents. His sisters are Antonia and Laura. 

Thomas Clayton. Among the grist millers of Indiana, none are more thoroughly 
posted in their busine.ss, or manufacture a better brand of flour than Mr. Clayton, 
whose long experience in this line of work has made him perfect. On June 18, 
1837, he was born in Crawford county, Ohio, and was the sixth child in a family of 
ten children, born to Thomas and Mary E. (Myers) Clayton, the former of whom 
was born in Richland county, Ohio, in 1804, and there resided until he reached man's 
estate, when he removed to Crawford county, Ohio, where he resided ten years. At 
the end of this period be removed to Van Wert county, where he was called from 



123 PICTORIAL AND BIOQRAPEICAL 

life in 1852, at the age of forty-eight years. He was a Democrat in politics, a 
prominent man politically and socially, as well as in a business way, and for many 
years was a leading member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He accumulated 
considerable means, was very public spirited, and for twelve or fifteen years filled 
the position of justice of the peace. Having been reared in the woods of Ohio, as 
a natural consequence, he was quite a Nimrod, and many deer fell victims to his skill 
with the rifle. In 1849 he lost his wife, whose birth had occurred in Pennsylvania, 
she being a daughter of George Myer.i, who, with his wife, was a native of Germany, 
their removal to America, and their settlement in Pennsylvania taking place in an 
early day. Later they took up their residence in Crawford county, Ohio, where 
they passed from life. Mr. Myers was an ofiicer in the War of 1812, and became a 
well-to-do farmer of Crawford county. He and his wife reared a family of ten 
children. Thomas Clayton, the father of the subject of this sketch, was married in 
Crawford county, and by his wife became the father of ten children: George AV. ; 
William, who died in Kosciusko county; Samuel, who is living at Milford, Ind. ; 
Nancy J., who died after marriage to John Duncan; Susan J., who died after her 
marriage to J. K. Masters; Thomas, the subject of this sketch; James, who is living 
in Goshen and was a soldier in the Civil war; Mary E., who is the wife of John 
Ellsworth of Missouri; Sarah, who died young; Henry, who died while serving in 
the Seventy-fourth Regiment, Indiana Volunteers, at the age of nineteen years, hav- 
ing been a participant in a number of important engagements. The parents of these 
children were communicants of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and were prosper- 
ous and substantial citizens of the section in which they resided. The paternal 
grandfather, Henry Clayton, came from England and endured the hardships and 
privations incident to pioneer life in Ohio, from which State he enlisted in the War 
of 1812, being a member of the United States army. He eventually became a 
resident of Allen county, Ind., where he paid the last debt of nature in 1855, having 
attained to an advanced age. His wife, who bore him ten children, died in Iowa, 
whither she had moved with her youngest children. Thomas Clayton, whose name 
is at the head of this sketch, remained with his parents in his native county until 
he attained the age of sixteen years, during which time he became familiar with 
pioneer life in the woods of Ohio. He led the usual life of the farmer's boy of 
that period, and while following the plow or wielding the hoe, not only improved 
and strengthened his muscles, but learned lessons of industry, economy and lionesty, 
which materially aided him in obtaining a competence in later years. What 
education he now has has been gained through his own efforts, and in the hard 
school of experience, but this work taught him self-reliance, and strengthened his 
judgment as nothing else could have done. In 1853 he came to Elkhart county, 
Ind., and began making his home in Jackson township with his aunt, Mrs. Chilcote, 
but was troubled very much with ague, and on that accoiint returned to Ohio, where 
he spent the winter, returning to Indiana in the spring. Since that time, with the 
exception of a few years when he lived in Kosciusko county, Elkhart county has 
been his home. He worked on a farm, and when twenty years of age he secured a 
small piece of woodland in Michigan, which he later traded for a team, and later 
traded the team for forty acres of land in Scott township, Kosciusko Co., 
Ind. , which was also heavily timbered. He sold this land and purchased a tract of 
land in Jackson township, Elkhart county, near New Paris, and lived one year on 
this farm, but disposed of this in 1864. and purchased a stock of dry goods in 
Milford, which he conducted two years with success. Following this he entered the 
milling business in Milford, but after successfully conducting this for six years, he 
disposed of it also. He then began farming in Kosciusko county, and in two years' 
time traded for his present farm in Elkhart county. He owns in one body 360 
acres of land, all of which was well improved, and devoted to the raising of the usual 
northern products. He has magnificent buildings, his residence which was erected 
in 1885, costing between $6,000 and §7,000. He has a fine bank barn 40x80 feet. 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIANA. 123 

Mr. Clayton is one of the most extensive stock raisers in the county, and one of 
its most enterprising, thorough and practical farmers. In 1888 he decided to again 
embark in milling at Baintertown, for which plant he traded 238 acres of land. He 
has conducted this in a very satisfactory manner from a financial standpoint, and 
the mill, which is what is called a lOO-barrel mill, having seven sets of rollers, turns 
out the brand of flour known as the Pride of New Paris, which is very popular 
and well known. Mr. Clayton also owns thirty-two acres of land near the mill, and 
a half interest in thirty-six acres of other land for water power. Mr. Clayton 
has been very successful as a man of business, although he has met with some 
reverses in his race for fortune, but his judgment has usually been exceptionally 
sound. He is of the stuff of which model citizens are made, and his record as a man 
of honor has remained untarnished. In politics a Republican, he has always taken 
an active interest in the good of his party, and has held the position of trustee of 
Jackson township, and the same in Van Bureu township, Kosciusko county. He 
was one of the county commissioners in 1887, and is well known in political circles 
as a reliable and substantial man. He was first married in March, 1860, to Miss 
Amanda Rahrer, daughter of Daniel Rahrer, who was one of the early pioneers of 
Elkhart county. Two children were born to this union: Enoch and Amanda, and 
when the latter was one year old, her mother died. Amanda was born in Jackson town- 
ship in 18-10, eventually married and became the mother of the following children: 
Gassius M., born June 25, 1860, is married and has two children; Mary B., born 
May 15, 1862, died when fifteen months old; Emma, born June 25, 1864, died at 
the age of two years; William E., born November 4, 1866, is a miller by trade; 
Daniel, born January 21, 1870, and James E., who was born March 2, 1873, died at 
the age of six months. The mother of these children was reared at New Paris, and 
was only thirty-three years of age at the time of her death. For his second wife, 
Mr. Clayton took Rebecca Curtis, who was born in Elkhart county, July 21, 1853, a 
daughter of Harrison and Mary (Kirkpatrick) Curtis, who were early pioneers of 
Elkhart, and are living at Milford. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis reared the following children: 
Martha, Rebecca J. (Mrs. Clayton), James H., Sarah E., Joseph E., Mary E., 
Susan, Atha, John E., Charles, Arthur and Ida. One child died in infancy. The 
parents of these children were from Ohio. Mr. Clayton's second union resulted in 
the birth of five children: Harlej-, born August 27, 1875; Perry, born May 28,1877; 
Otis, born January 14, 1879; Herbert, born October 26, 1880, and died young, and 
Craige, born December 13, 1883. Mr. Clayton has always been a patron of educa- 
tion, and has given his children good advantages. He is one of the most enterpris- 
ing citizens of the county, and he and his wife are worthy church members. He is 
a member of the Kosciusko Lodge, No. 418, A. F. & A. M., at Milford. 

Will A. Endley is the editor and proprietor of The Independent, of Walkerton, 
a breezy sheet, which enjoys a good circulation and is published in the interests of 
the community, especial attention being paid to local affairs, making it a history of 
the events that transpire in this locality. Moreover, it reviews most intelligently 
the public issues of the day, and its advertising columns are well filled and show 
that the merchants of Walkerton appreciate it as a medium for making themselves 
known to the people at large. The intelligent and able editor of this journal was 
born in La Grange, Ind. , October 9, 1863, and was principally reared in the towns 
of Butler and Brimtield, Ind., attending the schools of those places, where he 
obtained a practical education. At the age of sixteen years he entered the ofiice 
of the Visitor of Walkerton, where he learned the art of printing. In 1879, in 
company with Charles C. Richmond, son of Dr. Richmond, he established the Van- 
guard, which they published a short time. In 1880 Mr. Endley' s father purchased 
Mr. Richmond's interest and the paper was enlarged and changed to The Repub- 
lican, which they continued to successfully conduct for two or three years, when the 
Doctor sold out to his son and the latter removed to South Bend, where he was 
reporter for the Daily Tribune for some months. He then took charge of the local 



134 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

department of the Daily Times, holding this position until the paper was discon- 
tinued. Mr. Endley then went to Chicago where he worked at his trade two or 
three years, but in July, 1886, returned to St. Joseph county and bought out what 
was then the Visitor, of Walkerton, and changed it to the Independent, which he 
has since controlled and pul)lished. The paper is a spicy, independent, six-column, 
eight-page quarto, and as Mr. Endley is an experienced and practical printer he 
conducts his paper very successfully, notwithstanding the fact that he is quite a 
young man. He is a member of the K. of P., and being urbane, courteous and 
agreeable and an interesting conversationalist, he is welcomed in the highest circles 
of society. In 1888 he was married to Miss Nellie, daughter of Prof. J. A. Jones, 
formerly principal of the Walkerton schools, and for a number of years she was a 
teacher in the schools of South Bend. Mr. Endley is a son of the late lamented 
Dr. J. F. Endley, whose untimely death was sincerely mourned, not only by his 
immediate and sorrowing family, but also by all who knew him. The following is 
a short sketch of his life taken from the La Porte DaiJij Herald: "The Doctor was 
born near Jeromeville, Wayne county, Ohio, August 22, 1839, and was consequently 
in his fifty-third year at the time of his demise. When about five years old he moved 
with his parents to La Grange, this State, where he obtained his education in the 
public schools. As he reached manhood he read medicine and began the practice of 
that profession, afterward attending Rush and Bennett Medical Colleges, Chicago, 
from the latter of which he graduated January 5, 1871. June 21, 1861, Dr. Endley 
married Miss Nellie Coomer at La Grange. Two children were born to them, a 
daughter and a son, the former of whom died in infancy. The son. Will A., is pub- 
lisher of the Independent. In 1864 the Doctor l^ecame" a member of the I. O. O. F. 
From La Grange he removed to Brimfield, this State, where he began his first con- 
nection with the press, becoming a contributor to the Kendallville papers under the 
nom de plume of " Is Slinger," writing humorous articles. He also became local 
correspondent for the Standard. Dr. Endley remained seven years at Brimfield, 
going from there to Walkerton, where he at the time of his death had resided six- 
teen years. In 1879 he started a paper which was Republican in name and in fact. 
He published it about three years. About five years ago he issued the first number 
of the Independent, which has been a success from its inception. It began on a small 
scale, but has been enlarged from time to time. In size and editorial ability it com- 
pares favorably with its contemporaries. The Doctor wrote for the Independent from 
the commencement of its career, and for the past two years was editor. He served 
as councilman two terms and was secretary of the board of health at the time of his 
decease. Dr. Endley was a man of strong convictions. Whatever he Ijelieved to be 
right he clung to with tenacity. He was a devoted husband, an affectionate parent 
and an unswerving friend. He was a strong Republican, and at one time, particu- 
larly during the Garfield campaign, was very active in politics. He might have 
held office but seemed to have no fancy for it. Whatever cause he sustained he 
espoused because he believed in it with his whole heart. He was particularly 
devoted to Walkerton, and labored for its development with all the power he pos- 
sessed, and he was a power in the place, and was so recognized by everybody there, 
editing as he did the only newspaper in the town. He had an eye single to Walk- 
erton's interests and never failed to speak a good word for it. He was foremost 
on all public occasions, such as Fourth of July, Memorial Day, etc., and where he 
led, such was the confidence in him, and so highly was he esteemed, that other 
men did not hesitate to follow. He will be missed in Walkerton, probably in a way 
that no other person would be missed, and there was universal sorrow in the town 
at his demise, which came like a shock to the community, so unexpected was it. 
The feeling regarding the Doctor among members of the press was well expressed 
by the South Bead Times, which said: " The sudden death of Dr. J. F. Endley, of 
the Walkerton Independent, will be sincerely regretted by a host of friends who 
have of late years learned to highly prize his literary and journalistic work. He 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 125 

was a versatile writer — decidedly original, sometimes unique, and always interest- 
ing and entertaining." The Doctor was brimful of energy. Nothing was suffered 
to lag when he once took hold of it. He neglected nothing. He stood well in the 
medical profession, always keeping pace with the many improvements being con- 
stantly made. About three years ago he attended a physician's course in Bennett 
college, holding a professor's chair, dissecting for the class and lecturing. Dr. End- 
ley was twenty-four years engaged in the practice of medicine." AVhen his last 
sickness overtook him he at tirst doctored himself carefully but at last outside aid 
had to be called in, but without avail. Take him all in all he was a good citizen, 
and there was universal regret at the unexpected ending of so promising a career. 
Hon. Thomas J. Wolfe, dealer in men's and boys' clothing, gent's jewelry, 
watches, etc., at Walkerton, Ind., Las made the establishment over which he pre- 
sides a synonym for all that is popular, progressive and honest. His personal char- 
acter is as high as his business repute, his honorable deportment in all the relations 
of life commanding the confidence and respect of all who know him. He was born 
in a little log house near Ligonier, Noble county, Ind., August 8, 1851, son of 
Leonard and Lutitia (Martin) Wolfe, natives of Ohio and of German-Scotch ancestry. 
The maternal grandfather was a soldier in the War of 1812. The family came from 
Ohio to Indiana in wagons, in 1837, and for one year resided in Noble county and 
then removed to a farm near Middlebury in Elkhart county, after which they 
returned to Noble county in 1848 and purchased land about one and a half miles 
from Ligonier where they settled in the woods. They built a little log cabin, the 
chinks filled with mud, and a mud chimney in which they lived in true pioneer style 
until better improvements could be made. The woods were filled with wild game 
and wolves were numerous and sometimes dangerous, so much so that the mother 
would often throw coals of fire among them to frighten them away. On this place 
the father died in 1856, his widow surviving him until October, 1892. They reared 
a family of ten children: Martha, widow of C. C. Gilbert; William J., residing near 
Armour, S. Dak.; Jane, wife of Henry Hostetter, of Knox, Stark Co., Ind.; 
Ellison M. , of Lincoln township, this county; Maggie B., wife of F. M. Chapman, 
assessor of Ft. Wayne, Ind. ; Charles S., of Ligonier; Ehoda A., wife of J. J. Miller, 
of Walkerton; and George W., Theron A., and Thomas J., also of that place. The 
last mentioned was the youngest of the family and was reared on a farm in Noble 
county where he received such education as the common schools afforded, being 
compelled to walk two miles to a little log hovise to attend a three months' winter 
term of school. The remainder of his time was spent in helping to clear the forests, 
and in following the plow or wielding the hoe, in fact, he was made thoroughly 
familiar with pioneer life on a farm in all its phases. At the age of sixteen years 
he removed to Ligonier with his mother, the public schools of which he attended for 
three winters, his examination cards, dated 1868-9, being still in his possession. In 
1869 he began learning the dentist's profession and in the spring of 1870 located at 
Walkerton and worked at his profession exclusively for one year, at the end of 
which time he began clerking in a store belonging to his father-in-law, C. W. N. 
Stephens, as well as attending to the duties of his profession. He remained in the 
store until 1875, having charge of the clothing department, in which he afterward 
bought a half interest, and moved it to a store room adjoining and then assumed 
entire charge of the same. In March, 1883, he became sole possessor of the stock and 
has since conducted it very successfully alone. He began life a penniless boy, but 
the industry and push which he has ever manifested, have been rewarded and he is 
not only in good circumstances financially, but he is also an influential and respected 
citizen of his section, whose honesty is unimpeachable. In addition to his clothing 
house and tailoring establishment he also deals in baled hay and straw, and in 1892 
shipped about 375 car loads, and is the owner of two good farms besides town prop- 
erty. He is what may be termed self-made. His busy life does not prevent him 
from active participation in all worthy projects for the advancement of the material 



136 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

interests of his section, and has done much to advance and promote the well being of 
bis fellow citizens. In ISSO he was elected by his numerous friends to represent 
them in the Lower House of the State Legislature, and after serving very efficiently 
one term declined a re- nomination and also that of county clerk which was tendered 
him. He has always been a stanch Republican politically, and socially is a member 
of the A. F. & A. M., the I. O. O. F. and Knight Templars. He was married in 
1871 to Miss Mary F. Stephens, by whom he has seven children: Addie, Thomas J., 
Jr., Belle, Claude, Verne, Merton and Beatrice. 

Jackson Greene, farmer. The farming class of America, and especially of the 
northern tier of States, is notable for the degree of iutelligence that is possessed 
among its representatives. Jackson Greene belonged to one of the most progres- 
sive of families, and was proud of the fact that his father was one of those fast 
disappearing landmarks of heroic past, an early pioneer. Mr. Greene was born in 
Greene county, Ohio, December 18, 1814, son of John and Nancy (Jackson) Greene, 
natives of Delaware and of English ancestry. The father was left an orphan when 
a youth and was taken to visit relatives in the State of Maryland, but afterward 
became one of the early settlers of Greene county, Ohio. His means were very 
limited at this time but he was ambitious to become the owner of a home of his own, 
and for this purpose began looking around for a suitable loeatiou, and on his way 
to Michigan passed through St. Joseph county. After reaching the Lake State he 
purchased a tract of heavy timber land. However, in 1832, he came to St. Joseph 
county, Ind., and entered land by proxy, one mile from where the subject of this 
sketch resided, upon which he erected a little log cabin and lived in rude style 
until better improvements could be made. There were but three families in the 
vicinity at that time, but with characteristic vigor he set to work to clear his land, 
consisting of 196 acres, on which place he resided until his death in 1838, in 
which year there was a great deal of sickness. He was the father of fourteen 
children, two of whom died in infancy. Three sons and oue daughter only are 
now alive: Nelson, Daniel, James and Martha, widow of Richard Inwood. From 
this old and prolific family Greene township derived its name. In the early days 
of their settlement the Indians were far more plentiful than the whites, and wild 
game of various kinds roamed the woods, and from the cabin door the sire and sons 
often brought down deer with their rifles. Jackson Greene was eighteen years of 
age when his parents came thither, and was a healthy, strong and stalwart young 
man, well fitted to endure the struggles and hardships of pioneer life. His edu- 
cation was obtained in the common schools of Ohio, and after coming to this county, 
he attended two terms in a little log cabin, with greased paper for window lights 
and otherwise fitted up in a very primitive manner indeed. His life was devoted to 
agriculture, and he became the owner of a finely improved farm of 300 acres, which 
was conducted on progressive principles and was the source of a good income. 
Mr. Greene had every reason to be proud of his political record, for he cast his 
first vote at the first election held in the township, for Martin Van Buren, and voted 
for every Republican President since that time and never cast a vote outside of 
Greene township. He was more closely identified with the interests of his section 
than any other man living in it, and for twelve successive terms held the position 
of township trustee. He was the efficient public servant of Uncle Sam at Sumption 
Prairie postoffice, but though devoted to the good of his party he was never a 
particular aspirant for public favor. August 15, 1849, he led to the hymeneal 
altar Miss Mary Knott, daughter of David and Margaret (Braerley) Knott, natives 
of New Jersey, who first settled in Greene county, Ohio, and in 1837 in St. Joseph 
county, Ind. Of a family of six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Greene, only two 
are living: Margarette, wife of A. J. Beyers, and Charles B., of South Bend. 

Dr. Jacob R. Brown, physician and surgeon, of Sumption Prairie. The gen- 
tleman, the salient points of whose life history we shall endeavor to give below, is 
one of the most prominent physicians and surgeons in St. Joseph county, Ind., and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 127 

his experience in this way in civil life has been supplemented by the crucial one of 
witnessing death and the most terrible of wounds, with their attendant surgical 
operations, while in the Civil war, in which he was the eiiicieut surgeon in the Twen- 
ty-ninth Indiana Regiment for two years. As a gentleman. Dr. Brown commends 
himself most pleasantly to those with whom he comes in contact. He is a man of 
great force of character. He is well read and informed, not only as regards his pro- 
fession, but in the current topics of the day. He was born in Augusta, Carroll Co., 
Ohio, December 7, 1823, and at the present time is the oldest practitioner in the 
county. He is a son of Charles and Eliza (Fiuch) Brown, the former of whom was 
born in Virginia, and the latter in Maryland, both being of English origin. The 
paternal grandfather, Thomas Brown, was a colonel in the Eevolutionary war, and 
after the cessation of hostilities removed from his native State to Ohio by wagons, 
entering land in Columbiana county, and being one of the pioneers of that section. 
Indians were very numerous in those days, but he courageously faced the hardships 
and dangers inevitable with pioneer life, and there made his home until he was acci- 
dentally killed by being thrown from his horse. Charles Brown, the father of the 
Doctor, was a farmer throughout life, and died in Carroll county, Ohio, in 1833, 
beinc about forty-hve years of age at that time, but his widow survived him until 
1882, dying in St. Joseph county, Ind. She bore her husband six children, but only 
two are living at the present time: Dr. Jacob E., and Mrs. Mary Gantz, of Carroll- 
ton, Ohio. Three of the children died in 1892, within six months of each other. 
Dr. Jacob R. Brown was reared in Carrollton, Ohio, where he received his initiatory 
training, and, later, finished his knowledge of books at Athens. He resided on his 
father's farm until twenty-one years of age, but when about eighteen began the study 
of medicine, and followed school teaching in order to defray his expenses in some 
medical college. He built himself a small house, in which he lived all alone, and 
all his spare moments were devoted to hard study. After attending the Ohio Med- 
ical College, of Cincinnati, he had no funds with which to establish himself profes- 
sionally, and, in order to obtain means, accepted a position as clerk on an Ohio River 
steamboat, which position he filled for two years, and saved some money. He soon 
after located at Osnaburg, Ohio, and in 1850 came to St. Joseph county, Ind., and 
located right where he now lives, at which time he had but 25 cents in money. He 
formed the acquaintance of the late Col. L. M. Taylor, of South Bend, and a warm 
friendship was formed which only ended with the latter' s life. The Colonel sold 
Dr. Brown 100 acres of land and gave him his own time in which to pay for it. On 
this land was a small log house, in which the Doctor and his family lived until his 
means permitted better improvements. By industry and economy he soon built up 
a lucrative practice and was soon in fair circumstances. His practice extended in all 
directions about twenty miles from home, and he would often be gone two and three 
days at a time, attending to his professional duties, leaving his young wife to look 
after the place, which she often found to be quite a heavy responsibility. The Doc- 
tor is now the owner of 180 acres of nicely improved land, and can now enjoy the 
fruits of his early industry. He is endeavoring to give up the practice of his pro- 
fession, but his numerous old friends and patrons still insist in calling upon his serv- 
ices. On December 7, 1848, he was married to Miss Sarah A. Gorgas, a native of 
Mechanicsburg, Penn., whose people were of German origin, her great-grandfather 
having come from that country. Her parents were Jacob and Catherine (Ober) 
Gorgas, the former of whom was a silversmith and manufacturer of pianos. They 
first removed from Pennsylvania to Canton, Ohio, where the mother eventually died, 
the father's demise occurring in Chicago. Mrs. Brown was at one time a very fine 
musician, as was her father before her. Dr. Brown is a member of the G. A. R. 
(Auten Post, No. 8, of South Bend), and is a Knight Templar in the A. F. & A. M. 
He is a member of the St. Joseph County Medical Society, the Indiana State Med- 
ical Society, and the American Medical Association. He is now examining surgeon 
of the pension board of South Bend. For sixteen years the Sumption Prairie post- 



138 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

office was kept in his house. He is in every respect a self-made man, and every dol- 
lar that he now possesses was earned by himself, with the efficient help of his ami- 
able and intelligent wife. 

John W. Ellis, president of the Elkhart Paper Company. The gentleman 
whose name heads this sketch is endowed by nature with such gifts as characterize 
true manhood and progressive citizenship in all that the words imply, and is de- 
scended from ancestry that won honorable distinction in the American Revolution as 
well as in the War of 1812, manifesting their love for truth, justice and right and for 
their country by deeds of valor on many a bloodj- battlefield. His paternal giand- 
father. Jacob Ellis, who was born in New Hampshire, was a lineal descendant of 
the Ellis family that landed at Plymouth Eock. He was reared to manhood on a 
farm and was following that occupation when Great Britain was endeavoring to en- 
force her unjust laws, and when the call for troops came he gallantly responded and 
served throughout the entire struggle with the mother country, rising to the rank of 
lieutenant. After the war terminated he removed to Oneida county, N. Y., with 
his family, and was one of the first to settle in the vicinity of Utica. Here he resided 
until he paid the last debt of nature at the advanced age of ninety-four years. He 
was the father of two sons and two daughters: Jacob. Joel, Cynthia and Sarah. 
The eldest of these children, Jacob, was born in New Hampshire April 20, 1787, but 
was left without the loving care of a mother when he was very young, and when his 
father took up his abode in the Empire State, he also located there and there attained 
man's estate. He became interested in freight transportation on the lakes, by 
schooners, and found this quite a profitable source of revenue. On June 16, ISll, 
he was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Burch, who was born in Saratoga 
county, N. Y., December 28, 1792. being one of fifteen children born to Thomas and 
Nancy Burch. About one year after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Ellis they set- 
tled in Oswego county, N. Y., of which they were among the first settlers, and se- 
cured 112 acres of land of the Holland Purchase, and although the land was totally 
unimproved and heavily covered with timber, they settled thereon, erected a log 
cabin and began battling for an existence in the wilderness, their capital consisting 
of much energy and pluck aud a hand-made "chest,"' which they used as a table, and 
the contents of which consisted of their sole personal effects. Not long after mak- 
ing this settlement Mr. Ellis entered the service of his country to participate in the 
War of 1812 and was at Sackett's Harbor at the time the British endeavored to make 
a landing. Years after, or about 1850. Mr. Ellis received as compensation for his 
services a warrant for 160 acres of laud. He was a man of indomitable energy, was 
resourceful and progressive and developed a fine farm from the forest aud erected 
substantial buildings thereon. In Pulaski, the county seat, he built a large hotel, 
which he conducted for two years, but his early days of pioneer life had left its im- 
pressions upon him, and in the early part of 1831 he concluded that the far west had 
more attractions for him and offered better advantages and opportunities than the 
hemlock stumps and pine knots of Oswego county, and he boarded a schooner for 
Detroit, his objective point being Chicago, for he realized a portion of the possibili- 
ties of a country located at the head of navigation. Leaving Detroit, he started 
across the country on foot with his knapsack strapped to his back aud walked the 
entire distance to Elkhart — over 170 miles — and upon arriving at that place was 
persuaded to locate, which he did after due consideration, purchasing about a half 
section and entering a section of Government land adjoining what is now the city 
limits on the east of the town, which at that time was called Two Mile Plain. He 
then returned to New York and in October, 1831. brought his family thither and set- 
tled on the land he had previously jjurchased aud entered and which was destined 
to be his future home. He was very successful in all his undertakings and brought 
under cultivation over 500 acres of excellent and valuable farming land, and erected 
the first frame barn that was ever put up in Elkhart county, in the spring of 1832. 
During those early days an enormous business was done by boating on the river for 





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ilEMOIRS OF INDIAXA. 131 

the shipment and importation of merchandise and Mr. Ellis, being a live business 
man, erected a large warehouse at the confluence of the Elkhart and St. Joseph 
Rivers, and he also owned boats for the transportation of goods. He did much for 
the development and upbuilding of Elkhart, and while putting forth his efforts to 
bring about this desirable result he also increased his own wealth and at one time 
owned over 1,000 acres of land, besides other valuable business interests which were 
eventually divided among his children. In an early day, after stages began to 
thrive, Mr. Ellis built a tavern on his farm and for about eighteen years conducted 
this on his farm, it being the headquarters and stopping place for stages and the 
traveling public for some fifteen years. His wife bore him eight children as follows: 
Maria, Fannie, David (who died in infancy), Joel, David, John W., Sarah and Louisa. 
John W. and Fannie are the only feurviving members of this family, the latter being 
the wife of Edward Loomis, a resident of California. Jacob Ellis, the father of these 
children, was a member of the Masonic fraternity from the time he was a younc 
man until the day on which his death occurred, December 26, 1860, and he was 
also a life long member of the Congregational Church, as was his wife. In the 
early part of his manhood he afliliated with the Whig party but he afterward be- 
came a Kepublican, although he voted for Andrew Jackson on one occasion. His 
last years, which ended a useful and successful career, were spent retired from act- 
ive life and in comfort in the homes of his children. To illustrate the generous 
character of Mr. Ellis, the following is given: During the first years of his resi- 
dence in Elkhart county educational facilities were verj' meager and Mr. Ellis con- 
tributed the use of a building for a school room for the use of the rising generation. 
He was also first and foremost in contributing and assisting to establish religious 
advantages in the way of churches, although the denomination was not always of 
his own choice. His son, John W. Ellis, whose name heads this sketch, was bom 
in Oswego county, N. Y. , August 12, 1825, and therefore, was less than sis vears 
of age when his parents settled in Elkhart county, at which time the country' was 
extremely wild and the population mainly consisted of Indians. During his boy- 
hood days his playmates in many instances were the dark-skinned children of the 
forest, and as far as occupation went his father found a ready use for him on the 
home farm, and with that line of work he became thoroughly familiar. His educa- 
tion was necessarily limited, for his advantages were very few. but by close applica- 
tion he succeeded in mastering a great deal of useful information which he could not 
otherwise have obtained. When al)0ut twenty years of age his father placed him in 
chargeof the large warehouse on the banks of the St. Joseph River, and he found his 
time fully occupied, for at that time the entire business of the section came through 
river navigation and his father practically had control of all the storage and for- 
warding transacted here and did an enormous business. Although the position was a 
very responsible one, Mr. Ellis was gifted with natural executive ability and success- 
fully managed affairs for about four years, when an older brother took his place and 
Mr. Ellis turned his attention to merchandising, which calling occupied his attention 
until the spring of ISoO, when he went to the gold regions of California in search of 
a fortune. He made the trip across the plains fi-om where Omaha is now situated 
to Sacramento in fifty-six days, the quickest trip recorded of the season. Two vears 
later he returned east as far as Illinois and for four years was 'a merchant in that 
State, after which he returned to his former home in Elkhart and from that time 
until 1870 the peaceful calling of a farmer occupied the attention of Mr. Ellis, but 
he also continued to can-y on merchandising. Like his father before him he has de- 
voted his influence and his means to assist in improving and building up the citv, and 
no enterprise of any importance has been inaugurated to which he has not lent val- 
uable aid, either in the way of money or by influence and labor. He is one of the 
promoters and builders of the Excelsior Starch Company, and for tweutv vears was 
closely identified with the same, being secretary of the company a considerable por- 
tion of this time. It was an enterprise that employed from ten to twelve hands at 



132 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

first, but now gives employment to seventy-five or eighty., with a corresponding in- 
crease in business. He also assisted in establishing the Eagle Knitting Works, 
which was started in a modest way but now furnishes work for 400 people. He was 
president of this institution for many years, and was one of the projectors of the 
Electric Street Railway, being one of its board of managers and secretary of the 
company. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and has taken all the degrees 
up to that of Knight Templar, and he is an active member of the Congregational 
Church. Politically he has always been a Republican and from 1860 to 1872 he 
was assessor of the town and township and during the Civil war was enrolling 
commissioner and deputy collector of internal revenue. He was also one of the 
first aldermen after the organization of the city. On July 26, 1849, he was married 
in Lake county, 111., to Clarissa W. Green, who was born in Bristol, Vermont, Sep- 
tember 22, 1831, a daughter of Isaiah and Marj' (Gage) Green, who were born in 
the Granite State. Mr. Green died in 1864, but Mrs. Green survives him and re- 
sides with her son, Cullen W., in Elkhart. Mr. and Mrs. Ellis are the parents of 
five children: Mary C, Jay B., John F., James S. (who died at the age of twenty- 
two years) and Lulu B. Mr. Ellis owns a farm adjoining the city of Elkhart, 
which originally consisted of 185 acres of laud, and, besides, a large amount of real 
estate in different parts of Elkhart, as well as manufacturing interests. He has 
been eminently successful and through his success and generosity the city hasgained 
much. Although he is now retired from active business life, he still takes pleasure 
in assisting, almost daily, some of the many business enterprises he is connected 
with. His son. Jay B. Ellis, graduated from the Hahnemann Homoeopathic School 
of Physicians and Surgeons, of Chicago, and is engaged in the practice of his pro- 
fession at Ligonier, Ind. John F. Ellis graduated from the Homceopathic Medical 
College, of New York City, and is now practicing medicine at Eureka Springs, Ark. 

George I. Witter is one of the substantial residents of German township, St. 
Joseph Co., Ind., but in the township of Warren was bom, on April 16, 1863, to 
George and Sarah (Miller) Witter, and was there Isrought up on the home farm, 
becoming well versed in the minutiae of agricultural life. He resided on the old 
place until March 21. 1892, at which time he purchased his farm in German town- 
ship, consisting of 110 acres of fine farming laud and twenty acres of timber land 
in Warren township, for which he paid the sum of $10,000. and at once settled on 
the former tract. On this farm he has shown what a man of energy and intelligent 
views can accomplish and in every transaction in which he has been engaged he has 
shown excellent judgment, and as a consequence has been prospered in worldly 
matters. Agriculture has received much attention at his hands, for which branch 
of agriculture his farm is well adapted, and he has some of the best blooded cattle 
and hogs in the county and is considered an excellent judge of those animals as well 
as of good horseflesh. After he had come to the conclusion that it is not good for 
man to live alone, on March 27, 1885, he took a wife in the person of Miss Cora 
Ross, who was born in the city of Chicago, 111., August 10, 1867. a daughter of 
Capt. William R. and Juliette (Warner) Ross, and their union has resulted in the 
birth of two interesting children: Mabel, born February 22, 1887, and John L., born 
November 28, 1891. Mr. Witter is one of those young men of whom his county 
may well feel proud, for he is not only well supplied with this world's goods, but 
he is also deeply interested in everything tending to the good of his section and 
aids them by influence and purse. He has always been an enthusiastic Republican, 
in fact, is enthusiastic in everything that he undertakes, and, as a rule, everything 
in which he interests himself is pushed to a successful issue. In social circles he is 
liked and admired for the genuine kindness of his heart, and his well-meant efforts 
are appreciated, and among business men his intelligent and practical views and his 
strict integrity are recognized and valued. 

John Thornton. The older members of a community are doubly entitled to the 
respect and esteem of their neighbors when their lives have been replete with acts 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 133 

of kindness, and their whole career marked by integrity and uprightness. Among 
those who have fought the battle of life successfully, is now retired from active life 
and in the enjoyment of the fruits of his early labors may be mentioned John 
Thornton, who is an intelligent and progressive citizen of Elkhart. He is a product 
of Summit county, Ohio, where he first saw the light of day May 19, 1831, his 
parents, Henry and Sarah (Kreitzer) Thornton, having been born in Snyder county, 
Penn. , where they were reared and married. In the spring of 1830 Mr. and Mrs. 
Thornton emigrated to Ohio, and after a residence of twenty-seven years on a farm 
in Summit county, they came to Elkhart county, Ind. , and in Section 32, Cleveland 
t >wnship, Mr. Thornton purchased 160 acres of land on which he made his home 
until he paid the last debt of nature on March 31, ISSO. He was an active member 
of the Evangelical Church, in which he was steward for several years, and being 
active and enterprising and a worthy citizen, his death was deeply regretted by the 
community at large. He was a successful tiller of the soil and at the time of his 
death left an estate valued at about §15,000. His widow survived him until April, 
1886, her death occurring at the home of her daughter, Luvina Kuntz. She was a 
daughter of John Kreitzer, a native of Germany, who came to America with his 
parents when a child, and at the time of his death, which occurred when his 
daughter Sarah was about fifteen years of age, he was a well-to-do farmer of Penn- 
sylvania. To Mr. and Mrs. Thornton a family of thirteen children were born: Elias; 
Hannah; Leah, who died at the age of five years; John; Noah, who died in infancy; 
William; Mariah; Peter, who died March 9, 1892; Solomon; Samuel; George; La- 
vina, and Louisa, who died at the age of eight years. Mr. and Mrs. Thornton were 
persevering and industrious and everything that they accumulated was by dint of 
hard work and energy, for their married career was commenced in poor circum- 
stances. They were very ardent supporters of the cause of temperance, were earn- 
est workers in the church and their children and grandchildren have inherited the 
same excellent qualities and are living examples of their respected ancestors. The 
paternal grandfather, Henry Thornton, was a soldier of the Revolutionary war. 
John Thornton, whose name heads this sketch, attended the common schools in the 
vicinity of his home in his youth, and discharged the numerous duties that can al- 
ways be found for a boy on a farm, during which time he acquired a practical in- 
sight into the details of agriculture. On February 3, 1852, he was married in his 
native county to Miss Susannah Weyrick, who was born in Summit county, Ohio, 
March 13, 1828, a daughter of David and Elizabeth (Walter) Weyrick, who were 
born, reared and married in Snyder county, Penn., and removed to Summit county, 
Ohio, about the year 1825, where they lived until their respective deaths. After 
the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Thornton they made Ohio their home for one year, 
then settled in Osolo township, Elkhart Co., Ind., where Mr. Thornton first pur- 
chased a farm of eighty acres, but sold this place three years later and purchased 
120 acres in Cleveland township, which he still owns. Not only has he been suc- 
cessful as a tiller of the soil, but he has devoted considerable attention to the 
various enterprises inaugurated in the county, and so far as it lay in his power has 
assisted in their promotion and establishment. He has been a director of the Home 
Fire Insurance Company of Elkhart county for eleven years, but resigned his posi- 
tion about four years since, and in the fall of 1889 retired from active business pur- 
suits and took up his residence in Elkhart, where he purchased a comfortable home 
in which he and his wife are living in comfort and quiet. After Mr. Thornton set- 
tled in Cleveland township, he purchased sixty acres of land which increased his 
farm to 180 acres, the income from which is amply sufficient to supply all his needs. 
His farm is occupied by tenants, but is kept in good farming condition, and the 
building and fences in excellent repair by Mr. Thornton, who is an intelligent man 
of affairs and decidedly progressive in his views. He and his wife are active mem- 
bers of the Evangelical Church and have reared their children in that faith, the 
names of the latter being as follows : George W. , William H. , Levi B. , Leah C. , 



134 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPIIICAL 

Sarah E., Emanuel W. aad Amelia, all of whom are living and have homes of their 
own. Mr. Thornton has always voted the Republican ticket, although in local 
affairs he is not a partisan, and being an enterprising citizen, has done much to 
further the best interests of the city of Elkhart, as well as the county. As an illus- 
tration he was one of the promoters and original stockholders of the electric street 
railway, his original stock amounting to |'2,000, but he has since taken $1,500 more, 
although it has never been a paying investment, only live of the first stockholders 
retaining an interest in the same at the present time. In addition to his farm he 
also owns other property in Cleveland township and enough land in St. Joseph 
county to amount to 242 acres, which he disposed of at different times. He owns 
six lots in Elkhart, besides his residence lot, and has erected two houses on some of 
his property. He was one of the first stockholders in the Fair Association, an en- 
terprise of considerable magnitude lately established. 

John Beyree is one of those strictly honorable and upright German citizens for 
which Indiana and especially St. Joseph county has become well known, and pos- 
sesses all the characteristics for which those of his nativity have become well known — 
unbounded energy, sterling honesty and much public spirit. He was born in Ger- 
many November 22, 1850, to Jacob and Barbara (Greiner) Beyrer, but at the age of 
six months was brought to America by his parents, who settled in Berrien county, 
Mich., on a farm. On this place John grew up to sturdy manhood and in the public 
schools in the vicinity of his rural home he received a practical education. He 
remained at home and assisted his father until he was twenty-six years old, when 
he purchased a thirty-acre tract of land in German township, two and one-half 
miles northwest of South Bend, where he still resides. He i.s a shrewd man of busi- 
ness, has always been very successful in his undertakings and is quite an extensive 
and prosperous real-estate dealer in South Bend. For eight years after locating in 
German township he carried on an extensive dairy business, disposing of 300 quarts 
of milk per day in South Bend, but after retiring from that business he engaged in 
contract work and the sale of gravel from immense deposits extending over forty 
acres of land and of a depth of ten feet, which comprised a portion of his land. For 
five years he was very busy in supplying gravel for roofing for the Ford Roofing 
Company, of Chicago, and has graveled twenty-one acres of roofing for the Oliver 
Chilled Plow Works and nearly as much more for the Studebaker Bros. Manu- 
facturing Company, which is a fair illustration of the magnitude of the business he 
carries on. He probably understands the business of roofing, especially of the 
South Bend manufactories and business blocks, than any man in the county. In 
fact, he is an all-around, wide-awake and successful man of business and is one of 
the most useful citizens of which the county can boast. October 11, 1877, he was 
united in marriage to Miss Flora E. Miller, who was born in Warren township, 
September 25, 1856, a daughter of James R. and Amanda E. (Ritter) Miller, and 
she has presented him with four children: J. Lloyd, born August 11, 1878; James 
R., born December 16, 1881; Ada, born June 10, 1886, and Mary L., born Decem- 
ber — , 1890. Mr. Brej'er is a member of that worthy society, the I. O. O. F., and 
is a member in good standing of the Royal Arcanum. Mrs. Breyer is a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican, on which ticket 
he was a candidate in 1890 for county commissioner, although he was defeated not- 
withstanding the fact that he ran ahead of his ticket. 

Jacob D. Beyrer. This gentleman, who resides in German township, owns a 
fine farm, which attests by its value and productiveness the excellent qualities of 
thoroughness and system which mark the owner. He was born in Wurtemburg, 
Germany, on January 4, 1806. and on a farm in his native country he was reared, 
his youthful days being spent in assisting his father in the extensive vineyard owned 
by the latter. He was married in Germany about the year 1832 to Barbara Greiner, 
a native of the old country, and in 1851 thej' came to America, and made a settle- 
ment in Berrien county, Mich., on a farm near the Indiana State line, where the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 135 

father is still residing at the advanced age of eighty- seven years. He has been 
prosperous and successful, for he was a hard worker during his earlier years, and in 
time added forty acres to his first purchase of eighty acres. This land he improved 
and cleared by his own efforts and made of it a valuable and productive farm. 
During the early days of his residence there he bought an old style lynch-pin wagon 
from the Studebaker Bros, which Mr. Beyrer assisted in making. The Studebakers 
at that time had a small blacksmith shop and wagon factory on the site of the pres- 
ent postoffice building in South Bend. Mr. Beyrer, in later years, had quite an 
extensive vineyard, raised considerable fruit of all kinds, and as a tiller of the soil 
was intelligent and practical. At the present time he is making his home with his 
children, his wife having died May '28, 1883. They became the parents of nine 
children: Jacob, Dora, John (deceased), William, Christina. Caroline, John G., 
Mary, and Amanda, who died in Germany. Before Mr. Beyrer's removal to Amer- 
ica he did military duty for six years in his native land, according to the law of 
that country, and there also acted in the capacity of sheriff for eight years. Will- 
iam Beyrer, his son, was born in Germany, August 19, 1839, and in 1851 came to 
America with his parents, and for a few months attended the district schools, but as 
the family was poor and striving to make a home in America, William was obliged 
to remain on the farm the most of the time and assist in clearing and developing 
the same. He also worked out by the month, and one season of nine months earned 
§130, of which he saved §120 and gave to his father to assist in the improvement of 
the homestead. He was married on August 4, I860, to Miss Ellen Shetterly, who 
was born June 9, 1841, in Suyder County, Penn., her father and mother being 
George and Eliza (Keeley) Shetterly. Two years after the marriage of Mr. and 
Mrs. Beyrer they settled on a farm in German Township, and in 1SS2 purchased 
100 acres of land, on which thej' resided for several years, having disposed of their 
other propert}'. In March, 1888, the residence with all the household effects, includ- 
ing over §400 in monej', was destroyed by tire. It was early in the morning and 
Mrs. Beyrer and children barely escaped in time from the burning building, being 
obliged to walk in their bare feet and thinly clad over the frozen ground to the 
neighbors. This was a severe blow to Mr. Beyrer, as his family was left almost 
destitute for a time, having lost all their clothing and were without ready money. 
Kind and generous neighbors immediately came to their relief and supplied them 
bountifully with all such necessaries, a thoughtfulness and unselfishness which the 
family will always remember. Mr. Beyrer was trustee of the township at the time, 
and all the books, etc., were also destroyed. The indomitable will and energy, 
characteristic of the man, asserted itself, and he at once set to work with renewed 
vigor to retrieve his lost fortunes, and the manner in which he has succeeded is 
illustrated bj' the handsome residence which now adorns the site of the old one, and 
the comfortable appearance and prosperity of the place on all sides. Mr. and Mrs. 
Beyrer are the parents of five children: Charles, Mary, Ida (deceased), Hattie, 
Lillie. In the fall of 1892 Mr. Beyrer sold the farm in German township for §100 
per acre, purchasing property in Soiith Bend, whither the family moved in order to 
give their children better educational facilities. During his residence in the coiin- 
try he was trustee of German township for four years, and filled this office with 
ability and credit to himself. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, is a Repub- 
lican politically, but in local affairs is not a partisan. 

Capt. Orville T. Chamberl.un, attorney at law, resident at Elkhart, Ind., is 
one of that multitude which has achieved no great distinction or renown, but which, 
nevertheless, constitutes the bone, sinew and brain of the commonwealth. He was 
born at Leesburg, Kosciusko Co., Ind., September 1, 1841, and when two 
years old was brought to Elkhart by his parents. Dr. Joseph W. and Caroline 
(Tryou) Chamberlain. He was here reared to man's estate and has always made 
Elkhart his home. In his youth he attended the local schools, and besides standing 
high in his classes, acquired considerable skill and reputation in amateur theatrical 



136 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

entertainments conducted by the Omega Society. He clerked in his father's drug 
store, worked at the printer's trade and then taught three successive winter terms of 
school at the Bunker Hill school house two miles south of Elkhart. In 1860 he be- 
came a student at Notre Dame University, and was graduated from the commercial 
departuient as Master of Accounts. He did not complete the higher courses of 
study, which he had begun, because of his enlistment in the army, but in 1868, as a 
recognition of his high standing and diligence as a scholar, the faculty of the uni- 
versity bestowed upon him the honorary degree of Master of Arts. August 6, 1862, 
he became a private iu Company G, Seventy-fourth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer 
Infantry: was shortly afterward made orderly sergeaut, aud afterward successively 
promoted second lieutenant, first lieutenant and captain of his company. On the 
field at Chickamauga he was appointed acting adjutant of the regiment, which posi- 
tion, together with those of comjaauy commander and judge advocate of court 
martial of the division, he held most of the time during the remainder of the war, 
personally, laboriously aud ably discharging the duties incident to all those posi- 
tions. He participated in the Crab Orchard, Nashville, TuUahoma, Chattanooga, 
and Atlanta campaigns, in Sherman's march to the sea, the march through the 
Carolinas and iu the Grand Review in AVashington at the close of the war. In the 
battle of Jonesboro, which Gen. George H. Thomas said ' ' struck the finishing blow 
in the Atlanta campaign, " he assisted in the command of his regiment and led the 
charge and bayonet fighting which resulted in the capture of the enemy's battery, and 
earth-works. For his part in this contest Col. Morgan, the regimental commander, 
and Col. Este, brigade commander, recommended him for appointment in the 
regular army. Gen. Sherman made an order allowing Capt. Chamberlain to retain 
the side arms of a guerrilla officer whom he had personally captured, and also 
recommended him for such appointment. He was repeateclly tendered appoint- 
ments such as brigade inspector, provost marshal, etc., but believing he could be 
more useful where he was, he sacrificed the benefits personal to himself which he 
would have gained by acceptance, and remained with his comrades until he was 
mustered out with his command at the close of the war. Shortly after his return 
to civil life, the President tendered him a commission as first lieutenant in the regular 
army. On the day the commission was received his father died, aud because of this 
event he declined the commission in order that he might care for the stricken family. 
Engaging in the study of law he was, in time, admitted to the bar and has since 
actively prosecuted his profession. As an attorney he is noted for his care and in- 
dustry. His fidelity to the interests of his clients and the integritj' and sagacity 
shown in the management of his clients' interests, have enabled him to occupy a useful 
position in his profession. In 1874 he made an efforttobenominatedascandidatefor 
clerk of the circuit court, but was defeated. With that exception he has never in any man- 
ner sought any office or vote for himself. He has served as town clerk, as district 
attorney and as city attorney for several terms, which offices he filled with ability 
and honor. He has manifested a lively interest in public affairs and improvements, 
having been a projector in several business enterprises, and is a director in the 
Opera House Company aud president of the Jones & Hill Mauufacturing Company. 
Miss Helen M. Mead became his wife September 1, 1869, and one daughter, Edith, 
has blessed their union. Captain Chamberlain is a man of fair ability, without any 
pretense to anything further. He has improved his fair but limited opportunities 
reasonably well, and while he has reached no particular distinction, he has attained 
reasonable success in most of his undertakings, and is a prominent and useful man 
in the community in which he resides. He belongs to the Grand Army of the Re- 
public and Loyal Legion. 

William Miller was born in Franklin county. Va., April 1, 1809. \Yhen a 
year and a half old, he came with his parents, to Union county, Ind. At the age of 
twenty-four years he was married to Miss Mary Miller, of Union county, daughter 
of Col. John Miller, also a Virginian, and an officer in the War of 1812. In 1833 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 137 

"William Miller removed to this, St. Joseph, county, and settled upon a tract of fer- 
tile land on the west side of Portage Prairie, in what is now German township. 
Some of the laud he bought from the general Government, and a part of it from an 
Indian. Here he established his home, and developed one of the finest farms 
in the State. Mr. Miller was a practical and successful farmer, and did much to 
advance the agricultural interests of the county. His farm, while considered one 
of the most beautiful aud productive, was noted for its fine prairie fields, valu- 
able oak groves, large orchards, the best breeds of stock of all kinds, and the most 
improved agricultural implements. He was the purchaser of the first reaping and 
mowing machine used in the county. In 1844 he was elected to the Legislature, 
and was regarded as so valuable a member that he was returned by his constituents 
for two successive terms. He was very active in the Legislature in the interest of 
the benevolent institutions of the State, and the asylums for the deaf and dumb, 
the blind and insane, are largely indebted to his persevering and able efforts in their 
behalf. In 1858 Mr. Miller, desiring to retire from the arduous duties of active 
farm life, and to afford his younger children better educational advantages, removed 
from his farm to South Bend, and purchased the then new and handsome residence 
on La Fayette street, where he and his estimable wife spent the remainder of their 
lives. Mr. Miller was for many years a member of the city council, and took an 
active interest in city affairs. Appreciating the benefits of varied manufacturing 
industries in building up and maintaining a city, and adding to the wealth and 
growth of the community, he labored zealously in that direction, and was instru- 
mental in inducing capitalists to come to South Bend to engage in business, and in lend- 
ing aid to those who were struggling to establish themselves upon a more solid basis, 
and it is true that some of the promoters and wealthy owners of the mammoth man- 
ufaoting establishments that are the pride of South Bend to-day, are deeply indebted 
to Mr. Miller for his encouragement and financial assistance. Mr. Miller was a man 
of tine presence, his personal appearance commanding respect everywhere. He was 
above six feet in height, of symmetrical build, with a strong, yet kindlj' face, hand- 
somely set off by a wealth of wavy hair and iron-grey beard, that attracted the 
attention of the artist; truly an ideal of noble manhood. In politics he was an 
uncompromising Whig, and at the birth of the Republican party, he promptly allied 
himself with that party, and continued an earnest advocate of its principles through- 
out his life. He was also an enthusiastic advocate of Odd Fellowship, and was a 
charter member of the first lodge organized in the county. He died in his home on 
May 2, 1879, after a long and severe illness, attended by his devoted wife and chil- 
dren, and his death was sincerely regretted by a large circle of warm friends and 
old acquaintances. Mrs. Miller died in the same homestead on September 29, 1885, 
in her seventy-fifth year. She was preeminently a type of our pioneer women, 
and while possessing the most womanly instincts, and a most loving and lovable dis- 
position, and untiring in her devotion to her husband and children, she had the 
splendid strength of character which was so essential to the successful enjoyment of 
life on the frontier, as a wife and true helpmate to a sturdy pioneer husband. She 
died "in the twinkling of an eye" in the fullness of her years, mourned by her 
sorrowing children, and Iw a host of kind friends and neighbors who knew her best. 
Mr. and Mrs. Miller had born to them nine children, sis of whom survived them; 
five sons and one daughter. 

John F. Miller, the eldest, was born in Union county, Ind. , November 21, 1831, 
and came to St. Joseph county with his parents, at the age of two years; he remained 
on the farm till his eighteenth year, when he attended school in South Bend, and 
later in Chicago, and afterward graduated at the New York State Law School at 
Balston Spa, in 1852. Upon completing his studies he returned to South Bend aud 
became associated in the practice of law with Norman Eddy, ex-member of Con- 
gress. After about three years he went to California and engaged in the practice of 
his chosen profession, continuing till his return, three years later, to South Bend, 



138 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPIIICAL 

where he resumed practice, and was married to Miss Mary Chess, a native of Penn- 
sylvania. In 1860 he was elected a member of the State Senate, which position he 
resigned at the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, to accept a commission 
from Gov. Morton to raise the Twenty-ninth Regimentof Indiana Volunteers. Upon 
his arrival in Kentucky with his regiment, he was placed in command of a brigade, 
serving under Gens. Sherman, Buell, Rosecraus and Thomas, and was promoted to 
brigadier general. Gen. Miller led the famous charge across Stone River, and 
though severely wounded in the neck by a minie rifle ball, he was in the three days' 
light, refusing to go to the rear against the earnest advice of his surgeon. At the 
skirmish at Liberty Gap, Tenn., he lost an eye by a bullet from a sharpshooter, 
while advancing at the head of his command. This wound was very dangerous and 
came near proving fatal. As soon as he was suliiciently recovered, he returned to 
his command, though he carried the rebel bullet in his head for twelve years, when 
it became necessary to remove it to save his life. In the battle of Nashville he com- 
manded the left division of 8,000 men, and was brevetted major general for conspic- 
uous bravery. The record of Gen. Miller was that of a soldier who knew no fear, 
and never swerved from the line of strict duty, and as a comrade has said of him: 
"His bearing in battle was sublime; he had all the dash of a Sheridan, and the 
coolness of a Grant, and no commander ever inspired his men to a greater degree." 
Brave as a lion, yet kind and considerate of the welfare of his men, he was their 
idol, and wherever he led they were eager to follow. At the close of the war he 
accepted the collectorship of the port of San Francisco, tendered by President John- 
son. After acceptably filling the position four years, he resigned to organize the 
Alaska Commercial Company, getting from Congress the exclusive grant of the 
Alaskan seal fisheries for a period of twenty years. The business of the company, 
of which he was president, becoming very profitable, Gen. Miller amassed consider- 
able wealth. His ability as a lawyer was recognized throughout the Pacific Coast, 
and he was appointed president of a commission to investigate the Chinese question 
and to devise a method to ameliorate the condition of the people of California in 
that regard. The report submitted as chairman of that commission was favorably 
received, and was heartily endorsed by many of the ablest jurists in the country, 
and the legislation therein suggested was afterward adopted. He was elected to 
the United States Senate in 1880, and wastheauthor of the famousChinese Exclusion 
Act, which became a much-needed law of the land. Senator Miller won the admir- 
ation and gratitude of the people of California, and enjoyed an immense popularity 
among his constituents. He was chosen chairman of the Committee on Foreign 
Relations, a distinction rarely accorded to a senator so young, and discharged the 
delicate duties of the position with credit to himself and honor to his country. He 
was greatly esteemed and respected by his associates in Congress, and though a stanch 
and unflinching Republican, he was kind and considerate in dealing with political 
opponents, and his amiable disposition, unobtrusive manners, his ability and fairness, 
won him many warm and distinguished friends. He died during his senatorial term, 
at his home in Washington, after a prolonged illness, leaving a wife and one daughter. 
His funeral services in Washington were held in the Senate chamber, attended by 
the President, Supreme Justices, members of the Senate and foreign representatives. 
His remains were escorted to California bj- special Government train, and deposited 
in his tomb by the side of his beloved son, whose death he had never ceased to 
mourn. Thus at the early age of fifty-five years, John F. Miller, patriot, soldier, 
statesman, in the zenith of his career, passed away, full of honors, followed by 
deep regret at his untimely taking off, mourned by his sorrowing family, and by 
thousands of admiring friends. His widow survived him until December 6, 1890, 
when she died in Washington City, D. C. , and was buried by the side of her dis- 
tinguished husband. She was a devoted wife and mother, and always shared in the 
troubles and triumphs of her husband. The daughter, now the wife of Lieut. Rich- 
ardson Clover, of the United States navy, resides in Washington with her husband and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 139 

only daughter, Maiy Eudora Clover, who was born at No. 1301 Conn avenue, Wash- 
ington, D. C, November 15, 1890. Mrs. Clover inherited many of her father's traits 
of character, and moving in the highest circles of society, and mingling with the 
most noted people gathered at the national capital from her early girlhood, and being 
naturally gifted and liberally educated at home and abroad, she attracts wide and 
favorable attention everywhere, and counts among her warmest friends many dis- 
tinguished people. 

David, the second son, died at the age of six years. 

Isaac Newton, the third son, was born at the home farm in German township, 
November, 3, 1835. He was a sturdy farmer boy, and spent his youth upon the 
old farm, and remained there up to his majority, except to attend school in winter 
in South Bend, and at Wabash College. He has followed the occupation of farmer 
for nearly the whole of his subsequent life. He was married to Miss Martha E. 
Ritter, March 25, 1858, and resided upon the home farm for several years, when he 
removed to South Bend to engage in the milling business until the spring of 1866. 
He bought a farm in Olive township. St. Joseph county. , near the village of New 
Carlisle, where he now lives. Mr. Miller is one of the most enterprising and success- 
ful farmers in the county, and owns one of the largest and finest farms in his local- 
ity, thoroughly equipped with modern farming utensils, and stocked with the best 
breeds of all kinds of farm stock. Being an unswerving Republican, Mr. Miller 
has taken an active interest in local politics, and was called upon, in 1882, and again 
in 1884, to run on the Republican ticket for representative, and when the opposi- 
tion was in an overwhelming majority in the joint district and county, and though 
narrow!}' defeated, he had the satisfaction of greatly reducing the majorities of the 
successful candidates upon both occasions. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have an interest- 
ing family of five children: The eldest, Eldon N., was born August 31, 1860, and is, 
like his father, a live, progressive farmer, and resides upon his farm in La Porte 
county, near New Carlisle. He was married on March 21, 1883, to Miss Lulu 
Dickey, of New Carlisle, and they have five bright little girls: Marv E. , born June 
18, 1884; Ann L., March 13, 1887; Edith, July 11, 1890; Eva, 'july 11, 1890, 
and Winnona, born Sei^tember 17, 1892. John F., the second son of Mr. and Mrs. 
I. Newton Miller, was born June 9, 1862, and spent the early years of his life with 
his parents upon the home farm, till, in early manhood he entered the West Point 
Military Academy, where he was disciplined for several years, resigning to enter the 
law department of the Ann Arbor University, and later graduating from the Law col- 
lege at Valparaiso, Ind. Shortly afterward he left hislndiana home to seek a broader 
and brighter field for the practice of his chosen ])rofession, and in June, 1887, he 
located in Seattle, Washington Ter. , where, after a residence of but little more than 
a year, he was elected police judge in November, 1888, and filled the position most 
acceptably for two years, when the office was vacated hy the change from a Terri- 
torial to a State government. In November, 1890, Mr. Miller was elected district 
prosecuting attorney in Seattle, which position he now fills with signal ability, and 
his popularity being such that he is renominated upon the first ballot for reflec- 
tion. Though young in years and citizenship in the city of his adoption, he is 
firmly established professionally and socially, and enjoys the respect and confidence 
of the entire community. On February 12, 1889, he was married to Miss Mary E. 
Stewart, of Randolph, 111. They have a promising little daughter, Leah. Mr. 
Miller has built an elegant residence in Seattle for a permanent home. The younger 
children of I. Newton Miller and wife, are Mary E., born April 6, 1877; William 
R., boru March 26, 1880, and Isaac Nelson, born December 27, 1881. 

The next son in the order of ages, of William and Mary Miller, is William H. , 
who was boru at the old homestead in German township, on August 21, 1838. As 
with his elder brothers, his boyhood was spent upon the farm engaged in the ardu- 
ous labors incident to farm life of that period, which was before the introduction of 
many of the labor-saving inventions of to-day. Arriving at the age of manhood, 



140 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

he attended school in South Bend, and later at Wabash College, and following that, 
at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. After leaving school he spent some time read- 
ing law in the office of Miller & George, when the breaking out of the war of the 
Rebellion changed his intended course, and after spending one summer in Ten- 
nessee, with his brother, Gen. Miller, who was then in command of the post of Nash- 
ville, he returned to South Bend and engaged in the manufacture of sash, doors and 
blinds and building material, which business he successfully prosecuted for a period 
of seven years. He was married to Miss Mattie Crockett, December 9, 1864. 
In the spring of 1875, he became interested in the purchase of some landed 
property in Fond du Lac, Wis., and removed there to manage the interests, and 
remained three years engaged in farming, then removed to St. Louis, becoming in- 
terested in the business of dealing in coal and street sprinkling, where he remained 
till the fall of 1880, when he returned to South Bend, and engaged in the manu- 
facture and sale of sprinkling wagons, having made a number of valuable improve- 
ments in street sprinklers, upon which invention he secured letters patent from the 
Government. He followed this business successfully alone, till the season of 1890, 
when its growing demands resulted in the organization of the Miller-Knoblock Wagon 
Company, and the building of a plant to manufacture the Miller Patent Sprinklers 
and heavy fifth-wheel vehicles, in which he is one of the heaviest stockholders, and 
tills the positions of treasurer and superintendent. Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Miller 
have had three children born to them: Edwin Morton, was born May 10, 1870, and 
died August 29, same year; Mae MiUer, was born in South Bend, September 17, 
1872; she attended school at St. Joseph's Academy, South Bend, and later at Living- 
ston Park Seminary, Rochester, N. Y. ; Gertrude, was born in St. Louis, March 31, 
1879, she is a faithful student in Washington School, South Bend. 

Martha E., the only surviving daughter, was born December 6, 1841. In her 
girlhood she attended school at the La Porte, lud. , Seminary, and later, at the Oxford 
Young Ladies' Institute, Oxford, Ohio. She was married to Moses E. Butterworth, 
of La Porte, Ind., February 20, 1866, and has resided in La Porte, and at Kingsbury, 
La Porte county, ever since, except with a few years' residence in South Bend. Mrs. 
Butterworth inherited, to a marked degree, the heroic traits of her parents, and 
possesses an intellectual strength of character and wealth of true womanly senti- 
ment which makes her presence felt throughout her large circle of friends. Mr. and 
Mrs. Butterworth have had three sons born to them: William M. , was born March 
11, 1867. His early boyhood was passed upon the Kingsbury farm. At a suitable 
age he entered Purdue University, and after finishing his studies there, he returned to 
La Porte, and enlisted in the ranks of journalism, and soon proved himself to be a 
ready and accomplished narrator of current events, and his sallies of wit and poetic 
sarcasm, won for him an enviable i-eputation among his comrades. He is now a 
resident of Chicago, engaged in the real estate business, and in the study of law. 
He was married to Miss Juliet Fox, of Titusville, Penn., on May 3, 1892. Joseph 
B., was born December 22, 1868, and died November 27, 1878. Henry T. , was 
born November 20, 1872, and after leaving school attended the La Porte Horological 
School, and acquired the watchmaker's trade, in which profession he has become 
well skilled. He is also giving much attention to vocal music, possessing a rich bari- 
tone voice of wonderful power and compass. 

Henry Clay, was born May 20, 1844. Like his older brothers, his earlier boy- 
hood was spent upon the old Portage prairie farm, and removing to South Bend 
with his parents, be attended school in winter and followed agricultural pursuits in 
summer. He attended the Northern Indiana College, and later, Ann Arbor Univer- 
sity. In 1867 he went to California, where he still lives. For some time after his 
arrival in San Francisco, he acted as private secretary to his brother. Gen. John F. 
Miller, then collector of the port. Subsequently he was appointed cashier of cus- 
toms, and held this important position until the change of administration, when he 
tendered his resignation, and accepted the secretaryship of a mining association in 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 141 

San Francisco, until Mr. Phelps was appointed collector, when he was again called 
to the office of cashier, and held the position till promoted to his present highly 
important office, auditor of customs, which he assumed some two years ago. Mr. 
Miller's popularity arises from the warm interest and kindly sympathy he shows 
toward others. He is a man of much depth of feeling, and very considerate to sub- 
ordinates, and in general circles, social, business, or political, his courtesy and can- 
dor give him the esteem and respect of those he meets. His long experience in the 
routine of custom house business, his unquestioned integrity and fine business abil- 
ity especially qualify him for the important position he fills. He was married to 
Miss Magdalena Rosetta Blakeman, a native of California, on October 5, 1874, and 
two promising children bless their union: the eldest Madaline Rose Miller, was 
born in California on May 11, 1877, and Henry Clay, Jr., March 2, 1879. Mr. 
Miller and family live in a pretty Swiss cottage on the heights in the beautiful 
suburb of San Francisco, Sausalito. 

The seventh child of William and Mary Miller, was named Mary Ellen, who 
died in infancy. 

The eighth, Horace Greeley, was born at the old farm homestead, November 14, 
1849. His early life, like those of his brothers, was passed at home, until after his 
parents removed to South Bend, where he attended the city schools for a number of 
years, and later, entered college at Monmouth, 111., where he met Miss Rachel 
Cochran, to whom he was married shortly after finishing school, on November 14, 
1870. His first business venture was in the grocery business, in partnership with 
the late J. G. Bartlett, in the oldest and best known grocery house in South Bend. 
After several years of successful business, the firm changed to Miller & Campbell, 
Mr. Campbell purchasing the interest of Mr. Bartlett. The successors continued 
the business for a number of years, receiving a generous patronage, which was well 
earned by the integrity and ability of the members of the firm. When the firm 
quit business in , Mr. Miller engaged in the manufacture of lumber for a num- 

ber of years, and later filled the position of cashier in the large dry goods house of 
George Wyman & Co. In 1878 he resigned this position, and engaged in the coal 
and sprinkling business with his brother, W. H. , in St. Louis, Mo. Returning to 
South Bend in 1880, he subsequently took a position as traveling salesman and 
oflice-man with the Studebaker Bros. Manufacturing Company, which he filled 
acceptably till the spring of 1891, when he resigned and became associated with, and 
astoekholder in the Miller-Knoblock Wagon Company, of South Bend, and now holds 
the position of vice-president and traveling representative with this company. 

Edwin Irving, the ninth child of William and Mary Miller, died in infancy. 

William A. Bdtler is an Indianian by birth and bringing up, and has inculcated 
in him the sterling principles of the better class of citizens of the Hoosier State. 
He was born in July, 1831, on the old homestead, and as soon as old enough began 
pursuing the paths of learning in the pioneer log schoolhouse of olden days. His 
grandfather was a blacksmith and a citizen of Culpepper county, Va. , of English 
descent, and was accidentally killed while a resident of Virginia. He was the father 
of the following children: Zaccheus, Alsea, Nancy, Joshua, David, Elizabeth, 
George, Fannie and Eliza. Zaccheus, the eldest of this family, was born in Cul- 
pepper county August 19, 1795, received a common-school education and learned the 
blacksmith's trade of his father. When he was twenty-one years of age his father 
was killed, and as he was the eldest of the family the burden of its support fell 
upon his shoulders, but by energetically wielding the hammer in his blacksmith 
shop, he managed to keep the wolf from the door. On February 28, 1820, he 
was married in Virginia to Sarah, daughter of Thomas Scalock, and eight children 
eventually came to bless their home: Burwell J.; Owen T., who died at the age of 
twenty years; Tillman P.; Ira A. ; William A.; Francis B. ; Julia E. and Annie C. 
In 1822 Mr. Butler removed to Ross county, Ohio, and afterworking at his trade in 
Chillicothe for eight years he took up his residence in Fort Wayne, Ind. , but one 



143 PICTORIAL AJSfD BIOGRAPHICAL 

year later located in Benton township, of Elkhart county. He settled on a woodland 
farm ou the banks of the Elkhart Eiver, and here the rest of his days were spent in 
tilling the soil and working at his trade, his shop being the tirst one in his section 
of the country. People came to him with work from Elkhart Prairie and other parts 
of the county, and by this means he earned the money with which to purchase 
eighty acres of land, and in order to enter it he walked to Fort Wayne, a distance 
of forty-five miles, in one day and returned home the next. Through good manage- 
ment he, in time, became the owner of 560 acres, most of which he entered by eighty 
acres and each time made the trip to and from Fort Wayne on foot. He was a man 
of great industry and assisted by his faithful wife, who was a woman of great 
sagacity and prudence and an excellent manager, although she was of small stature 
and possessed a not over strong constitution. Mr. Butler was a member of the 
Baptist Church, and was a Democrat politically until the formation of the EejDub- 
lican party, after which he gave his sujiport to that party. He gave eighty acres of 
land, or its equivalent, to each of his children, and was in every respect a kind and 
considerate father and husband. He was a useful pioneer settler and helped lay 
the foundation of the magnificent commonwealth of Indiana, by many years of 
unremitting toil, perseverence and push. He lived to be eighty-five years old, 
dj'ing in 1880. When the country was new he was a great hunter, and many deer 
and wolves fell victims to his skill as a marksman. In 1835 he assisted in killing a 
bear that was caught stealing a hog from Mr. Elsea, and was tracked and killed in a 
neighboring swamp by Mr. Butler, his eldest son and Mr. Elsea. His son, William 
A., was reared a farmer, a' d grew up in the rough school of pioneer life. On 
October 19, 1869. he was married to Mary B. Cowan, a daughter of William and 
Narcissa (Jones) Cowan. [See sketch of the Cowan family for a more extended notice.] 
After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Butler settled on land belonging to the old Butler 
estate, consisting of eighty acres. By industry and thrift and estimating the land 
which his wife inherited, consisting of 167 acres, he has now in his possession 616 
acres upon which he has made excellent improvements, erecting a handsome brick 
residence in 1882 which is tastefully furnished, and bears evidences of culture and 
refinement. Mr. and Mrs. Butler "are the parents of three children: Wina S., 
W illiam Burton and Eddie L. These children are receiving good educations and 
interesting reading matter and wholesome books are an important featrue of the 
famil}- life. Mr. Butler is a Eepublican, and although he is eminently capable of 
filling any office within the gift of the county, he much prefers the quiet, unostenta- 
tious life he is leading. His wife was formerly a member of the United Presbyterian 
Church. 

William Cowan, Se. The ancient Scotch Highland clan of Colquhon (Cahoon) 
were stanch Catholics until the Reformation, when one branch embraced the 
Protestant faith and to emphasize the event changed their name to Cowan. In 
1732 two brothers and a nephew came to America. The brothers settled in New 
York City. The nephew, William Cowan, removed to Pennsylvania, fought in the 
siege of Louisburg in 17-45 and subsequently united with his neighbors in their 
defense against the Indians. Among his papers is a duplicate of the article trans- 
ferring his allegiance from George III. to the Continental Congress dated in 1776. 

He married Annie Wilson and in 1788 removed to Bourbon county, Ky., his 
family consisting of three sons and three daughters. In 179-1 his second son, 
William, was married to Mary Steele, and in 1806, in conseqirence of his hatred of 
slavery he removed to Clark county, Ohio. There his wife died. In 1832 Joseph 
Steele Cowan, eldest son of William and Mary S. Cowan, removed with his family 
to a farm adjoining New Paris, Elkhart Co., Ind. In 1834 William Cowan, 
Sr., with the remainder of his family, excepting one daughter, settled in Plain 
township, Kosciusko county, he giving each of his children eighty acres of land. 
The country was still occupied by the Pottawatomie and Miami Indians. The set- 
tlers boiled potatoes for their hogs and the whites of 1835 can remember seeing 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 143 

a circle of Indians grouped around the great fireplace in (W. C's.) kitchen waiting 
for the potatoes to be done, when each would plunge a sharp stick into the kettle, 
capture a potato and proceed with great gravity to peel and eat it. " The only time 
I ever remember hearing them laugh aloud was when looking at a doll of mine, 
prettily dressed and that had joints in its limbs, they would pass it from one to 
another, make it assume different positions and then laugh. It was the only 
"schamoke" man's invention I ever saw them notice," says one of the family. 

William Cowan, Sr. (third in direct line of the name), died in 1838. His eldest 
son, Joseph, who fought when a boy of seventeen, in the War of 1812, was a justice 
of the peace in this State and Ohio for more than forty years, a member of the 
State Legislature, and all his life an active and public-spirited citizen. Four of hia 
nine children remain in this State: John W., an invalid, and blind for years; Mrs. 
P. C. Merrick and Mrs. Margaret Murray reside in Goshen, and his eldest daughter, 
Mrs. Elizabeth Hively, in Elkhart. Two sons are in the far west; the rest are dead. 
Mr. Cowan, Jr., engaged in farming and merchandising in Kosciusko county until 
in 1849, when with a company of twenty men of which he was captain, he went to 
California and died there in December of that j'ear. He left one child, a daughter, 
a resident of Goshen. 

Thomas Cowan, youngest son of the second W^illiam Cowan, was married in 
Ohio to Jean Gamble, who was of Scotch-Irish descent and came to this country 
from Ireland with her father and a half-brother in the ship that brought the tea 
to Boston Harbor in old Revolutionary times, and was on board the vessel when the 
tea was thrown into the harbor at the memorable Boston tea party. He moved to 
Indiana in 1832, bought a farm near New Paris and died in 1846, leaving his 
aged wife (who died in 1851), one son and two daughters. The daughters married 
and settled in Kosciusko Ind. The son, William, a well-known and highly respected 
citizen, was in 1840, married to Narcissa Jones, daughter of Samuel Jones, a pio- 
neer of Noble county, Ind., by whom he had two daughters: Mary B. and 
Jane G. He cleared a farm in the vicinity of New Paris, made a good home 
for himself and family and became possessed of 300 acres of land. Both Mr. 
Cowan and his wife were members of the United Presbyterian Church, in which he 
was for many years an elder. Mr. Cowan died in 1871 and his wife in 1884. 

C. J. Gillette, ex- sheriff of Elkhart county, Ind., owes his nativity to the 
Empire State, his birth having occurred in Genesee county, September 26, 1825, 
his parents, Henry and Betsey (Jenks) Gillette, who were of Scotch-Irish descent, 
having also been born in the East. Both families were early settlers of the region, 
and from this State the paternal grandfather, Timothy Gillette, enlisted in the War 
of 1812, in which struggle with the mother country he rose to the rank of captain. 
He was a farmer and mill owner by calling, and accumulated considerable means. 
Adam Jenks, the maternal grandfather, died soon after settling on a farm in Ashta- 
bula county, Ohio. Henry Gillette, the father, also became an early emigrant to 
Ashtabula county, Ohio, and there he reared his family and resided until his death, 
which occurred after many years of invalidism. He and his wife became the parents 
of seven children, four of whom are living at the present time: George 'W., of New 
York City; C. J., the subject of this sketch; Julia and Helen, the last mentioned 
being residents of Ashtabula county, Ohio, and the mothers of families. C. J. Gill- 
ette removed to Ohio when thirteen years of age and received the principal part of 
his education in Geneva, but as the schools of his boyhood days were not like those 
of the present, he was not so thoroughly drilled in his books as he could have desired. 
Owing to the ill health of his father, the support of the family rested upon his and 
his brothers' shoulders and as they naturally possessed good business judgment, 
their efforts were prospered and they were successful in keeping the wolf from the 
door. C. J. Gillette remained with his mother until he was twenty years of age, 
when he married and removed to an establishment of his own. He continued to 
reside in Ashtabula county until 1857, when he moved to Camanche, Clinton Co., 



144 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Iowa, at which place he engaged iu the hardware business for two years. In 1859 
he moved to Mishawaka, Ind., but after spending one season there came to Elkhart, 
in which place he took up his residence in the fall of 1859, soon after embarking in 
the grocery business. From the time of his arrival in the city until 1873 he was an 
active business man. In the fall of that year he was appointed marshal, William 
Proctor resigning, which office he held until elected sheriff of the county in 1878, to 
which office he was re-elected in 1880, serving his two terms in a very efficient and 
satisfactory manner. Since that time he has been practically retired from the active 
duties of life. He owns considerable property in Elkhart, also Chicago, and being 
very progressive in his views, he has done much toward building up the town of 
Elkhart. He is a demitted member of the Masonic fraternity, was a member of the 
corporation board for two terms before Elkhart became a city, and has otherwise 
interested himself in the progress and development of the place. He was married 
in 1845 to Miss Mary Palmer, of Ashtabula county, Ohio, who was a native of Ver- 
mont, by whom he has two sons, both of whom are residents of Chicago: Lamar, an 
employe iu the Goodyear Rubber Company, and Henry, who is in the mail service. 
They are bright young business men and creditably fill first-class positions. The 
mother of these two boys died January 15, 1876, and the father took for his second 
wife Miss Frances C. Bates, also of Ashtabula county, Ohio. She removed with her 
parents from the East when but a child and was a warm personal friend of his first 
wife. Mr. Gillette is a stanch Republican politically. In 1859 when he took up 
his residence in Elkhart it was a town of 1,000; at this date, December 1, 1892, a 
city of over 13,000. 

Chauncet C. Carpenter, a worthy resident of German township, St. Joseph 
Co., Ind., was born in Genesee county, N. Y., September 18, 1826, his parents 
being Rufus and Mariam (Watkins) Carpenter, the former's birth occurring near 
Burlington, Vt. The father of Rufus was a native of Vermont also and tilled the 
soil for a living, in which calling he was followed by his son Rufus, when he com- 
menced to fight the battle of life for himself. The family moved to Genesee county, 
N. Y. , when it was still in quite a primitive condition, but a short time afterward 
continued their march westward, and finally found themselves in Macomb county, 
Mich., where Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter lived until their respective deaths. Rufus 
Carpenter, the father of Chauncey C, was reared in his native State on a farm, and 
when his parents made their move to Genesee county, N. Y., he went with them and 
there formed the acquaintance of and was eventually married to Mariam Watkins, 
whose birth occurred in Massachusetts on the 19th of May, 1805, her father being a 
well-known physician. Mr. Carpenter became an emigrant to Michigan at about 
the same time as his parents, and was one of the pioneers of Macomb county, where 
he made his home until the winter of 1837, when he took up his residence on a farm 
two miles south of Mishawaka in Penn township, of which locality he was one of 
the first settlers. His death occurred in Warren township, March 8, 1858, his 
widow surviving him until May 1, 1871. They were the parents of the following 
children: Isaac, born September 7, 1824, and died February 1, 1842; Chauncey C. ; 
Jerome B., born June 11, 182-; Alvin, born March 16, 1830, and died in California 
in 1S50; Mary, born March 4, 1834, and died February 11, 1837; Henry, born May 
4, 1832, now a resident of California; James M., born June 28, 1836, living in La 
Porte county, Ind.; Oliva M., born June 16, 1839, living in Michigan, and Ellen, 
born March 9, 1843, a resident of Michigan City, Ind. Chauncey C. Carpenter 
was a child of two years when taken to Michigan, and that State continued to be 
his home until he was eleven years of age. Since that time he has resided in St. 
Joseph county, consequently, the major portion of his life has been spent here, and 
at present he is one of the few remaining old settlers. Owing to the fact that his 
younger days were passed on the frontier of the then almost uninhabited West, his 
education was limited to the common subscription schools then in vogue, but by 
application and reading he has developed all the educational traits necessary to a 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 145 

successful busiuess life. He was married May 14, 18 — , to Miss Mary W. Greiner, 
who was born May 7, 18 — , in Germany, a daughter of Israel and Caroline 
(Curley) Greiner, who were also natives of the old countr_7. Israel Greiner was born 
in Wurtemburg, February 13, 1824, and came to America in 1853, settling in Ohio, 
where he resided two years. After living some time in that State, he settled in 
German township, St. Joseph Co ., Ind., and in this State his death occurred on 
the 13th of June, 1888. His widow and four children (two sons and two daughters) 
survive him. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter, they settled on the 
farm purchased by Mr. Carpenter some time previous and on which they still reside. 
Mr. Carpenter is the owner of 154 acres of valuable land, is an energetic and suc- 
cessful farmer and a successful business man. In politics he is not a partisan but 
is independent and votes for whom he considers the best man. He and his wife are 
the parents of six children: John E., born September 7, 1873, and died May 9, 
1877; George C, boru February 23, 1877; Edith born January 2, 1881; James A., 
born August 8, 1882, and died August 3, 1884; Ira, born August 20, 1885, and 
Allen G., boru July 1, 1887. 

Prosper Nichols was a resident of St. Joseph county, lud., for many years, but 
was a native of the Green Mountain State, where he was born, September 16, 1793, 
and where he grew to manhood. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and during 
the most of the time served as a scout. In the fall of 1830 he came to St. Joseph 
county, and in German township entered 160 acres of laud, but about nine years 
later settled near Rochester, lud., and on a farm in that section resided until his 
death on November 1, 1868. He was married to Susanna Kessler, by whom he 
became the father of ten children: Solomon, David, Mary, Sarah, Anna, Lucy, Eliza- 
beth, Samuel, Rachel and Aarou. Mrs. Nichols died in January, 1869. The daughter 
Sarah was born April 28, 1821, in southern Indiana, and near Rochester, lud., was 
married to William Wagner, in 1841. After their marriage they came to St. Joseph 
county, and in 1849 settled on the farm in German township where Mrs. Wagner 
now lives. She bore her husband eight children, four of whom are living: Aaron, 
Margaret, Eva and Ellen. Those deceased are: Prosper, Daniel, Benjamin and 
Susanna. Mr. Wagner was a native of Ohio, his birth occurring thereon March 16, 
1818, and his death in Nashville, Tenn., December 24, 1863. He had gone to that 
place for his son. Prosper, who was a soldier of the Union army, and was lying sick 
in the hospital in that place. The son finally returned home, but died four weeks 
afterward. Mrs. Wagner now owns a good farm of eighty-five acres, and is in the 
enjoyment of a competency. Aarou Wagner, the eldest of her living children, was 
born in Marshall county, lud., December 13, 1848, and on April 18, 1877, was mar- 
ried to Mary Kizer, who is a native of Lucas county, Ohio, her birth occurring on 
November 20, 1852, a daughter of Jesse and Nancy (Foster) Kizer. Mr. and Mrs. 
Wagner are the parents of two children, Lynn A. and Walter R. Leslie C, another 
child, died July 8, 1892. Mr. Wagner has a good farm of ninety-eight acres, but 
resides on the old homestead, which consists of 360 acres, and successfully farms both 
places. He is intelligent and progressive in his views, and in the estimation of the 
public occupies a high place, and deservedly so. Politically he has always supported 
Republican principles. 

James E. Weddel is of Welsh descent, a member of one of the old pioneer fam- 
ilies of Elkhart county, and seems by nature to have been especially designed for 
a planter, for he has met with more than the average degree of success in pursuing 
that calling, and is now the owner of a fine farm of 300 acres, which he has shown 
himself quite capable of conducting in a satisfactory manner. After coming to this 
country his grandfather settled in Westmoreland county, Penn., twenty miles from 
Pittsburg, where he followed the calling of a farmer and died when full of years, a 
highly respected citizen. He reared three sons: Joseph, Jesse and Peter. Jesse 
Weddel was born in Westmoreland county, and in addition to receiving a practical 
education in the common schools, he obtained a thorough knowledge of farming. 



146 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPUICAL 

which he found to be of great use to him when he started to tilling the soil on his 
own account. He Ijecame a very prosperous farmer, and was also the owner of a 
large distillery. He was a faithful soldier of the War of 1812, in which he did 
effective service, was loyal to the core, and throughout life was deeply interested in 
the welfare of his native land. He was married to Nancy, daughter of Ephraim 
and Agues Davis, and by her became the father of the following named children: 
Joseph, Amanda, William, Rebecca, Peter, James, Agnes, John and Elizabeth. 
Mr. Davis came to Indiana and visited Elkhart Prairie in 1828, then went through 
Michigan to Detroit and thence home. The following year be returned to Elkhart 
Prairie, then went on to Chicago and St. Louis, but found no place he liked as well 
as Elkhart Prairie, and here he entered laud as soon as it was open for settlement. 
He was a substantial farmer, owning at one time a considerable body of land, and 
at the time of his death was the owner of 200 acres, having prior to that time made 
a number of real estate sales. He was called from life in 1838, at the age of sixty 
years, having been a famous hunter throughout life, and during the days when 
game was abundant throughout this section, he kept his family well supplied with 
meat. His son. James E., whose name is at the head of this sketch, was born in 
Westmoreland county, Penn. , June 11, 1831, and was an infant in his mother's 
arms when he was brought to Indiana. His father died when he was but seven 
years of age, and he consequently received but little schooling, and is principally 
self-educated. In his early childhood his father went to mill to Big Prairie Pound, 
fifty miles distant in Michigan, and used often to go to Ft. Wayne for supplies also. 
James E. was reared in the country, but after he attained his majority he went West 
for the purpose of seeing the country, and traveled through Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, 
Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado. For some time he was in the livery business in 
Georgetown, Colo., and drove a stage from Aurora to Rock Island. Later he 
worked on a steamboat on the Mississippi River, and for three summers held the 
rank of second mate. He returned to Indiana finally, and on March 14, 1867, he 
was married to Annie C. , daughter of Zacheus and Sarah Butler, the former of 
whom came to Benton township in 1831, and settled on land now owned by Mr. 
Weddel. He was from an Ohio family, originally from Virginia, but became well 
known throughout Elkhart county, where he became a prosperous farmer and 
reared a family of eight children: Burwell J., Owen (who died at the age of twenty 
years), Filmon T., Ira A.. AVilliam A., Francis B., Julia E. and Anna C. Mr. But- 
ler lived to the age of eighty-five years, dying on the farm where so many years of 
his life had been spent. His wife's death occurred four days previous to his own, 
and they were buried in the same grave on the same day. After his marriage Mr. 
Weddel settled on the Butler homestead, but two years later changed his place of 
residence to the Weddel homestead in Elkhart Prairie, where he resided until 1879, 
at which time he again removed to the old Butler homestead, which he purchased. 
He is now a substantial farmer and owns about 300 acres of land, which makes him 
an admirable home, for it is well cultivated and improved, and very advantageously 
located, both as to farming and stockraising purposes. He was quite an extensive 
traveler in his early days, and spent considerable time with the Indians, but through 
it all his record as an honorable man was clean and untarnished, and he bore him- 
self with that uprightness which has ever been one of his leading characteristics. 
His wife is an earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and has borne 
him three children: Carrie D., Zack and Jesse. Mr. Weddel's mother lived to be 
over ninety-two years of age, for she was born in AVestmoreland county, Penn., 
January 28, 1800, and died in De Kalb county. 111., March 9, 1892, at which time 
she was the oldest pioneer living who came to Elkhart Prairie with her family. 
She was a member of the Old Settlers' Society of Goshen, and for many years of 
her life had been connected with the Baptist Church. She was a veiy bright, 
capable and energetic woman, and after the death of her husband she succeeded in 
keeping the family together, reared them in comfort and taught them to be honor- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 149 

able men and women. She took for her second husband Hiram Morehoase, by 
whom she became the mother of three children: Jesse, Emeline and George. Jesse 
and George were soldiers in an Indiana regiment during the Civil war, and Jes-se 
died in Nebraska of wounds received while in the service, and George was killed 
while marching with his company. Politically, Mr. Weddel has always been a 
stanch Republican, supports the men and measures of his party on all occasions, 
but is not an aspirant for oflSce. His daughter Carrie graduated from the graded 
school of Goshen, and has successfully taught two terms of school in Benton, and 
is a young lady of much natural ability. The sons are also well educated. 

Thomas D. Calvebt (deceased). The sketch here given is that of a former citi- 
zen and resident of German township, St. Joseph county, and is a tribute paid to 
his many virtues and to the lessons which, as a father, he impressed upon the minds 
of his children by the example of a noble and honorable life, which, although it was 
fraught with hard labor and patient indu.stry, was a model to his heirs of the sterl- 
ing qualities that characterized a man who lived nearer to nature in its purity than 
to the artifices of society. He was born in England, December 3, 1815, to Isaac 
and Isabella (Bird) Calvert, who were also natives of Great Britain, and by them 
was brought to America in 1818, settling in Philadelphia, Penn., where the father 
carried on an extensive dairy business for about fifteen years. In the fall of 1834 
he came with his family to St. Joseph county, Ind., and entered a large tract of land 
five miles southwest of South Bend, on which the family settled in a small log 
cabin, and began to clear the land and establish a home. Here Isaac Calvert lived 
until his death, Februarj' 27. 1839; his wife's death occurred March 7, 1866. 
Thomas D. Calvert was about three years of age when his parents came to America, 
and was a young man of about nineteen years of age upon their arrival in St. 
Joseph county; consequently he was among its pioneers. He was married, Novem- 
ber 26, 18-12, to Miss Sarah Curry, who was born on January 18, 1822, in Franklin 
county, Ind., a daughter of Daniel and Jane (Curry) Curry, the former of whom first 
saw the light of day in Westmoreland countj', Penn., September 18, 1791, his parents 
being James and Matilda Curry, James having been a Revolutionary patriot, enlist- 
ing at the earlv age of fifteen years. Daniel was reared on a farm in his native 
county, and was married, in 1813, to Jane Curry, a native of Pennsylvania. In the 
spring of 1825 they removed from Franklin county, Ind., where they had settled at 
a very early day, to Butler county, Ohio, where Mrs. Curry died in the month of 
October, 1827. In the spring of 1833 Mr. Curry and his children came to St. 
Joseph county, settling in Olive township, where he bought a farm and lived for 
many years. His death occurred in Kansas in 1862. After the marriage of Mr. 
and Mrs. Calvert they settled on a farm in Portage township, but two years later 
removed to Olive township, and in April, 1848, they came to German township, 
where Mr. Calvert purchased 120 acres of land, on which his widow now makes her 
home. He was an industrious and hard-working man, and bv careful management 
accumulated considerable property, being the owner of nearly 200 acres at the time 
of his death, which occurred on December 22, 1890. He was a man of undoubted 
honor and integrity, and his death was much regretted by all who had known, loved 
and respected him in life. His union resulted in the birth of six children: Isaac B. , 
Daniel M. , Mary J., Sarah E. , Elizabeth (^deceased) and Cora I. (deceased). In 
addition to the estate in German township Mrs. Calvert owns nearly 100 acres in 
Union township, and is thus insured a comfortable and prosperous old age. She is 
a lady of intelligence and refinement, is kind, hospitable and charitable and has 
many warm personal friends. 

Peter Phillips, farmer of Clinton township, Elkhart Co. Ind., is of sturdy 
English stock, and the family tree first took root on American soil about the time 
of the Revolution. Peter Phillips, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was 
a farmer of Loudoun county, Va. ; was there married and reared a family of chil- 
dren, of whom John, Wilson and Nancy are the only ones remembered. He moved to 

10 



150 PICTORIAL AJS^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

Athens county, Ohio, and lived on a farm there until he was quite advanced in 
years, when he came to Indiana and made his home with his son John until his 
death, which occurred at the age of eighty-one years. John Phillips, his son, was 
born in Loudoun county, Va., and in early manhood removed to Athens county, 
Ohio, and was married there to Miss Esther Batchelor, whose father had been a 
soldier of the War of 181"2, and her grandfather an old Revolutionary soldier. The 
Batchelors were of English descent and old settlers of the State of Maine, and 
pioneers of Athens county, Ohio. Mrs. Phillips' brothers and sisters that are re- 
membered were: Daniel, William, Ollie, Polly, Nancy and Abigail. In 1836 Mr. 
Phillips came to the new county of Elkhart, Ind., and entered land which his son 
Peter now owns. To him and his wife seven children were given, all of whom 
attained mature years: Benjamin, William, Sallie, Eliza, Adaline, Levina, and 
Peter. Mr. Phillips entered eighty acres of land covered with timber; built a log 
cabin thereon and gradually began to clear up his land, but besides this, had sixty 
acres in Clinton township. He was always industrious, thrifty and honest, and 
politically was a Jeffersonian Democrat. His death, which occurred at the age of 
sixty-nine years, August 15, 1872, was universally regretted, for he was one of the 
county's most progressive citizens and was highly esteemed for his upright character 
and his sterling integrity. His wife was a member of the Christian Church. Their 
son Peter, the subject of this sketch, was born on his father's farm in this township, 
January 25, 1840, and was early innured to the vicissitudes of pioneer life. AVhat 
education he secured in his youth was obtained in the old log school house of those 
days, and this knowledge he has since greatly increased by reading and contact 
with the business afFairsof life. In addition to becoming familiar with the duties of 
farming, he also learned the carpenter' s trade of his father, who followed that calling 
from an early day and exchanged work with his neighbors. He took for his com- 
panion through life, Elizabeth, daughter of Lewis Williams, who was of Irish 
descent and was one of the first settlers of Kosciusko county, Ind., to which region 
he removed from Ohio. He reared four children: Elizabeth, John D., William W. 
and Jane. Mr. Williams is now residing in Miami county, Kan., and has attained 
to the age of seventy-four years. He has married twice, his second wife being 
Miss Mary Miller, by whom he became the father of four children. He has followed 
the calling of agriculture throughout life and is now in good circumstances. He and 
his wife are earnest members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. After his mar- 
riage Peter Phillips remained on the old homestead; bought out the other heirs of 
the property and by industry and thrift added to the original tract until he now 
owns 240 acres. In 1881 he erected a substantial brick residence — one of the finest 
in the township, and his farm buildings are all substantial and kept in good repair. 
He is what may be termed a thrifty and prudent farmer, and everything about his 
place indicates that a man of intelligence and sound judgment has control of affairs. 
His farm is one of the most valuable in the township, for besides being exceedingly 
fertile it is well supplied with a number of fine springs of pure cold water, which 
makes it well adapted to the raising of stock. Ten children have been born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Phillips: Alice M., Lewis F., Esther E., Carrie M., Warren W., Orrin 
E., Nora B., William B. , Clarence C. and Grover C. Mr. Phillips has held the 
office of township trustee two terms, and politically is a stanch Democrat. He and his 
wife are members of the Lutheran Church, and he is a very public-spirited gentle- 
man; has been a member of the school board a number of terms and has also held 
the position of road supervisor. He is giving his children good advantages for an 
education, and Carrie M. has graduated from the graded schools of Goshen and 
has tauo-ht school three terms in Clinton township and has met with good success. 
J.4.C0B YoDER, who resides near Goshen, Ind., has been remarkably successful as 
a husbandman and at one time was the owner of 600 acres of as fine land as could 
be found iu Elkhart county. For generations the family have been members of the 
Amish Mennonite Church and were originally from Switzerland, from which coun- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 151 

try they fled on account of religious persecution, to America and sought a home in 
the wilds of Pennsylvania, where an asylum had been offered them by the great 
law giver and benefactor, William Penn. The Yoders settled in Lancaster county 
and were a peaceable and law-abiding people and thrifty and industrious farmers 
and, like the patriarchs of old, whose ways they closely followed, they multiplied and 
flourished in the land. Christian Yoder, the great-grandfather of Jacob, was born 
in Switzerland in February, 1728, but in 174:4 he took up his abode in America and 
until 1775 was a resident of the eastern part of Pennsylvania, at which time he 
moved to Somerset county of the same State, where he was called from life in the 
month of November, 1816. His sons were: Christian, Solomon, John, Jonathan, 
Henry, David and Jacob. He was married twice. His son, Jacob, was born in the 
Keystone State and became a substantial farmer and land owner of Somerset county. 
He was also married twice and his lirst wife bore him a number of children, only 
David, Christian. Joseph and Elizabeth of whom are remembered. His second 
wife bore him children named: Mary, Catherine. Philip and Jacob. He lived to be 
an old man, was much respected in the community in which he resided, was honor- 
able in every particular, was industrious, and in other ways set a good example to 
his children. His son. Christian, was born in the old homestead in Somerset county, 
was brought up to a thorough knowledge of farm life in his native county. He was 
married there to Miss Juda Gindlesperger, who was born July 24, 1787, and died 
November 8, 1S32, after having borne him a family of ten children, all of whom grew 
to maturity with the exception of two, Peter and Barbara, both of whom died in 
childhood. Those who attained manhood were: Stephen, Jacob, Tobias, Joseph, 
John, Valentine, Daniel and Herman. The father of these children took for his 
second wife Miss Koffman, who bore him two children: Moses and Elizabeth. Mr. 
Yoder lived to be nearly eighty years of age and died on November 17, 1866, on his 
farm in Somerset county. He was a devout Christian, a follower of the doctrines 
of his church and lived an upright and useful life. He was at one time township 
collector, and in various other ways proved himself a useful citizen. Jacob Yoder, 
his son and the immediate subject of this biography, first saw the light of day on 
his father's farm in Somerset county, Penn., September 2, 1814, and there he 
obtained a slight knowledge of German, but no knowledge of the English branches. 
He early learned to labor in a thorough and painstaking way and at the age of 
twenty-three went to Wayne county, Ohio, and worked at clearing land, and was 
there married on January 4, 1837, to Miss Rachel Yoder, who was born June 23, 
1810, in Somerset county, Penn., her parents being Solomon and Barbara (Miller) 
Yoder. Their marriage resulted in the birth of five children: Herman; Elizabeth, 
who died in early womanhood; Edward; Amos; and Jonas, whose death occurred 
in childhood. Mr. Yoder cleared a woodland farm of 150 acres in Wayne county, 
Ohio, but sold it and in 1847 came to Indiana and settled on his present farm con- 
sisting of 180 acres. As he has been prospered financially he has made additional pur- 
chases of land and is now the owner of some magnificent real estate which is very 
valuable. This property was mostly acquired by hard work, in the good old-fash- 
ioned way of tilling the soil, in which his faithful wife gave him efficient aid. Like 
their ancestors before them they are members of the Amish Mennonite Church; have 
brought up their children to the same belief, and thus have been handed down from 
father to son the religious principles of the early founders of the church. Mr. 
Yoder followed the example of his father and gave each of his children a good start 
in life, but reserved 177 acres in Kosciusko county. This family is an example of 
prudent living and of simple, Christian life. 

Dr. G. W. Spohn, of Elkhart, Ind., is a prominent specialist in diseases of the 
nose, throat and ear, and is in the enjoj'ment of a large practice with the better 
class of citizens in and around the city. He has always been a close student in his 
chosen profession and the result is every day seen in the large number of patrons 
constantly flocking to his ofiice, and he is regarded by his friends, and justly so, as 



153 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

doing a very large business. Although the humanizing influences of Christianity 
are shown in thousands of directions, it is shown in none to a more marked degree 
than that of medicinal and surgical science. Notwithstanding the fact that Elkhart 
has many tine physicians, Dr. Spohn is ranked among the leaders. He was born in 
Concord township, Elkhart county, April 19, 1857, a son of Daniel and Mary Spohn, 
the former of whom settled in the vicinity of Elkhart in 1844. The Doctor inherits 
German, English and Welsh blood of his parents. He was brought up on a farm and 
like the majority of farmer's boys, obtained his education in the district schools 
near his rural home. At the age of eighteen, being of an ambitious and independent 
disposition, he secured a school in the neighborhood of his home, and was engaged 
in teaching for several terms, his leisure hours being devoted to the perusal of med- 
ical books. Subsequently he entered the Normal College, of Valparaiso, lud., where 
he took a scientific and classical course, after which he was employed as professor 
of sciences in the college at Portland, Ind., occupying the chair for a term of two 
years, at which time he resigned the position in order to still further prosecute his 
medical studies. He entered the office of Dr. Arthur, of Portland, a well-known 
physician, and completed his course in the Medical College of Ohio, at Cincinnati, 
graduating in 1887. He located in Elkhart in the spring of the same year and 
began life's battle against many competitors, aad in the practice or his profession he 
has gained a reputation that money could not buy. Not satisfied with what he 
already knew of his profession, he took a post-graduate course in the Polyclinic of 
Chicago, and a like course in the city of New York, and obtained much valuable 
experience while doing hospital work in that city. He has a nicely appointed office 
at the corner of Main and Division streets, well equipped with all the latest and 
modern appliaaces in instruments and electrical apparatus which he obtained at a 
heavy expense. In fact, the Doctor is not excelled either in New York City or 
Chicago in appliances for his speciality. He is a member of a number of medical 
fraternitie.s, is president of the Elkhart City School Board, and president of the Home 
Electric Light & Power Company. In 1885 he was married to Miss Elma demons, 
a most accomplished lady of Davenport, Iowa. They have three children: Vera M., 
Lillian C. and Iris H. The Doctor and his wife are members in good standing in 
the Presbyterian Church. 

John J. Newman, superintendent of the Globe Tissue Paper Company of Elkhart, 
Ind., brings to bear special qualifications by reason of a wide range of experience, 
close study of the wants of the best class of trade, and a sound, equitable commer- 
cial policy. This establishment has most influential and widespread trade relations 
by reason of the extent, superiorit}' and moderate price of its stock. Mr. Newman 
was born in Brown county, Ohio, August 31, 1826, a son of Joseph and Nancy 
(Jolly) Newman, natives of the Buckeye State, the Newman family having been 
very early residents of that State. The paternal grandfather was a soldier in the 
War of 1812. Joseph Newman followed the peaceful, independent and happy pursuit 
of farming in Brown county, Ohio, until his death. His widow died at Des Moines, 
Iowa, having become the mother of three children: Alexander, now of California; 
John J. , and David, of Middletown, Ohio. The subject of this sketch was onl)' ten 
years of age when his father died, and up to that age he followed the occupation of 
farming, but when thirteen years of age he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and began to 
shift for himself, but first attended school for one year. Succeeding this he was a 
tobacconist for a short time, but at the age of fifteen years he abandoned it to learn 
the carpenter's trade, at which he served a four years' apprenticeship with one man, 
and was afterward with Pearson & Newton, of Cincinnati, for two years. When 
twentj'-one years of age he embarked in business on his own responsibility and con- 
tinued to successfully carry it on in Cincinnati until 1850, when he removed to 
Middletown, Ohio, to take charge of a plauiug mill, and subsequently branched out 
extensively in contracting, in addition to successfully conducting a sash, door and 
blind factory. He did an extensive bridge contracting business and also built nu- 



MEMOIRS OF TXDIAXA. 153 

merous houses, in fact, conducted a lively business, which kept him constantly 
employed. He built the paper mills of Middletowu and converted the planing mill 
into the Titus Paper Mill. After remaining in Middletown until 1873 he came to Elk- 
hart, Ind., to build the Globe Paper Mills for Erwin, Tpp & Co.. but continued to 
remain here four years and built the pulp mills for Joseph Gregg and superintended 
the building of the Elkhart Paper Mill. His next business venture was as a bag 
manufacturer and later began manufacturing straw-board paper in the mills of the 
Baldwin, Sage Wagon Company, but this old structure subsequently burned down. 
He next formed a joint stock company and built a straw-board mill which was finally 
converted into what is now the Globe Paper Mill, of which he is superintendent 
and which is doing a very extensive and satisfactory business. When this mill was 
first started both white and colored tissue paper was used, but they now make waxed 
tissue paper exclusively. After their first mill was consumed by fire the present 
building was purchased, the establishment is in constant working order, night and 
day, and the product is shipped to jobbers principally. Mr. Newman is a stock- 
holder in this concern and its very efficient superintendent. They make a specialty 
of waxed paper, and Mr. Newman is the inventor of two machines for wax- 
ing paper, on which he has received patents. Thirty hands are given em- 
ployment the year round. He was a member of the city council for three terms 
and has shown much interest in the affairs of Elkhart. In 18-17 he was married to 
Miss Elizabeth Devall, by whom he has three children : William, Warfield and Charles. 
Mrs. J.iXE McCoxAUGHT has been a resident of Elkhart county for many years, 
and although she has attained the age of sixty-nine years she is still in the enjoy- 
ment of fair health, is very intelligent and retains her mental faculties to a remark- 
able degree. She was the only cliild born to James Frier, a Scotch-Irishman by 
birth, and a son of Thomas and Jane (Wilson) Frier, who conducted a linen bleach- 
ery in County Down, near Belfast, Ireland, close to " Eonan Tree." Thomas Frier 
was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and was a man of considerable means. 
He died in Ireland when quite aged. He became the father of quite a large family, 
but only Robert. James and Margaret are remembered. Eobert came to America 
and settled on a farm near Des Moines, Iowa, where he reared a family and is still 
living. James, the other son and the father of the subject of this sketch, was born 
near Belfast, Ireland, in July, 1800, apd there learned the trade of a stocking weaver. 
Although he received only the three months' schooling in his youth, he learned to 
read and write, and being of an ambitious disposition, at the early age of eighteen 
years he came to America and hired out as a farm hand in the vicinity of Burling- 
ton, Vt., in which section he met and married Clarinda, daughter of Caleb and 
Marion Young, the former of whom was a stone mason by trade and a resident of 
New Hampshire, in which State he reared thirteen children and was called from 
life. His wife was a Hillard, of Dutch stock. After his marriage Janles Frier 
resided on a farm in Yermoot for five years, and there his daughter, Jane, was born 
on November 12, 182-1. In 1829 Mr. Frier turned his face in the direction of St. 
Joseph county, Ind., making the journey with three yoke of oxen and a large Penn- 
sylvania wagon, which he purchased in M'hitehall, N. Y., while en route. He also 
had a one-horse wagon drawn by a French pony. He and his family spent the 
winter at White Pigeon with a Mr. Olds, and in March resumed their journey, 
reaching Elkhart Prairie on the 17th of that month. At that time the snow was two 
feet deep, and a fierce storm was raging and continued for three days, during which 
time Mr. Frier and his wife and daughter camped on the east side of a large log and 
kept warm Ijy means of a large fire made of hazel brush. This was on the east side 
of the prairie and on a portion of the farm now occupied by Leonard McConaughy, 
Mr. Frier's grandson. The country was ftdl of Indians but they did not molest the 
Friers, and when they were seen were friendly. The family lived on corn bread 
and venison, for deer were plenty and easily killed; and in the spring Mr. Frier em- 
ployed ten men to split rails and plow up a tract of land, and one of these men was 



154 PICTOSIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

so tired of the wild life in the wilderness and the everlasting " hoe cake " that he 
told Mr. Frier that if he would give him wheat bread to eat he would work for him 
for nothing. Mr. Frier brought with him from Vermont a bound boy named Will- 
iam Y. Wilson, who is now a prosperous farmer and respected citizen of Santa Rosa, 
Cal. Mrs. Frier had among her effects 13 pounds of tea, 5 pounds of sugar and 1 
pound of coffee, which constituted the family's stock of groceries. They traded 
with the Indians for maple sugar and houey, Isut could not eat the sugar on account 
of the dirt that was in it, but melted it and made it into vinegar. Old Cookoosh, an 
Indian chief, often came to the cabin to trade with Mr. Frier and was very friendly. 
There were but three white settlers between Ft. Wayne and White Pigeon, as fol- 
lows: Oliver Crane, who resided near the present Goshen fair grounds; a Mr. Boyd, at 
Benton, who was a French-Indian trader, and Maj. Violett on the west side of the 
prairie, which was then two miles wide and three miles long and covered with tall 
grass. Mr. Frier went forty miles for his supplies to a point near Niles, Mich., and 
used to cross the St. Jo River near Elkhart in high-water times by swimming his 
oxen. In this way his grist sometimes got wet, and in order to prevent it from 
molding it was put up to dry on the roof of the house. This is but one illustration 
of the hardships the early settlers had to endure, but they were borne courageously 
and without a mtirmur, for they knew it was but a question of time when brighter 
days would come. It was five years before any mail came to the settlers from the 
Eastern States. By industry and hard work James Frier accumulated 030 acres of 
land, which he conducted in an intelligent and satisfactory manner. He was at one 
time associated in business with a Mr. Griffin, in Goshen, but the business proved 
disastrous and Mr. Frier paid the debts. In 1850 he was seized with the California 
" gold fever," and made the journey to that State via New Tork City and Cape 
Horn. He at once engaged in mining there, but like many other ambitious and 
enterprising men who sought the treasures of mother earth in the wild West, he had 
only been in that section a short time when his career was cut short by death, his 
dissolution taking place in 1852. He and his wife were members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, and their pioneer cabiu was used for religious purposes on many occa- 
sions by the early ministers of the Hoosier State. His wife died February 9, 186'2, aged 
seventy-seven years. The first court in Elkhart county was held on the threshing floor 
which belonged to Mr. Frier, and the cases were nearly all against the settlers for 
indulging in too much whisky. Mr. Frier was at one time collector of the county, 
and as the county was not organized he carried the results to Indianapolis in a pair 
of saddle-bags. His daughter, Jane, was married at the age of twenty-one, June 2, 
1844, to Alexander McConaughy, a Scotch-Irishman from the Emerald Isle, whose 
mother died of cholera in Quebec. After their marriage this young couple com- 
menced housekeeping in Elkhart Prairie, and after clearing up a farm, sold out in 
1849, to James Frier, and removed to about twenty-five miles above Des Moines, 
Iowa, on the Des Moines River, where they had a farm of 214 acres, on which they 
lived until 1852, when they returned to Indiana and located on the old James Frier 
homestead. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. McConaughy: James, 
Clarinda, William (who died young) Charles, Leonard, David, Elizabeth, Austin and 
Isadora, all of whom have been well educated. David graduated from the State 
University of Bloomington, Ind., and died May 7, 1886, at the age of thirty years. 
The* father of these children was an industrious and honorable man, and was kind 
and considerate to his family. His widow has seen the country grow from a primi- 
tive wilderness to its present settled condition, which result has been brought about 
only by great labor. She has been possessed of great strength and force of char- 
acter, to face, as she has done, the privations of frontier life and to instill in her 
children principles of truth and right. She has borne her part in life's battles faith- 
fully and well, and has found much comfort and consolation in the Scriptures. She 
has long been a devout and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
Mr. McConaughy died September 22, 1866. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 155 

Seth a. Jones is one of the honored residents of Elkhart county, where in va- 
rious capacities he has proved his claim to upright and meritorious citizenship. 

Israel Hess comes of German stock, the first member of his family to settle in 
America being his grandfather, Baltser Hess, who was born in Hesse, Germany, 
and came to America before the breaking out of the Eevolutionary war, through 
which he served as one of Gen. Washington's body guard. He was captured at 
the battle of Long Island, and was a prisoner for seven days. He was a shoe- 
maker by trade, and this occupation received the most of his attention throughout 
life, although in later years he also followed the calling of an agriculturist to some ex- 
tent. After the termination of the Revolution he was married to Miss Eve Hen- 
sel, of German stock, by whom he became the father of nine children: Daniel, 
Baltser, Moses, Sally, Eve, Polly, Betsey, Katie and Susan. Mr. Hess spent 
his first years in America in the vicinity of Philadelphia, but after his marriage 
resided tor a time in Bedford, Penn., and later took up his abode in Ross 
county, Ohio, on land which had been granted him two miles north of the city 
of Columbus, and on which he passed the rest of his days, dying a few years after 
his first settlement. A portion of this land is still in the possession of his de- 
scendants. In his youth he received a common -school education, was an excellent 
pi-ovider, in comfortable circumstances, and was an honest, straightforward man and 
a patriot. He died in 1806 at the age of sixty years, a member of the Lutheran 
Chmch and an old line Whig in politics. His son Baltser was born in Bedford, 
Penn., received a limited common-school education in his youth, and was an active 
participant in the War of 1812, stationed at Upper Sandusky. In his youth he 
learned the details of farming and also the baker's trade, and after his marriage 
to Sarah Immell he settled at Columbus, Ohio, and engaged in the bakery busi- 
ness. After a time he settled on 100 acres of land in Franklin county, Ohio, but 
in 1829 left that State to remove to Indiana, and arrived in Elkhart Prairie May 
5. He found John Violett settled in a log cabin, having just arrived; also a 
Mr. Riggs and a Mr. Simpson, who had arrived the fall before, and Col. Jackson 
and James Frier who came in the spring of 1829. Mr. Hess brought with him to this 
section three yoke of oxen, a team of horses and two large wagons, one drawn by 
two yoke of cattle and the other by one yoke and the team of horses in the lead. He 
drove before him several other horses, quite a herd of cattle, sheep and hogs, so 
that he was much better equipped to begin life in a new country than the major- 
ity of pioneer settlers. Mr. Hess settled with his family two miles south of 
Goshen, on land which he had selected the previous year, when he had made 
a visit to the region. This land had been pre-empted by a man by the name 
of John Thornton, who had built a little log cabin, and for the improvements 
that had been made Mr. Hess paid him $17. Mr. and Mrs. Hess became the par- 
ents of eleven children that lived to maturity and reared families of their own: 
John, Elias, Mary E., Baltser, Moses, Israel, Daniel, Emily, Martha, Jacob and 
Lydia. These children were partly grown when Mr. Hess removed to Indiana, 
and his sons assisted him in clearing and improving the home farm. He was at 
one time the owner of 1,300 acres, but he kindly assisted his sons to a start in life 
and only retained the old homestead, which consisted of 600 acres and brought 
him in an income sufficient to abundantly provide for himself and wife throughout 
life. They were earnest members of the Baptist Church, and he was a local 
minister of that denomination, his house being the stopping place of the early 
preachers who came to the region. They found in Mr. Hess an admirable aid in 
establishing and organizing clmrches, and he was also very active in advancing 
the cause of education by erecting school houses, and while serving as trustee of 
his school district endeavored to procure good teachers. He was a strongly 
built man, possessed a good constitution, and succeeded in establishing a good 
home, where he reared a large family to honorable manhood and womanhood. 
In fact, his value as a pioneer was inestimable; for he was enterprising, public 



156 PICTORIAL AND BIOGIiAPIIICAL 

spirited and well to do, and did not selfishly use his means for his own benefit aloue, 
but was liberal in his contributions to worthy enterprises. His son Israel was born 
in Franklin county, Ohio, September 28, 1818, ou his father's farm, but his youth 
was almost entirely devoid of school advantages, for his time was almost wholly de- 
voted to assisting to clean and till the home farm. He was in his twelfth year 
when he came to Indiana, and in Elkhart Prairie he grew to manhood. Indians 
at that time were quite numerous throughout that section, and often came to his 
home to trade with his father. Deer and wild turkeys were not plentiful in 
the region until after the Indians had left the country, but the streams were full 
of fish, and prairie chickens abounded. Mr. Hess went to the first school ever 
held in Elkhart Prairie, taught by a Mr. Smith in his own cabin on congressional 
land, which, when surveyed, became school land which was not subject to pre-emp- 
tion, and the latter was obliged to move to other quarters soon after. Young Israel 
helped to clear away the brush which bordered the margin of the prairie, much 
of which was kept back by fires started by the Indians, but which has since 
been allowed to grow and now constitutes good timber land. The prairie was 
covered with sage grass, and in the woodland openings the wild pea-vine grew 
luxuriously, on which the cattle subsisted. Mr. Hess' father obtained his 
supplies at Michigan City, some sixty-five miles away, but the wants of the fam- 
ily were very simple, and they were content with what they could obtain from 
their own land. He first laid in a supply of corn meal at Fort Wayne, sufficient to 
last the family until a crop could be raised, and as soon as roasting ears were 
large enough, the family lived largely on them and afterward ground the ripe corn 
and made meal. At the age of twenty-one Israel Hess began to work for him- 
self ou Some woodland which had been given him by his father, upon which there 
had not been a tree felled, but this land he afterward sold and was given 205 
acres of laud in Kosciusko county, Ind., by his father, which was also timber land. 
He cleared 100 acres of this farm, but at the end of ten years, or in 1863, he came 
to his present fine farm of 200 acres, then a cultivated and improved farm. Here 
he has made many valuable improvements, erecting an excellent barn and a sub- 
stantial brick residence. The daughter of John B. and Susannah (Ditmore) Cripe, 
Eosanna Cripe, became his wife and has borne him seven children: Mary E., Sey- 
mour, Moses, Cassius M. , Martha. Nancy and Ida L. Mrs. Hess is a member of 
the Dunkard Church. Mr. Hess has given all his children good educations, and 
stands high as an industrious and honorable citizen. He is now seventy-four j-ears 
of age, but is still vigorous and hale, the result of a naturally good constitution 
and right living. Mr. Hess originally was a Whig in politics, and at the organiza- 
tion of the Republican party in 1856 he joined himself to it. His reasons, as he 
says, for being a Republican are that the party of his choice is American, and 
that the Government was founded in liberty and his ancestors bore an humble yet 
important part in superseding the lion with the eagle. 

Feank L. Goff, photographer. In few branches of art or science have such de- 
velopments or perfected improvements been made as in photography and no estab- 
lishment in Elkhart county shows more conclusive proof of this assertion than that 
of Frank L. Goff. This gentleman is an artist of well-known reputation and wher- 
ever his works are exhibited they are recognized as of superior quality and finish. 
Mr. Goff was born in Coldwater, Slich., April 2, 1845, a son of Dorset J. and Julia 
(Terrill) Goff, the former of whom was born in Courtland county, N. Y. , and the 
latter in Ashtabula, Ohio. Dorset J. Goff became a hardware merchant of Cold- 
water, Mich., and died in Burr Oak, Mich., of which town he was mayor at the time 
of his death. He had three sons and one daughter, the subject of this sketch being 
the eldest of the family. He was reared in his native town and was educated there 
and at Hillsdale, Mich., but in 1863, removed to Buffalo, N. Y.. where he was em- 
ployed in the wholesale hardware business of Sidney Shepherd & Co. , with whom 
he remained five years, two subsequent years being spent with the Western Insur- 



MEMOIRS OF IXDI^INA. 157 

ance Company, of Buffalo. At the eud of this time the death of his father called 
him to Burr Oak, where he remained for some time studying music and the art of 
photography. la 1S77 he came to Elkhart and purchased a photograph gallery of 
Daniel W. Smith and has conducted a successful business ever since. He has occu- 
pied his present quarters since December, 1881, and it is needless to add that Mr. 
Goff's patrons are of the refined and cultivated classes, who appreciate art at its 
true value. His reception rooms are well and tastefully fitted up, and his studio is 
one of the most attractive in Elkhart. He executes photography in all its branches, 
and produces in all his work the best and most beautiful effects. Socially he is a 
gentleman and an honest and upright business man.- Many pages of this book are 
adorned with portraits reproduced from negatives by Goff. 

David Miller, son of Elder Jacob Miller, whose sketch appears in this work, 
was born in Franklin county, Va., about the year 1788, and in 1800 removed with 
his parents to Ohio, and grew to manhood in the vicinity of Dayton, and was there 
united in marriage with Sarah Hardman. He afterward settled in Wayne county, 
Ind., and in 1829 came to St. Joseph county to select a home, and in the spring 
of 1830 brought his family here to settle on a farm four miles west of South Bend 
in German township, where he had entered between five hundred and six hundred 
acres of land. Here he improved a large tract, and with characteristic generosity 
granted portions of the same to his children. When about twenty-five years of 
age Mr. Miller became a minister of the German Baptist Church, and was an 
eminent, worthy and eloquent minister of the gospel until his death, and was highly 
honored and respected for his exemplary life and generosity by all who knew him. 
According to the belief and custom of the church he never received any financial 
remuneration for his services. He was an intelligent farmer and good business 
man, and as he was also a hard worker and a careful manager he accumulated a 
good property. He died on the homestead in German township on the farm which 
he had entered and labored to improve. His widow survived him until June 2, 1850, 
having borne him the following children: Elizabeth; Aaron, who was an earnest 
and capable minister of the German Baptist Church, and died in South Bend at 
the age of seventy-nine years; Catherine, who married James Goot, and lived in 
German township; Hannah, died in infancy; Anna, married Robert Cissne; Phoebe, 
married Joseph Cissne, and lived in La Porte county; Mary, married Isaac Marble, 
and lived in German township; Sarah, married George Witter; Susan, married 
Philip Boone; David, married Elizabeth Hoover, and removed to Iowa in the early 
settlement of that State and there died; Martin, married Elizabeth A. Wills, and 
removed to Iowa, settling near Des Moines; and the j'oungest child, Tobias, 
married Surena Jackson, moved to Kansas, and in that State spent the remainder 
of his days. Daniel H. Miller, of South Bend, was born June 18, 1831, in German 
township, a son of David and Sarah (Hardman) Miller. On the old homestead his 
boyhood and early manhood was passed, and the district schools of the township 
afforded him his education. December 4, 1852, he took a wife in the person 
of Mary O. Price, who was born July 8, 1833, in German township, daughter 
of Joshua M. and Frances (Huston) Price, the former a native of Kentucky, 
and the latter of Ohio. They came to St. Joseph county, Ind. , in the 
spring of 1833, and in German township made their home for many years. Mr. 
and Mrs. Price were the parents of two children, one of whom died in infancy. 
Mrs. Price died March 27, 1889, in South Bend, and Mr. Price survives her and 
makes his home with his daughter Mary, being over eight-one years of age. After 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Miller located on a farm in Warren township, and 
three years lated settled on a farm of eighty acres, the greater portion of which 
Mr. Miller cleared and improved. His industry was rewarded, and since his retire- 
ment from the active duties of life in 1879, he has enjoyed a comfortable com- 
petency. He is a resident of South Bend and there owns valuable residence 
property. Mr. Miller and his wife have two adopted children: Byall T. and Viola 



158 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

A., who married Adam Kollar. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the Univer- 
salist Church, and in politics he is a Republican. They both possess admirable 
traits of character and naturally have numerous friends. 

IsAi.4_H VioLETT, an honored and well-to-do citizen of Elkhart county, Ind., is 
descended from an old colonial family of French origin that has flourished in Amer- 
ica since the first member of the family landed on our shores and songht to carve 
out a home for himself in the then wilds of this country. Isaiah Violett is a 
son of Major John W. Violett and was born on the old homestead belonging to the 
former, June 2, 1835, in the vicinity of which he received a common-school educa- 
tion in the pioneer §chool house of his day. which was supplemented by an 
attendance of the public schools of Goshen. He remained at home until he was 
twenty-three years of age, for he found that he could profitably employ his time on 
the home farm, which was a fine tract of land in one body, two and one-fourth miles 
long by one-half mile wide, and contained 750 acres. Besides this his father also 
owned other valuable land amounting in all to 1,330 acres, and Isaiah naturally 
settled on one of these farms when he started out in life for himself and in time had 
cleared 160 acres from the heavj' timber which covered it. Like all pioneer set- 
tlers he had to labor incessantly to accomplish this result and although he bravely 
endured the usual hardships, his efforts were at last crowned with success. On 
September 4, 1862, he married Helen C, daughter of Curtis Hale, and after his 
marriage he resided on a farm in Jackson township until 1871, when he purchased 
a part of the old homestead consisting of 147 acres of land, but later sold a part of 
this and gave ten acres to the Waterford Cemetery on the Elkhart River. Mr. Vio- 
lett devoted but little attention to farming, his attention at present being given 
to the purchase and sale of real estate, for which he seems to have a natural aptitude, 
as he has done, and is doing remarkably well in his line. He is so circumstanced 
that he is enabled to take life easy and quiet pursuits occupy the most of his 
time. He has traveled extensively in the United States and has several times visited 
the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. His descriptions of California life and scenery are 
graphic and interesting, for being a close observer no object of interest escaped his 
eyes, and he has the power of expressing himself in a fluent and interesting 
manner. Politically he has always supported Republican principles, but in no way 
has been an aspirant for political favor as the turmoil and intrigue of the political 
arena is not at all to his taste. He has become well known for his hospitality, 
for to his pleasant home his friends are warmly welcomed, and no one is turned from 
his door without a kindly and cordial word. He is highly respected for his many 
excellent traits of character and possesses those qualities of honesty, intelligence and 
energy for which the American citizen has become world famed. 

E. H. Pefflet. a biographical compendium of St. Joseph county, Ind. , would 
be incomplete were not mention made of the gentleman whose name introduces this 
sketch, for he is a man of much public spirit; he donates liberally to all public 
enterprises and gives his influence to every just measure for the promotion of 
the common good. He has resided in the county all his life and the people 
have had every opportunity to become familiar with his character and qualifi- 
cations and his good name has always remained unsullied. His birth occur- 
red in Warren township. December 30, 18-48, Joseph and Catherine (Burt- 
ner) Peflley, natives of Lebanon county, Penn., being his parents. The family 
originated in Germany, from which country the grandfather came. Joseph Peffley 
was a minister of the United Brethren Church and for thirty-five years preached the 
doctrines of Christianity in Elkhart and St. Joseph counties. In September, 1848, 
he located in Warren township, of this county, where he purchased a farm on which 
he lived until the day of his death, Jamiary 23, 1885. His wife was called from 
life November 7, of the previous year, having borne her husband four children: Simon, 
Henry, Daniel and Ephraim. E. H. Peffley l^as always been familiar with farming 
and has made that his chief means of livelihood. In the fall of 1873 he moved to 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIANA. 159 

Greene township, where he has since resided on a well-improved farm of ninety-four 
acres, which, if small, is so admirably tilled that it yields a paying income. He has 
always been a Republican in his political views since he became old enough to vote, 
and his party showed its appreciation of his faithfulness in April, 1888, by electing 
him to the office of township trustee and honoring him by a re-election in 1890. 
He has displayed much ability in discharging his duties, and is in every way capable 
of filling a much more responsible position. In 1871 Anna Robertson, a daughter of 
J. W. Robertson, of South Bend, became his wife, and to their union two children 
have been given: V. Mariel and Clyde R. Mr. Peffley, besides thoroughly tilling his 
farm after the most approved methods, also gives considerable attention to raising 
sheep and thoroughbred hogs. 

H. B. Sykes, dry goods and carpets, Elkhart, Ind. The dry goods, carpet and 
cloak house par excellence of Elkhart is the spacious and well-conducted emporium 
of which Mr. Sykes is the proprietor, which occupies an eligible location and is in 
command of a huge trade. Mr. Sykes was born in Dorset, Vt. , March 18, 1844, a 
son of I. N. and Diana (Gilbert) Sykes, who were also born in the Green Mountain 
State. Richard Sykes, the earliest ancestor of whom they have any knowledge re- 
sided at Dorchester, Mass., in 1634, from which place he removed to Springfield, 
Mass. , in 1676. Victory Sykes, his son, was born in Springfield, Mass., March 3, 
1648, and died in Suffield, Conn., April 25, 1768, at the age of sixty years. Victory 
Sykes, Jr., son of the senior Victory Sykes, was born in Suffield, Conn., September 
5, 1689, and died September 12, 1749, at which time he was also in his sixtieth year. 
Titus Sykes, son of Victory Sykes, Jr., first saw the light of day in Suffield, Conn., 
June 15, 1726 but subsequently became a resident of Dorset, Vt., where he died 
January 7, 1811, his wife, Rhoda's, death occurring in 1790, after having become 
the mother of a large old-fashioned family of fifteen children. Israel Sykes, son 
of Titus, was born at Suffield, Conn., May 28, 1864, and died at Dorset, Vt., March 
10, 1846, at the age of eighty-two years, having been a soldier in the Revolutionary 
war. Israel Newton Sykes, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born 
October 20, 1805. He was married in Cavendish, Vt. , to Miss Diana Gilbert, October 
19, 1831, and their golden wedding was celebrated at Dorset, Vt., at the old home 
October 19, 1881, at which celebration all their children and grandchildren were 
present. The mother was born July 11, 1809. The father followed farming the 
greater part of his early life. He filled the position of associate judge for two terms 
and the position of probate judge two terms. For a number of years past he has re- 
tired from the active duties of life, but still resides with his wife on the old homestead 
in Vermont, at the good ripe age of eighty-seven years, in the enjoyment of a comfort- 
able competency. He and his wife were the parents of seven children, five of whom 
still survive. For forty-eight years there was not a death in this family. The sub- 
ject of this sketch was reared in Bennington county, Vt., and received his education 
in the public schools and in a seminary of his native county. He remained on the 
home farm until he was twenty years of age, after which lie left home and took a 
course in Eastman's Business College of Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , following which he 
was in a brother's store in Vermont for two years during which time he obtained a 
thorough insight into the business. In 1866 he came West and located at Belvidere, 
111., where he clerked in a drug store for about nine months, then was offered a position 
of assistant cashier of the First National Bank of that place, which he accepted and 
held about eighteen months. He then made arrangements for entering mercantile 
life, and soon after formed a partnership with D. D. Sabin, in the dry goods busi- 
ness in that city, and the firm of Sabin & Sykes was continued for sixteen years. 
At the end of this time Mr. Sykes disposed of his interest to his partner and in 1884 
located in Elkhart, Ind., in connection with J. H. Yourt purchasing the dry goods 
and carpet establishment of J. F. Hunt & Company. In. December, 1890, Mr. 
Sykes purchased his partner's interest and has since continued the business alone. 
He occupies a three-story brick building, equipped with an elevator, his establish- 



160 PICTORIAL AlfD BIOGRAPHICAL 

ment being the largest in the city, and it is safe to say has the leading trade in his 
line. His is in all respects a leading and well-appointed establishment, where is 
always displayed an unusually tine and very complete assortment of every- 
thing in the lines indicated, every department being replete with the latest novelties. 
The prices quoted, too. are rock-bottom figures, and no inferior goods are allowed to 
be placed in stock, patrons being assured of receiving honest value and satisfactory 
treatment in this deservedly popular store. His business the first year amounted to 
§36,000 but has now reached the handsome figures of over 8100,000. He devoted 
one entire floor to carpets, curtains and cloaks, and a finer department in this line 
is not shown between Chicago and Cleveland. He carries a stock of from 840.000 
to §50,000, and is now employing a force of twenty salesmen and women. Mr. 
Sykes was married in June, 1869, to Miss Louise S. Avery, of Belvidere, 111., and to 
tliem four children have been born; Egbert N. ; Mary G. ; Harry B. ; and Walter A. 
Mr. Sykes is a trustee of the Presbyterian Church, of which he and his wife are 
members. 

\YiLLiAii Blue, who is endowed by nature with such gifts as characterize true 
manhood in all that the word implies, is descended from an honorable ancestry, and 
his family tree first took root on American soil in the colonial days of Virginia, to 
which region his ancestors came from England. His grandfather, Peter Blue, was 
one of the pioneers of Fayette county, Ohio, cleared a tine farm of 200 acres from 
the wilderness and there he and his wife, whose maiden name was Susan Hazel, and 
who was also born in Virginia, reared a family of eleven children: Benjamin, John, 
Abraham, Peter, Jacob, David, William, Philip, Susan, Alice and Nancy. Peter 
Blue spent his life on his farm in Ohio and died at an advanced age. Three of his 
sous, John, Peter and Jacob, were in the War of 1812. Jacob Blue, his son, was 
brought up on a farm and was married to Charlotte, daughter of David Mortimer, 
of Maryland, an early settler of Fayette county, Ohio, aud eventually of Benton 
township, Elkhart county, Ind., in which section he died. After his marriage Jacob 
Blue resided in Ohio for some years, but in 1833 settled in Elkhart county, Ind., on 
some laud which is yet in possession of his descendants. An old-fashioned family 
of ten children were born to them also: Alice, Mary. Abraham, William, Margaret, 
Jacob, Peter, David (who died young), Susan and Benjamin. Jacob Blue's farm 
was heavily covered with timber but by the exercise of all his energy he succeeded 
in clearing it from the forest and made a good home for his family. His health 
gave way, owing to the hard work he had done, and at the age of fifty-two years he 
was called from life, having been an earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church for many years, with which his wife was also connected. To such noble 
men as Mr. Blue is owing the fine agricultural condition of the country at the pres- 
ent time. William, his son, the subject of this sketch, was born on the farm in 
Fayette county, Ohio, December 27, 1824, but owing to the fact that he came to 
Elkhart county, Ind., when he was but nine years of age, he received but little 
schooling. Thev made the journey to this section by wagon and drove their cattle 
and hogs, and Mr. Blue can well remember the trip. October 1, 1846, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Eebecca Grayless who was born in Ross count}', Ohio, Februarj- 20, 
1828, daughter of William and Eebecca (Waugh) Grayless, the former of whom was 
born in Maryland and settled as a pioneer in Fayette county, Ohio, becoming a resi- 
dent of Indiana in 1833. He had a good farm of 160 acres in Allen county, on 
which he lived until his demise at the age of sixty-three years. He was a man of 
excellent moral character and was an earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. He was the father of six children who lived to mature years: Mary A., 
Elizabeth, Martha, Charles, Eebecca, Malinda and Cynthia. After his marriage 
William Blue settled on forty acres of his present farm, then covered with heavy 
timber, but his energetic efforts soon cleared this land and he continued to add to 
• it nntil he became the owner of 280 acres, 160 of which he has given to his children, 
and now has 120 acres of his own. His property has been acquired by his own 



MEMOIRS OF INDIASA. 161 

efforts and with the assistance of his worthy wife, and they now have a comfortable 
home and are surrounded with all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. 
Four of their children lived to be grown: Silas, born February 12, 1S48, married 
Emily Miller, by whom he has four children and is a farmer near Sugar Hill; 
Christiana, born April 11, 1852, married Henry A. Snyder, a farmer of this town- 
ship by whom she has one child; Lonson, born March 3, 1859, married Lizzie Wil- 
ner, by whom he has three children, and is a farmer of this township; and Benja- 
min, born June 7, 1863, is a farmer of this township, is married to Miss Mary Hauey 
and is the father of one child. All these children are settled in the immediate vicinity 
of their old home and are honorable, respectable and useful citizens of the com- 
munity. Silas has been trustee of Benton township two terms. Mr. and Mrs. Blue 
are devout members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics he is a fte- 
publican. He is a substantial farmer who has never taken part in politics, but has 
devoted his attention to clearing his land and properly bringing up his family and 
the result is greatly to his credit. He has always pursued a correct course through 
life, and for honest integrity and thrift has set a good example to his children. He 
is a thoroughly self-reliant man, but at the same time is quiet and unobstru^^ive and 
" pursues the even tenor of his way " without interfering with his neighbors' affairs 
and with no desire for public preferment. 

Alexander Dotson is a retired farmer of Elkhart county, Ind., who has fought 
the battle of life successfully, and after the burden and heat of the day, is living in 
the enjoyment of a competency which his early labors and perseverence won him. 
His advent into this world occurred in Bedford county, Penn., October 13, 1826, to 
Samuel and Sarah (Moses) Dotson, who were also born in the Keystone State, the 
father's family being of Irish origin, and the mother's of German. The paternal 
grandfather emigrated from the Isle of Erin to America at an early day and settled 
in Pennsylvania, as did also the mother's family. Samuel Dotson was an iron 
manufacturer and worked for old Dr. Shoneuberger, whose forge was in Blair 
county, Penn. He and his wife became the parents of five children that grew to 
maturity, only two members of which family are now living. Alexander was reared 
in Pennsylvania, in the subscription schools of which State he was educated. He 
helped to build the first free school house in Bedford county, Penn., at the town of 
Freedom, when eighteen years of age. He crossed the Alleghany Mountains and 
located in Venango county, Penn., where he was married in May, 1850. to Miss 
Catherine Downing, by whom he became the father of ten children, eight of whom 
survive: Samuel, Daniel, John. Charles, Mack, William, May and Nellie. In 1864 
Mr. Dotson went to the lower oil regions of Ohio by steamboat, but remained in that 
State only a short time, coming to Elkhart county, Ind., in 1865, and here purchased 
a farm of 122 acres on "Two Mile Plain," where he lived a short time, then 
removed to where he now resides, purchasing 194 acres of land north of Elkhart, 
■which he soon sold to the Hydraulic Company, with the exception of twelve acres on 
which his residence is situated and on which he is residing. This property is now 
nearly all in town lots. Mr. Dotson built the house in which he is living, and for his 
farm of 192 acres paid §11,500, but sold it six months later for $100 per acre, which 
netted him a handsome surplus. He soon after purchased 204 acres in Cleveland 
township, but after farming this land for three years sold out, and has since returned 
from active life. He is the owner of seven dwelling houses and a store building in 
Elkhart, and is in receipt of a very comfortable annual income. His second mar- 
riage was celebrated in October, 1891. to Mrs. Emeline (Yant) Courod, a native of 
Ohio, who became the mother of five children by her first husband: Edward. Hattie, 
William, Clyde C. and Floyd N. Mr. Dotson is one of the substantial citizens of 
Elkhart county, and has numerous friends who wish him well. His honesty is 
well known; his kindness of heart is recognized and his liberality and public spirit 
are unquestioned. 

John Hibe has been a resident of Elkhart county, Ind., for many years, and be- 



163 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

loQga to an old family of Pennsylvania, to which State his ancestors came from Ger- 
many in early times. The father of John Hire, Rudolph Hire, was born in the Key- 
stone State, and was there united in marriage to Annie Iman, who bore him ten 
children: Jemima, Absalom, Elizabeth, Nancy, Jesse, Mary, William, Jacob, Rudolph 
and John. Rudolph Hire removed to Ross county, Ohio, when it was a wilderness 
inhabited by various wild animals, and there he cleared a farm, made a home, and 
resided until 1832, when he moved with his family to Benton township, Elkhart Co., 
Ind., and settled on the Fort Wayne road. At that time he was over sixty j'ears of 
age, but he possessed the energy and push of a young man, and entered 160 acres 
of land vyhich his sons cleared for him. Mr. and Mrs. Hire were members of the 
Dunkard Church, and in this faith Mr. Hire died at the age of eighty-six years. 
He was a thrifty, industrious and upright man, much respected by those who kuew 
him, and was especially honored and esteemed by his own immediate family. John 
Hire, whose name is at the head of this biography, was born on a farm in Rosa 
county, Ohio, in 1817, but owing to the fact that he was compelled to labor hard 
on the farm, he did not receive much schooling, a fact he has always greatly regret- 
ted and which he has endeavored to remedy by reading and contact with the world. 
He has been a resident of Indiana since he was fifteen years of age, and here he 
was married, after reaching manhood, to Miss Mary Blue, daughter of Jacob and 
Charlotte (Mortimer) Blue, the former of whom was one of the early settlers of the 
Buckeye State. A family of twelve children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hire, 
eight of whom lived to grow to maturity: David, Eli, Malinda J., Lawsou, Abraham, 
John, William and Emma. After his marriage Mr. Hire took up his residence on 
the farm now occupied by his son William, and which was entered by his father and 
consisted of eighty acres of heavy timber land. This he cleared, after many a hard 
day's work, and as his means increased he made other purchases of real e-state until 
he became the owner of 200 acres in Benton township and 300 acres in Kosciusko 
county. He generously and thoughtfulh' assisted each of his children, when they 
started out to fight life's battles for themselves, and either presented them with 
12,000 or its equivalent in laud. His wife, who was a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, was called from life, and Mr. Hire took for his second wife Mrs. 
Mary Brown, whose maiden name was Bean, and by her he became the father of 
three children: Frank, Ray and Harry. Mr. Hire assisted largely in developing 
Elkhart county, and may well take pride in his labors, which have borne such abun- 
dant fruit. His reputation for sterling worth and honor can not be gainsaid, and 
that he is one of the honored citizens of the county is acknowledged by all. He first 
affiliated with the Democrat party, but for the last twenty-five years has been a Repub- 
lican. Two of his sons, David and Eli, served in the Civil war. The former was 
born on the home farm, January 2, 1842. and received a good common-school educa- 
tion. In 1862 he enlisted iu Company I, Seventy-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, 
as a private, and went to Indianapolis with his regiment, where he was mustered into 
the service of the United States. From there his command went to Louisville, Ky., 
from which point his regiment pursued the Confederate general, Bragg, through 
Kentucky. Succeeding this, David served in Tennessee and took part in the battles 
of Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Jonesboro, the Atlanta campaign, in which he 
marched with Sherman to the sea and was in a number of sharp skirmishes. Although 
he was sick three months at Laverne, Tenn., he would not enter the hospital, but 
remained in camp. He served his country faithfully for nearly three years, and in 
June, 1865, was mustered out of the service at Indianapolis. Ind., and returned 
home to turn his sword into a ploughshare. The following winter he attended dis- 
trict school, although he was twenty-three years of age, and on September 26, 1867, 
he was married to Rachel A., daughter of Richard D. and Mary A. (Cormany) Knox, 
her birth having occurred in Elkhart county on September 22, 1846. Richard D. 
Knox was born in Monroe county, Va., September 30, 1809. came to Elkhart county 
when a young man, and was married at Benton, April 30, 1835, his wife's birth hav- 



3rEM0IRS OP INDIANA. 163 

ing occurred in Preble county, Ohio, January 15, 1S14. Mr. Kuox opened up a 
good farm, and being a good manager, and industrious and honorable withal, his 
efforts were rewarded and he became wealthy. He and his wife were members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and became the parents of ten children: Har- 
riet A., John A., Lucinda A., Joseph T. , George D., Rachel A., Enoch, Mary 
J., Richard M. and an infant son. These children received good educations and 
three of them became school teachers, and two, John and Richard M., became physi- 
cians. Mrs. Hire was a teacher in her youthful days, but after her marriage she 
and her husband settled on a portion of the farm on which they are now residing, 
which then consisted of forty acres of land which was given Mr. Hire by his father, 
and to which, by industry and thrift, he has added until he is now the owner of 160 
acres of laud. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
in which he was class-leader and steward and is now trustee. Mr. Hire is a stanch 
Republican, politicall_v, and although public-spirited and interested in the welfare of 
his section, he is a man of quiet tastes and has always refused to hold any official 
position, although frequently urged to do so. He is a member of the G. A. R., 
Stansbury Post, No. 125, Ligonier, Ind. Three children have been born to 
himself and wife: George A., Linval J. and Nellie E. Mr. Hire is a warm friend 
of education and has given his children excellent advantages. George A. attended 
the commercial college of Angola, Steuben Co. , Ind., and Linval J. attended the 
high school of Ligonier and took a course in music in Chicago. He is a skillful vio- 
linist and is a competent teacher on that instrument. As a soldier, David Hire was 
faithful and true, and was not afraid to face rebel bullets, as he proved on many a 
hard-fought field. He did able and active service, and to such men the country 
owes the downfall of the Confederacy. 

F. J. Goldman. There is no greater pleasure for the hand and pen of the his- 
torian or biographer to perform than in recording the life and achievements of a 
man who has begun life's battles under adverse circumstances, and through his own 
unaided efforts has secured the general acknowledgment of being an honest man, a 
gentleman, and has acquired a profitable and lucrative business. Such a man is F. 
J. Goldman, one of the leading druggists of Elkhart. A native of Berks county, 
Penu., his birth occurred December 6, 1843, being one in a family of six children 
born to the marriage of John Goldman and Elizabeth Shultz, who were also natives 
of the Keystone State and of German extraction. The father was a farmer by occu- 
pation and was also engaged to a considerable extent in the manufacture of cigars. 
The subject of this biography was reared to manhood upon a farm, and in the cigar 
factory, which trade he followed at intervals during his boyhood, securing only a 
common-school education. By reason of his father's removal to Stouchsburg in 
1857, the better to carry on the manufacturing business, he readily began for him- 
self at the age of fourteen years. Commencing as a hired hand at $4 per month to 
a neighboring farmer, he continued this work for four years. Espousing the cause 
of the Union at the time of the attempted secession by the South, young Goldman 
enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer 
Infantry on August 8, 1862. Being mustered in as a private, he was immediately 
ordered to the front and participated in several skirmishes, and in these sanguinary 
engagements at Antietam and Chancellorsville, being taken prisoner at the latter 
place on May 3, 1863. He was conveyed to Richmond, was incarcerated in the 
notorious Libby Prison twenty days and then, fortunately, was paroled and 
exchanged. In the meantime his term of enlistment — nine months — had expired, 
and upon his release he found an honoralile discharge dated May 20, 1863, awaiting 
him. The object of his original enlistment not having been accomplished, he le-en- 
listed in February, 1864, and became a member of Company H, One Hundred and 
Eighty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. From that time until the complete 
subjugation of the rebels, his time was occupied in doing provost and garrison duty 
in his own State, and at the front, serving as deputy provost marshal and as United 



104 PICTORIAL AND BIOGSAPIIICAL 

States detective. His tinal discharge bears date August 15, 1865. Eealizing that 
the great West was the place for a youug mau to seek his fortune, he started for 
California, but on reaching South Beud, Ind., found it expedient to replenish his shat- 
tered financial resources, and as a means to this end he secured emplo3'meijt in a brick- 
yard, where he remained during the summer of 1866. For two years he worked at 
various occupations and demonstrated the fact that he was eminently capable of 
looking out for his own interests. In September, 1888, he entered the establishment 
of A. Huntsinger & Co., druggists, at Mishawaka, and remained in the employ of 
this tirm for four years. He then accepted a position with D. M. Coonly at South 
Beud, but in 1873 returned to Mishawaka and purchased an interest in the firm of 
A. Cass &Co., remaiuiug thus associated for three years. He then disposed of his 
interest and removed to Elkhart, where he was engaged in clerking until 1884, at 
which time he became a partner with Frank Timmis, on the southwest corner of 
Main and Franklin streets, but later purchased his partner's interest and has since 
conducted a profitable trade alone. Mr. Goldman is a Republican in politics, has 
been a member of Auten Post, No. 8, South Bend, Ind., G. A. R., since 1866, is a 
member of the brotherhood of Odd Fellows, in which he has taken all the decrees 
of the subordinate lodge and encampment, iu which he held various positions of 
honor and trust. June "29, 1871, Miss Maggie A. Stonebrook became his wife, and 
to them four children have been born: "Walker J., Royal F. , Rita M. and Harry W. 
Edwin M. Elsea is a prominent farmer of Benton township, Elkhart Co.. 
Ind., for he has inherited the love of the calling which has ever characterized his 
ancestors and has had practical experience iu this line from his youth up. His great- 
grandfather, John Elsea. was born in England and came to America before the 
Revolutionary war. in which struggle he took an active part, rising to the rank of 
captain in the colonial army, being ever afterward known as Capt. Jack Elsea. 
He married and settled in Rockingham county, Ya., near Fredericksburg, and there 
his twelve children were born: Isaac, Lewis, John, Marion, Harrie., Rachel, Re- 
becca, Margaret, Mar}% Elizabeth, the names of the other two being unknown. 
Margaret became the wife of the first editor of the Cincinnati Methodist Advocate. 
Capt. Jack Elsea lived to be quite aged and as a husbandman was very successful, 
owning a large amount of real estate, the manual labor on which was performed by 
his slaves, of which he owned a large number. He was also the owner of a fine 
flouring mill for those days. He presented his son Isaac, with a number of slaves, 
but the latter refused to hold them. Isaac was born on the old plantation in 
Virginia May 5, 1776, and was married to Matilda, daughter of John Burgess, of 
Annapolis, Md., and to them three children were born: John D. , Eveline and Mary. 
Mr. Elsea became a pioneer settler of Muskingum county, Ohio, and from that 
section he enlisted as a soldier in the War of 1812. In 1835 he settled in Jackson 
township, Elkhart Co., Ind., at which time he was quite an old man, and there 
made his home with his son-inlaw, Adam Groves, until his death, which occurred 
at the age of eighty-seven years. John D. Elsea, his son and father of the sub- 
ject of this sketch, was born in Rockingham county, Va., in 1805, and was twenty- 
two years of age when his father moved to Ohio. After residing there for some 
time he removed to Wayne county, Ind. . and there took for his life companion 
Sarah, daughter of Taleutine and Martha (McCormick) Fleahart, the former of 
whom was a farmer of Rush county, Ind. In 1831 Mr. Elsea settled in Benton 
township, Elkhart county, and two years later took up his residence on the farm on 
which the subject of this sketch is now residing. His wife bore him two daughters: 
Matilda and Martha J., but did not live to see them grow up. her death occurring 
when they were very small children. Mary, the daughter of Rudolph and Xauc_y 
(Inmau) Hire, became his second wife, and iu due course of time was the mother of 
seven children, who lived to maturity: Rudolph, Mary. James, Nancy. Elma. 
Edwin and John. Politically Mr. Elsea was a Democrat and held the offices of 
justice of the peace two years and couuty commissioner two terms. He was very 







^5^^ 




MEMOrns OF IXn/ANA. 167 

energetic and enterprising and was the first man to introduce Durham cattle into 
the county, an example that was followed by many others when it was found to be 
a paying investment. He was a man of unquestioned integrity and was made ad- 
ministrator of a number of estates. He was class leader and steward in the Meth- 
odist Church, in the doctrines of which he was a firm h>eliever and of which he was 
an earnest member, up to the time of his death, which occurred when he was fifty- 
seven years of age. He was a stanch Union man during the Civil war and sent 
one son, Rudolph H. , to tight for his country, the latter was a member of Company 
I, Seventy-fourth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in which he served six 
months as a private and died in Teane.ssee of sickness contracted while in the serv- 
ice. Edwin iL Elsea, son of John D.. was born on the old homestead in Benton 
township May 7, 1854, and in his boyhood was given the advantages of the common 
schools in the vicinity of his home, and his knowledge has since been strengthened 
and increased by reading and contact with the world and the business affairs of 
life. He was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Robert and Charlotte (Flen) 
Chatten. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Elsea has resulted in the birth of two chil- 
dren: Ray C. and Roy H. (^twins), V.)orn August 5, 1881. Mr. Elsea is the owner of 
145 acres of land and is a progressive and enterprising tiller of the soil. He is a 
deservedly popular man and is well known for his integrity and general intelligence, 
which renders him a leader in enterprises which are brought before the public. 
He is a Democrat politically. The Elseas have resided on the farm on which Edwin 
M. is residing for over fifty years. 

Alexandeb Gordon. Alexander Gordon, one of the best known and most pro- 
gressive farmers of Elkhart county, is a native of Westmoreland county, Penn.,born 
January 20, 1828. John Gordon, his father, was a native of the Keystone State, a 
farmer by occu[)ation. although for a number of years he operated a wool-cariling 
machine. He married Nancy Hamilton for his first wife, who died after bearing a 
large family of children; he then married Mrs. Eleanor Johnson, whose maiden 
name was McWilliams, a widow with four children, and by her became the father 
of six children, the subject of this sketch being the youngest. Alexander Gordon, 
at the age of eight years, was left fatherless, and the family in destitute circum- 
stances because of the liberality of the father in accommodating his friends bv going 
security. Practicnlly at this age he began struggling with adversity for the pur- 
pose of securing to himself and others the comforts of home. His youth and early 
manhood were passed as a farm laborer, the wages received rarely e.\cefeding $8 per 
month. While yet in his teens he found employment in the lumber regions of 
northwestern Pennsylvania, and later was engaged in that business upon his own 
responsibility. To those who never experienced the actual life of a lumberman, 
that career does not seem to be any more filled with hardships than many others; 
but such was not the case in those days. After swinging the ax day after day in 
the forest, the timber would be taken to the river, lashed together and rafted to the 
markets of Pittsburg, Cincinnati, Louisville and other points, the workers being 
exposed to the fury of the prevailing storms. It required men of e.xcellent phys- 
ique and constitution to do this work, and men of brain, grit and determination to 
make it a success. Until 1872 Mr. Gordon continued this business and bv the 
hardest of work accumulated a fair competency. Desiring to give his children 
better educational advantages than he had, he sold his lumber interests advantage- 
ously, moved to Elkhart county, lud., in the year atjove stated, and purchasing a 
tract of land engaged in agricultural pursuits. The county has ever since been his 
home and farming his occupation, except for the past six years he has resided in the 
city of Elkhart, and besides his beautiful home, he is the owner of about 400 acres 
of land in this county and 550 acres in Emmett county, Iowa. Mr. Gordon's edu- 
cational advantages were very limited being confined to times when he could secure no 
work and when he possessed suitable and sufficient clothing. Inheriting the combat- 
ive nature of the Irish, and the high principles of integrity and industryof the Scotch 



168 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

from hig ancestors, he has applied both, notoaly ia the acoumulation of tliis world's 
goo.ls, but in securiag a fair ediicatioa by extended readings. In Elkhart county, 
where he is best known, Mr. Gordon coiuiuaads universal respect for his honesty 
and morality, and is justly conceded as a maa of more than ordinary information 
and good judgment. In every sense of the word he is a self-made man. First a 
Whig in politics, he became a Republican iu 1856 and has since affiliated with that 
party. While a man of strong convictions, he recognizes errors in his party and so 
far as he is able strives to rectify them. The temperance cause has in him a warm 
advocate, and he believes it would be for the best to absolutely abolish the traffic in 
liquor as a beverage. While a man of much liberality, he confines his munificence 
to objects of education, Christianity and morality. Mr. Gordon was married 
August 20, 1857, to Miss Mary Jane McBride and to their union eight children 
have been born: Allen Hamilton, Albert Addison, Mary Jane (deceased), Margaret 
(deceased), Alexander, Addie Greene, Alice Alabama and William Grant. Mr. 
Gordon is an Encampment degree Odd Fellow, and while a member of no church 
organization is a Unitarian in belief. 

Joseph Stiver, Benton, Ind. The prudent ways and careful methods of the 
Teutonic farmer are conspicuous in Elkhart county, where so manj' representatives 
of the German race have settled, and Joseph Stiver is no exception to the rule. 
The early members of his family were residents of Wurtemburg, Germany, and the 
original spelling of the name was Stoefer. A Lutheran minister of the name immi- 
grated to America about 1712 and settled in Lancaster county, Penn., and was said 
to have been the first minister of that denomination to settle within the borders of 
" Penn's Woodland." He reared a family of children, and spent the rest of his days 
in the land of his adoption. Casper Stiver, his son, was a babe when his parents 
brought him to American shores, but there he grew to sturdy and honorable manhood 
and was an active participant throughout the Revolutionary war. He rose to the rank 
of captain and was very active in furnishing provisions for the Continental army, 
the supplies lieing hauled to the army by his sons. He married in Pennsylvania, 
bat afterward became a pioneer settler of Montgomery county, Ohio, in which 
region he took up his residence as early as 1806, having come down the Ohio river 
on a flat boat and landing at Cincinnati. The family prospered and became wealthy, 
and in Ohio, as well as Pennsylvania, they were substantial and representative farm- 
ers. John Stiver, son of Casper, was born in Pennsylvania, and was married there 
to Miss Wolf, who bore him the following children: Frederick, Michael. Samuel, 
Eli, Barbara, Susannah, Elizabeth and Catherine. When the family removed to 
Ohio, John Stiver was among the number, and in Montgomery county the remainder 
of his days were spent on a fine farm of 500 acres. He died at the age of eighty- 
three years, having followed the occupation of saw-milling in connection with farm- 
ing. His son, John B. Stiver, was born in Dauphin county, Penn., in 1804, and 
was only two years of age when taken to Ohio. Owing to the very poor school 
facilities of that day he obtained only a limited education, the most of his youthful 
days being devoted to tilling the soil and operating a saw-mill. Upon reaching 
manhood he led to the hymeneal altar Miss Catherine Bickel, daughter of Jacob 
Bickel, her mother being a Wilhelm. Their union resulted in the birth of four 
children; Susan, Barbara, Jonathan, and Joseph, the subject of this biography. 
After his marriage, which occurred when he was about twenty-five years of age, he 
settled in Montgomery county, Ohio, but became dissatisfied with his location, and 
about 1837 moved to Indiana and located on a tract of timber land in Clinton town- 
ship. Elkhart county, which he cleared and converted into a fine farm. The land 
which he devoted to the culture of agricultural products amounted to about 100 
acres, but he owned sixty acres of timber land besides. On this farm he " pursued 
the even tenor of his way," and thus assisted in settling and improving two new 
counties. Politically a Democrat, he was much respected and helped to organize 
the township of Clinton. He was an honorable and substantial citizen, and his 



MEMOIRS OF IXDI.LN'A. 169 

death, which occurred at the age of sixty-five years, was regretted by all who had 
the honor of his acquaintance. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, and his 
wife of the German Reformed Church. Joseph Stiver, their son, whose name heads 
this sketch, was born in Clinton township, March 4, 1842, his youth being spent in 
attending the common schools and assisting his father on the home farm. After 
attaining a suitable age he began teaching school, which occupation he followed for 
some time, or until his marriage to Catherine, daughter of William and Elizabeth 
(Boomershine) Culp. About five years after his marriage Mr. Stiver settled on his 
present farm of 118 acres in Benton township, which at that time was partially 
cleared, and has since made many improvements in the way of clearing his land and 
erecting buildings. He has a fine residence, barns, etc., and his home, one of the 
pleasantest in the township, bears evidence of culture and refinement. Mr. and 
Mrs. Stiver have three children: Saloma P., who was a graduate of the University of 
Heidelburg, Tiffin, Ohio, is now a successful teacher in the graded schools of Goshen; 
Alice E. who attended school at Goshen, and is teaching in the public school at 
Benton, and Hershy A. Mr. Stiver is a public-spirited citizen, is a stanch supporter 
of the public school system, and is warmly in favor of public improvement. He is 
a Democrat politically, and he and his wife are members of the Reformed Church 
of the United States. Members of the Stiver family are scattered all over the west- 
ern country, and are numbered among the foremost citizens of the localities in 
which they reside. They were soldiers in the Civil war, and for years a newspaper 
has been conducted at Harrisburg, Penn., of which a Stiver has been the editor. 
William Culp, the father of Mrs. Stiver, is one of the old settlers of Benton town- 
ship, but was born in Pennsylvania. His father, Conrad Culp, was born and married 
in Berks county, Penn., and was the father of two children, Mariah and Henry. 
He was a farmer, and finally settled in Northumberland county, Penn., where he 
owned a good farm of 200 acres. He and his wife were members of the German 
Reformed Church. He lived to be eighty years of age, having been a substantial 
farmer and an upright citizen. His son, Henry, father of William, was born in 
Berks county, Penn. , and married Saloma, daughter of Henry Koler, their union 
resulting in the birth of eight children: Peter, Samuel, William, Benjamin, Henry, 
Hettie, Charles and Sarah. The father of these children settled on the old home- 
stead in Northumberland county, Penn. , where he died at the age of forty-three 
years. He was very industrious and helped to clear a good farm there, was very 
pious and was a member of the German Reformed Church. His wife was a 
Lutheran. Their son, William, was born on the old home farm in Northumberland 
county, January 17, 1819, was reared to the life of a farmer, aud received a com- 
mon-school education. He was married in Montgomery county, Ohio, at the age of 
twenty-five years, to Elizabeth, daughter of Abraham and Catherine (Cook) Boomer- 
shine, who became the parents of nine children: Henry, Abraham, Michael, Lewis, 
Daniel, William F., Elizabeth, Catherine and Sarah. Abraham Boomershine became 
the owner of a fine farm, on which he died at the age of eighty-seven years. After 
his marriage William Culp resided one year in Montgomery county, Ohio, but in the 
fall of 1845 settled on his present farm in Indiana, which then consisted of eighty 
acres of timber land, on which he built a log cabin and by hard labor eventually 
cleared. By diligence and thrift he has become the owner of 180 acres. To Mr. 
aud Mrs. Culp five children were born: Abraham, William H., Catherine, Sarah A. 
and Elizabeth S. Mr. Culp has been an elder in the German Reformed Church 
for many years, aud in his political views is a Democrat. He is a public- spirited 
and upright citizen, and has the good will aud respect of all who know him. 

W. F. WicKwiRE deserves special mention in this work from the fact that he is 
one of the oldest business men of Elkhart, Ind., and an industrious and shrewd 
man of affairs. He was born in Connecticut, near Long Island Sound, in New 
London county, March 25, 1828, aud is the only one living of three sons and six 
daughters and is the youngest born of Willard and Theoda (Chapel) Wickwire, the 



170 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

former of whom was a farmer by occupation, aud so far as is known those of that 
name have followed agricultural pursuits. Connecticut, the land of his nativity, 
was also the place of his rearing. His educational advantages were limited to the 
common school and was more on the practical order than otherwise. Until about 
eio-hteen years of age he assisted in the work on the home farm, then, disregarding 
his father's advice to go to an academy to school, he went to New London and 
embarked in the butchering business, where he remained five years, and later con- 
tinued the same business at Norwich six years. In 1857 he started west to Mich- 
igan on a visit to relatives, with the expectation of remaining only a short time, but 
remained eleven months, during which time he imbibed such a favorable opinion of 
the country that upon returning to the East he remained there only a short time, 
when he again shouldered his grip-sack and started West, his mind being taken up 
with the possibilities of western life, and here he determined to make his future 
home. In May, 185S, he accordingly returned to Lawton, Mich., at which place 
he opened a hotel which he conducted three years, then took up his residence in 
Elkhart, and ever since June, 1861, he has resided on the southeast corner of Jack- 
son and Second streets, where he has kept the well-known hostelry known as the 
Elkhart House. It is altogether likely that there is not another case on record in 
the history of Elkliart when any of her business men have continued in the same 
place, at tlie same business and the same length of time as Mr. Wickwire, and but very 
few business men are now engaged in active pursuits that were here when he came. 
While Mr. Wickwire has never made any boasts that his house is equal to the Palmer 
House, of Chicago, yet his thirty-one years of successful business has pronounced 
him and his house in the category of A No. 1 country hotels. While taking no 
active part in politics he has always read and kept posted as to the news of the 
day, has served in local positions of trust, and is a Democrat. Besides his town 
property he owns land in Cleveland and Osolo townships amounting to 1124 acres. 
He was married in 1850 to Miss Myra A. Church, and by her he is the father of one 
son, Frank W. Besides this son Mr. and. Mrs. W^ickwire have two adopted 
daughters. 

Jesse D. Vail is a prominent pioneer of Benton township, Elkhart Co., lud. , 
and is a direct descendant of a family that dates back to the early settlement of the 
Middle States, some of its members being well-known and sterling men of affairs, 
who have made records for themselves in business life. His remote ancestors came 
from Wales and settled in Long Island, and two of the founders of the family in this 
country reared families. They were Quakers, aud took advantage of the liberal and 
noble offer made to all religious sects by W'illiam Penn, and decided to seek a home 
in American wilds. One of the brothers eventually settled in New York State, 
while the other one removed to New Jersey, and there founded the family of which 
the subject of this sketch is a descendant. Samuel Tail, the great-grandfather of 
Jesse D., was bom in New Jersey, on Bound Brook near Plaintield, where he owned 
a farm, reared a family and died. His son, Abraham, was born on this farm near 
Plainfield, about 1743, was reared to the life of a farmer, and in the State of New 
Jersey was married to Margaret Randolph, a cousin of the noted John Randolph, of 
Roanoke, the American statesman. To Mr. and Mrs. Vail seven children were 
born: Benjamin, Robert, Stephen, Samuel, Taylor. Mercy and Catherine. Event- 
ually Mr. Vail became the owner of 300 acres of laud in Fayette county, Penn., 
which was what was called a "tomahawk right," and was purchased by him second- 
handed, he receiving a patent from the Government. He cleared this land and lived 
on the same for many years, until his house was burned down in March, 1833. 
His wife died at the age of eighty years, and the last six years of his life were spent 
with his son Samuel, his demise occurring in 1839, at the advanced age of ninety- 
six years. His farm is still in the possession of his grandsons. James and Oliver, 
children of Taylor Vail. Mr. Vail was a Quaker, a substantial farmer, a respected 
man of great integrity of character, and until he was eighty years of age was sue- 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIANA. 171 

cessfully engaged in the tilling of the soil. When in his prime he possessed a fine 
physique and was very strong and vigorous. A physician was never called in to 
attend him until he was over eighty, at which time he was badly hurt by falling 
from a horse. His son Samuel was born on the old farm near Plainfield, N. J., and 
as his youth was devoted to the tilling of the soil he had but few advantages for 
acquiring an education. At the age of nineteen years he went with bis father to 
Fayette county, Peun., and was married in Washington county to Agnes, daughter 
of Joseph and Agnes Griswold, the former of whom was a farmer of that county, 
and died a comparatively young man. After marriage Samuel Vail and wife settled 
on a farm adjoining that of the former's father who gave him $1,500, his wife, Agnes, 
having an equal amount. With their $3,000, 260 acres of land was bought, and on 
this they resided the rest of their natural lives and reared a family of nine children: 
Charles, Priscilla, Mercy, Hannah, Joel, Jesse, Abraham (who died at the age of live 
years), Margaret (who died a married woman) and Martha (who died at the age of 
four years). Samuel Vail was a substantial farmer, respected by the people, and 
held many township ofQces. He and his wife were devout adherents of the Quaker 
Church, and Mrs. Vail was a preacher of that faith, regularly appointed. She was a 
woman who wielded much influence in church affairs, but her career was cut short 
at the age of thirty-eight years, when just in the zenith of her usefulness. After 
her death Mr. Vail married her cousin Elizabeth, daughter of Edward Griswold, 
and to this union four children were given: Edward, Agnes, Abraham and Lydia. 
Mr. Vail lived to the patriarchal age of ninety-four years, which was no doubt owing 
to the strictly temperate and healthful life that he led, as he did not inherit a very 
rugged constitution. He was noted for his great honesty, his simplicity of char- 
acter, his faithfulness to his convictions, his loyaltj' to his friends, and for his affec- 
tions and consideration in the family circle. He was an old line Whig in politics. 
Jesse D. Vail, his son, was born in Fayette county, Penn., March 31, 1814, in the 
common schools of which county he received a fair education, which was afterward 
greatly improved by contact with the world and the business affairs of life. He was 
reared a farmer, and worked for his father until he was twenty-three years of age, 
but in the spring of 1837 came to Indiana, passing through Buffalo during the 
great financial panic of that year, and witnessed the suspension of the banks, May 7. 
He had purchased a stock of general merchandise in Philadelphia, in company with 
his brother Charles, and upon reaching Elkhart county they located at Benton on 
May 15, 1837, where they conducted a general store for two years under the firm 
name of C. D. & J. D. Vail. C. D. Vail sold his share of the goods to James Banta, 
and the firm was then Vail & Banta. These gentlemen purchased a stock of goods 
owned by Albert Banta, but at the end of two years, owing to the financial panic of 
1837—41, they were obliged to discontinue business, as there was so little money in 
circulation. Mr. Vail then borrowed money and bought 171 acres of land, which is 
now a part of his present farm. This was school land, and he lived on it two years 
and cleared a part of it. When in Fayette county, Penn., he had married, August 
24, 1838, Miss Elma Cope, who was born in 181(5, a daughter of Samuel and Sarah 
(Willits) Cope, and to them five children were given: Melissa and Margaret (who 
died in infancy), Samuel, Sarah and Lewis. In 1843 Mr. Vail returned to Pennsyl- 
vania with his family, and for about sis years resided on a farm. In 1849 he 
returned to Benton township, Elkhart county, Ind., to his land, which he at once 
set about clearing and improving, and through industry and perseverance has made 
it a model farm. He has added to it at different times until he now owns 215 acres, 
all of which is very finely improved. Mr. Vail was county commissioner from 
December, 1860, until the fall of 1865, and has ever been a strong Republican in 
politics. His father was a strong Abolitionist and his house was a station on the 
Underground Railroad, where he used to assist slaves to reach their goal — Canada. 
Jesse D. Vail was a strong Union man during the war, and was a member of the 
military board and assisted to raise men and money to carry on the war. He was 



1T2 PICTORIAL AND BIOCrliAPHICAL 

enrolling officer in bis township, and at one time helped to raise $11,500. He was 
a member of the Republican Central Committee of Elkhart county for twenty-four 
years, and for many years has been a delegate to every Republican State convention, 
and was one of thefounders of the party in this county. After the death of his wife 
he was married to Miss Emily, daughter of Jesse and Nancy (Stevens) Coldren, the 
mother a direct descendant of Thaddeus Stevens. This wife died thirteen months 
after their marriage, and for his third wife Mr. Vail took Mrs. Sarah Prickett, 
daughter of Peter and Isabel (Jackson) Diddy, the former of whom was an old pio- 
neer' of this county, and settled at Two Mile Plain, on the St. Joe River, in 1829. 
He was a very prosperous farmer, and was one of the first associate judges in the 
county. Mr." Vail's third wife bore him two children: Elma, who died at the age of 
three years, and Emily. He has given all his children good educational advantages, 
and his youngest daughter has just graduated at the graded school of Goshen; 
Samuel C. attended college at South Bend; Lewis W. attended Erlham College at 
Richmond, Ind. Mr. Vail is now approaching eighty years, with mental faculties 
unimpaired, is erect in stature, and his eyes are yet clear and undimmed. The man 
himself is richer and nobler and grander for the experiences that each successive 
decade has brought him, and personally is one of the most popular of men, his 
amiable disposition and courteous manner endearing him to all who are so fortunate 
as to enter the wide circle of his friendship. 

Silas Baldwin, deceased, was a native of East Bloomfield, N. J., his birth occur- 
ring September 23, 1811, and was one iu a family of three sons and six daughters 
born to the marriage of David S. Baldwin and Elizabeth Kent. In 1821 the family 
moved from New Jersey to a place near Pittsburg, Penn., from where they removed 
two years later, to Warren county, Ohio. The following interesting account of 
their moving farther westward is taken from the history of Cass county, Mich: 
David S. Baldwin and his two sons, Silas and Josephus, left Warren county, Ohio, 
in March, 1828, for what was then known as the St. Joseph country, and arrived in 
April, camping on the south-west corner of Beardsley Prairie. They found food for 
both man and beast very scarce and had to resort to felling trees for brouse for the 
cattle, and to the woods and streams for food for themselves. They brought with 
them one horse, three yoke of cattle, one cart loaded with provisions, camp equipage, 
breaking plow, log chains, axes, iron wedges, etc. The weather, while on the 
journey, was so wet and cold, the roads so bad, and traveling so very disagreeable 
that their progress was greatly retarded. Through St. Mary's Swamps they made 
but three milea per day. There was only one house between Fort Wayne and Ben- 
ton at which place they found the Elkhart River so badly swollen from long con- 
tinued rains that a cauoe had to be dug out of a white wood tree before they could 
cross. The two sons, Silas and Josephus, then fifteen and sixteen years old respect- 
ively, after remaining until June, returned to Ohio, their outfit consisting of one 
horse which they rode alternately, a supply of provisions and a five dollar bill. In 
the fall of 1830 the boys came back with the rest of the family. Silas removed to 
Elkhart in April, 1843. He was a lieutenant iu the Black Hawk war and his rem- 
iniscences of that struggle are well worth publication. Prior to coming to Elkhart 
Mr. Baldwin followed merchandising at Edwardsburg, Mich., and then, on the 15th 
of February, 1837, he wedded Miss Jane Gephart. For a number of years he 
followed mercantile pursuits in Elkhart and was twice burned out. He was post- 
master from 1844 to 1848 and was then succeeded by the late Hon. B. L. Daven- 
port. In 1850 he took an active part in the struggle for the passage of the Michigan 
Southern (now the Lake Shore) Railroad through the county, acted as agent for the 
company in securing the right of way from Baugo to Bristol, collected the subscrip- 
tions himself, and upon the completion of the road was made the first station agent 
at Elkhart. In 1856 he became interested in the Elkhart Bank, but later, with his 
associates, organized the First National Bank of which he was elected cashier. Ill 
health compelled his resignation a number of years later and from that time on was 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 173 

practically retired from active busiaess pursuits, confining his attention in looking 
after his varied interests. Beginning life's battle a poor boy, he selected honesty, 
industry and frugality as his guide, and by strict adherence to these principles 
acquired an honored name, a spotless reputation and a fair competency of this 
world's goods. In his early career he was what is termed an old " Jacksonian Dem- 
ocrat," but his political views changed with the assault upon Fort Sumter, and he 
ever afterward was identified with the Republican party and its principles. His 
life's labors were supplemented by the aid of an intelligent and devoted wife, who 
yet survives him. To Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin four children were born as follows: 
Helen Jane, who died July 24, 1865, the wife of Col. John W. Shaffer; Frank J., 
killed at the battle of Stone River when only eighteen j-ears of age, being at that 
time a lieutenant in the Union army, a rank he had attained b}' distinguished gal- 
lantry; Edwin A., who died in infancy; and Elizabeth F., now Mrs. A. K. Beards- 
ley, of Elkhart. Mr. Baldwin died May 22, 1889. The following appropriate lines 
were taken from a local paper containing a notice of his death: 

" He has done the work of a true man; 
CYown him, honor him, love him; 
Weep over him tears of woman; 
Stoop manliest brows above him.'' 

Henry Geisinger. The history of Elkhart county, Ind. , is filled with the deeds 
and doings of self-made men, and no man residing therein is more deserving the 
appellation than Mr. Geisinger, for he marked out his own career in youth, and has 
steadily followed it up to the present time; has grasped at all opportunities for 
bettering his financial and social condition, and as a natural result soon found him- 
self on a smooth sea and floating with a prosperous tide. He is well known in the 
section in which he resides, and the respect that is accorded him is but a natural 
tribute to his merit. He is descended from a substantial German family that set- 
tled in Bucks county, Penn., in which section Jacob Geisinger, the grandfather of 
the subject of this sketch, became a well-to-do farmer. He was married there and 
became the father of sis children: Henrv, Philip, Betsey, Polly and Barbara, and 
one whose name can not be recalled. He removed with his family to Markham 
township. Upper Canada, now Ontario, where he cleared a farm, on which he resided 
until he met an untimely death by the falling of a tree. He was a member of the 
Mennouite Church, follower of Simon Menuon, and while in Germany had been per- 
secuted ou account of his religion and fled to the asylum that had been provided by 
William Penn in the wilds of America. He was a non-combatant during the Rev- 
olutionary war, and owing to his religious belief, would not take up arms, but 
nevertheless was loyal to the King of England, and after the termination of that 
war, like many other Loyalists or Tories, he removed to Canada, and was granted a 
tract of laud by the King for his loyalty. His son, Henry, father of the subject of 
this sketch, was born in Bucks county, Penn. , and in his earl_v boyhood removed to 
Canada with his father, where he grew to manhood, and was united in marriage 
with Miss Elizabeth Curts, a native of Bucks county, Penn., and of German descent, 
whose family left Pennsylvania at the same time as did the Geisiugers. They 
became the parents of fifteen children, all of whom lived to grow up except one, 
and the following are the members of this large family: Jacob, John, Henry, 
Samuel, Daniel, David, Joseph, Susan, Barbara, Polly, Nancy, Elizabeth, Cath- 
erine, Fannie and Sarah. In 1827 the father of these children returned to the 
States and settled in Medina county, Ohio, where he bought 160 acres of land, 
which, by hard work and good management, he eventually cleared from timber and 
brush. He died at the advanced age of eighty-six years, having reared his family 
in the belief of the Mennonite Church. He acquired a comfortable competency, 
and being public-spirited, enterprising and honest, be had a very extended circle of 
friends and acquaintances. Henry Geisinger, whose name heads this sketch, was 
born in Markham township. Upper Canada, January 25, 1815, and was twelve years 



174 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPUICAL 

of age when he came to Ohio with his parents. Like the majority of farmers' boys 
in those early times, he received but few advantages for acquiring an education, 
but during the two months that he attended the common schools of the Buckeye 
State he learned to read and write, and acquired a slight knowledge of arithmetic. 
Like a dutiful son he cheerfully assisted his father on the home farm until he was 
twenty-one years of age, and after starting out for himself learned the trade of car- 
penter. He was married in Wayne county, Ohio, on August 31, 1839, to Miss 
Mary Garber, who was born in Lancaster county, Penn., September 1, 1814, 
daughter of Jacob Garber, farmer of Wayne county, Ohio, who lived to an advanced 
age. Mr. and Mrs. Geisinger's union resulted in the birth of the following children: 
Fannie, boru in Wayne count}-, July 22, 1840; Mariah, born in Wayne county, 
November 20, 1842; Anna, also born there April 3, 1845; Luciuda, a native of that 
county, boru June 11, 1847; Sarah, born in Medina county, Ohio, March 30, 1850; 
Henry, born in Medina county May 28, 1852; Catherine, born in Elkhart count}', 
Ind., May 27, 1855, and David, born in Elkhart county, May 10, 1858. After his 
marriage Mr. Geisinger resided in Wayne county and worked at his trade for six 
years, after which he moved to Medina county and bought 120 acres of land, heav- 
ily covered with timber, which he partly cleared before selling it in 1852. In the 
fall of that year he came to Elkhart county, Ind., and settled on the laud ou which 
he is now residing, at which time there were only fifteen acres cleared. He cleared 
the remainder himself, and through industry was at one time the owner of 240 acres 
of fine land. He is in good circumstances, has beeu identified with the progress 
and development of Elkhart county, and has met with substantial results in the 
conduct of his affairs. His good name is above reproach, and he possesses those 
traits of character which mark the honorable business man, the progressive and 
public-spirited citizen, and the kind, considerate and faithful family man. He is a 
member of the Mennonite Church of which his wife, who died on March 14, 1867, 
was also a member. 

David Berket. The remote ancestor of this family came from Switzerland to 
America at a very early date and settled in Berks county, Penn., where they were 
engaged in tilling the soil. The paternal grandfather of our subject left Berks 
county and settled in Somerset county, Penn., where he reared his family of seven 
children: John, Peter, Tobias, David, Fannie, Anna and Jacob. Berkey was one 
of the early settlers there and owned a good farm on which his death occurred. 
In religion he was a Mennonite. His sou, John Berkey, was born on the old 
homestead in Somerset county, and like the average country boy, received his educa- 
tion in the common schools. When starting out for himself, young Berkey selected 
agricultural pursuits as his calling in life and married Miss Aunie Berkeypile, 
daughter of Andy Berkeypile, a farmer of Somerset county, who reared a large 
family of children, most of whom lived to be very old people. John Berkey settled 
on a farm four miles south of Johnstown, Cambria Co. , Penn., shortly after bis 
marriage, and on this he aud his worthy companion jsassed the remainder of their 
days. Six children were born to his first union, as follows: Jacob, Mary, Eva, 
Peter, David and Fannie. After the death of his wife, Mr. Berkey did not wish to 
remain on the large farm, consisting of 700 acres, and the children were brought 
up principally by relatives, except Peter, who remained with his father. Mr. 
Berkey went to reside at Johnstown and there invested in a bridge crossing Stony 
River into Johnstown, where he kept the toll house for many years. Soon after 
settling in Johnstown he married Miss Elizabeth Ebbert, aud two children were born 
to them: Chauncy and Clara. Mr. Berkey lived to be fifty-three years of age and 
died in Johnstown. He was a devout member of the Christian Church. His first 
wife was a member of the Lutheran Church and his last wife a Baptist in religion 
views. Mr. Berkey was a mau of great integrity and for many years was judge of 
the elections. Thus he was called Judge Berkey. In politics he was an old line 
Whig. His children became honorable and respected men and women, and worthy 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 175 

citizens of any community in which they settled. His sou, Peter, was well edu- 
cated and is now a wealthy banker of St. Paul, Minn., and one of the leading men. 
Another son, Jacob, became a Dunkard preacher and came to Elkhart county, Ind., 
about 1845. He was here made a preacher and assigned to a part of the district 
of Dainel Cripe, who was the original founder of the Dunkard Church in northern 
Indiana. James Tracy, another pioneer preacher, was associated with him. Jacob 
Berkey carried on his ministeral duties here many years, and then moved to Texas, 
where he was aceidently drowned. David Berkey, son of John, and the subject of 
this sketch, first saw the light of day October 14, 1824, in Somerset county, Penn. 
(now Cambria. count}'), and received, all told, about four mouths' schooling. He 
became familiar with agricultural pursuits at an early age, and in the fall of 1843, 
when about twenty years of age, came to Indiana. He bought an ax and engaged in 
clearing in this and La Grange counties, continuing this for two years and thus ac- 
cumulating some means. On the 5th of February, 1846, he married Miss Elizabeth 
Bonner, a native of Ross county, Ohio, born near Washington Court-house, April 
27, 1825, and the daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Imen) Bonner. Solomon 
Bonner was born in Virginia and was of Irish descent. He was married lirst in 
Virginia, and by this wife was the father of four children: Susannah, born Decem- 
ber 6, 1799; Henry, born June 15, 1802; Chloe, born April 10, 1804, and Enoch, 
born March 14, 1806. This wife died in Virginia, and Mr. Bonner went to Ross 
county, Ohio; settled in the wilderness, and was there married to Miss Elizabeth 
Imen who bore him these children: Ethlinda, born March 14, 1811; Moses, born 
August 28, 1813: Catherine, born June 28, 1815; Hannah, born October 20, 1816; 
Solomon, born May 13, 1819; Abijah, born April 13, 1821; Rebecca, born March 27, 
1823, and Elizabeth, who was born April 27, 1825, as given above. Solomon 
Bonner died in 1851, when seventy-seven years of age, on his farm in the township 
where our subject now lives. He was a soldier in the "War of 1812, and a pioneer 
farmer of Ross county, Ohio, where he owned a good farm. Later he came to 
Elkhart count}', Ind., and settled on the farm now owned by our subject. This was 
in 1832 and he moved his family with a horse and wagon and drove cattle and hogs. 
He was a member of the Dunkard Church and a man of great honesty and respecta- 
bility. After marriage David Berkey and wife settled in Elkhart Prairie; remained 
there two years, and then moved to a farm now owned by John Myers, in Clinton 
township, where they made their home for ten years. Mr. Berkey then bought the 
old homestead of Eliza Bonner and has since resided on this. Three children were 
born to them: Peter, born April 28, 1847; Mary J., born September 24, 1848, and 
Martha A., born August 28, 1850. Like many others, Mr. Berkey went to Cali- 
fornia in 1850, to search for gold, and with a party from his neighborhood crossed 
the plains with teams. They were six months on the way, and Mr. Berkey remained 
there about eighteen months, meeting with good returns. Mr. and Mrs. Berkey are 
members of the Baptist Church, and he has assisted with his means to support his 
church and in building the Dunkard Church in his township. His son, Peter, 
married Miss Lydia Stutzman and is the father of ten children. He is a substantial 
farmer near St. Paul, Minn. Mary J. married James Riley, of Goshen, Ind., agri- 
cultural implement business, and they have three children. Martha A. married 
Henry C. Dewey, of Goshen, and they have five children. 

Jonathan R. Mather. The family of which the subject of this sketch is a 
representative, is one of the oldest and best known in this country; and, unlike the 
majority of American families, they have carefully preserved their history which is 
recorded and published in book form. The progenitor in this country was the Rev. 
Richard Mather, born in 1596 in Lancashire, England; he was an Episcopal minis- 
ter, but was silenced as an uuconformist. He immigrated to the colonies in 1635, 
landing at Boston, August 17, where be became pastor of the Old North Church. 
After his death he was succeeded in his pastorate by h<s son, the Rev. Increase 
Mather, and he, in turn, by his son, the Rev. Cotton Mather, These were men far 



176 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

above the average in point of intelligence and learning; were well-known in New 
England States, and were famous for their piety and their valuable contributions 
to the church and general literature of the day. Rev. Increase Mather was dele- 
gated by the colony of Massachusetts to go to England for the purpose of procuring 
a new charter. He was invited to dine with the reigning Queen, a courtesy rarely 
accorded, and so successfully did he perform his mission that upon his return a 
meeting for rejoicing and thanksgiving was held. Rev. Cotton Mather became 
noted in historj' during the witchcraft period and his name became almost as 
familiar as a household word. Rev. Richard Mather was the father of sis sons, 
two of them returning to England, one became preacher to the lord mayor of Lon- 
don and the other preacher to the lord mayor of Dublin. The other four sons 
were preachers also. The heads of families, in a direct line of descent from Rev. 
Richard Mather to and including the immediate subject of this memoir, are as fol- 
lows: Timothy, Dr. Samuel, Rev. Nathaniel, Increase, Nathaniel, Samuel, Jona- 
than and Jonathan R. The name of Increase is a common one with the Mathers 
and was originally obtained because of the rapid increase and growth of the colony 
of Massachusetts, and one of this name was for a long time president of Harvard 
College. Members of the family have been noted as ministers, and their names are 
found as efficient soldiers and officers in the Revolutionary war, the War of 1812, 
the war with Mexico and the war of secession, and many have achieved fame in let- 
ters and as authors of note. Jonathan Mather was a farmer of Orange county, N. 
T. ; was prominently identified there in local matters, and for a wife wedded Anna 
Bishop, who bore him ten children, eight of whom grew to maturity, and only one 
of whom is now living. This one is Jonathan R. Mather, of Elkhart, Ind. The 
father came to Elkhart county in 1860 and died in December of the same year. One 
of his sons, David B., settled at Middlebury, in 1837, was a farmer and a famous 
auctioneer, and was sheriff of the county. Another son, Joseph, came to the county 
in 1842 when seventeen years old, read law and was admitted to practice when 
nineteen; was elected prosecuting attorney at twenty-one, was a member of the 
State Constitutional Convention of 1852 and at the time of his death in 1859 was judge 
of this judicial district. Jonathan R. Mather was born May 25, 1821, in Orange 
county, N. Y. , and resided there until 1856. He secured but a common-school edu- 
cation, was reared on the farm, and January 13, 1849, was united in marriage with 
Miss Jane, daughter of James D. and Naomi Swortwout. In 1846, and again in 
1858, he visited Elkhart county, and in 1859 moved to a farm two miles east of 
Elkhart, where he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. After about seven 
years' stay there he sold his farm at an increased price, reinvested his means inland, 
moved to the city of Elkhart and has since made this his home. In 1853, owing to 
unfortunate circumstances, having been burned out, Mr. Mather was 85,000 in debt. 
His determination to meet all just debts and make life an honor has been crowned 
with success in everv sense of the word and he has the satisfaction of knowing that 
this state of things has been brought about entirely through his own exertions. 
Mr. Mather has been active in promoting the best interests of his community. He 
was instrumental in procuring the grounds upon which the shops of the Lake Shore 
& Michigan Southern Railway were built. He is a Republican, has served in various 
local positions of trust, but prefers confining his attention to his varied business 
interests to that of an official career. He and his wife belong to the Presbyterian 
Church and are the parents of four children: Sarah (born May 18, 1853, wedded 
Edward Fieldhouse, who died in 1873; remarried toT. J. Woodward and died April 
10, 1886; James S. (born August 31, 1855, married Mary F. Shook, who has borne 
him four children — John R., Le Roy S., Harry C. and James Increase — and resides 
in Elkhart); Carrie Naomi (married Edward E. Beckly, by whom she has one 
daughter — Winona Jane — and resides in Elkhart), and John Coe, who died in 
infancy. Jonathan R. Mather is one of Elkhart county's best citizens. 

W. C. Miller, of Millersburg, Ind., farmer. The occupation of farming is one 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAliTA. 177 

that has received attention from the earliest ages, and it is not to be wondered at 
that it has become the art that it is at the present time. Among those who have 
shown a satisfactory knowledge of this calling, and whose operations were conducted 
in a very progressive manner may be mentioned W. C. Miller, who is the owner of 
a valuable farm in Center township. Like so many of the settlers in this section of 
the country, he comes of Pennsylvania Dutch stock, his ancestors having settled in 
Lancaster "county of that State "during the colonial days of this country. Abraham 
Miller, the father of W. C. Miller, was born in Lancaster county, and in the State 
of his birth he was married to Miss Nancy Lichty, by whom he became the father 
of six children: Henry, Barbara, William C, Sarah, Fannie and Anna, all of whom 
were born in the same county as himself. In 1830 he removed with his family to 
Montgomery county, Ohio, but for a long time thereafter found it very hard to pro- 
vide the necessary comforts for his family, as be was in poor circumstances, and 
wages were very low. Many were the days that he worked at threshing with a flail 
for 37i cents a day, but he was very industrious and pushing and managed to pro- 
vide very well for his children, and to give them the advantages of the common 
schools, at least during the winter months. In 1389 he took up his residence in 
Center township, Elkhart county, Ind.. where he entered forty acres of wild land in 
the western part of the township. This land he cleared with the help of his son, 
William C, and by economy and thrift secured enough means to purchase forty 
acres more adjoining this, which he also cleared, and at a later period he purchased 
another forty acres of La Grange county timber laud, all of which made him a good 
and comfortable home. Mr. Miller was a member of the Dunkard Church, while 
his wife was in sympathy with the German Reformed Church. He was a strong 
Democrat politically, and although a man of little education, he possessed a natu- 
rally fine mind, had sound and practical views on all subjects, and was respected by 
those who had the pleasure of his acquaintance as a man of honesty and upright 
character. He lived to be over seventy-five years of age. William C. Miller was 
born in Lancaster county, Penn. , in 1823, and although his early advantages were 
not of the best, he managed to learn to read and write. At that time educational 
advantages were not so fully appreciated as at this day, and the facilities for 
obtaining them were bj- no means what they are now. He did not have the opportu- 
nities to make up, in some degree, for this misfortune, owing to the fact that his 
youth and early manhood were wholly absorbed in the conflicts and rough experi- 
ences that mark the life of the first settlers of a new country. Yet sound sense and 
discriminating judgment were not lacking, and every opportunity that presented 
itself he grasped at, and thus, in time, became a well-informed and intelligent man. 
He became a resident of Ohio at the age of seven years, and of Indiana when seven- 
teen years of age, and during this time was reared to the life of a farmer, which 
occupation still continued to receive his attention after he had started out in life for 
himself. He was married to Catherine, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Arnold) 
Beckner, the former of whom was born in Rockingham county, Va. , and became a 
resident of Center township, Elkhart Co., Ind., about 1835, bringing with him 
his family, which consisted of his wife and following children: Elizabeth, Catherine, 
Eliza, Martin, William, Jacob, Samuel, Eli, Mary, Margaret, Sally and Susana. Mr. 
Beckner settled in the timber in the center of his township, where he made a good 
farm of 160 acres, and on which he resided the remainder of his days, dying at the 
age of about eighty-five years. He and his wife were members of the Dunkard 
Church, and he held the position of trustee and school director. He was an upright 
and honorable pioneer citizen, and had a wide circle of friends. After his marriage 
Mr. Miller settled in the vicinity of his present farm on forty acres of land, which 
he cleared from timber with his own hands. He became the owner of his present 
farm, which consists of 200 acres, but at the time of his purchase it was heavily 
covered with timber. Mr. Miller wielded his ax to a good purpose, and in time had 
his land entirely cleared from timber. By industry and thrift he gradually paid for 



178 PICTORIAL AXB BIOGRAPHICAL 

this land, and now owns 260 acres, well improved, and with no claim against it. 
He has always been bard working and industrious, and has obtained a competency 
which he now thoroughly enjoys. To himself and wife the following children have 
been born: Mary A. (deceased), was married and left five children; Martin: Fannie; 
Elizabeth, who died in infancy; Margaret; A'lron. and Jacob. The mother of these 
children died in November, 1S5S, and on March 25, 1860, Mr. Miller took for his 
second wife Mrs. Elizabeth King, whose maiden name was Burns, and by her Mr. 
Miller became the father of six children: Abraham, Andrew, Ellen, Lydia, Harvey, 
who attended the Normal College of Terre Haute, Ind., and is now a successfid 
school teacher, and John. Mr. Miller's second wife had one small child when he 
married her, named Mahala King, whom he brought up as his own, and who is now 
married to Jonas Horn, a farmer of this township. Mr. Miller is a stanch Democrat 
in politics, is highly respected in the community in which he resides, and has held 
a number of minor offices in his township. He and his first wife were Dunkards, as 
is his present wife, and he has assisted liberally with his means to build the Dunkard 
Church in his township. Mr. Miller is considered a desirable acqiiisition to the 
section in which he resides, and his reputation for integrity is all that could be 
desired. He is essentiaUy a self-made man, and his tine property has been acquired 
through his own efforts and at the expense of no one. 

Beardsley F.4.MILY. No name is more familiarly known in Elkhart county than 
that of Beardsley, and it is so thoroughly interwoven with its history that a work of 
this character would be incomplete without frequent reference to some member of 
the family. Dr. Havilah Beardsley was the pioneer and the first white owner of the 
land on which the city of Elkhart is now located. A native of New Fairfield, Conn., 
and of Welsh ancestry, his birth occurred April 1, IT'Jo. being the fifth son of Elijah 
and Sally (Hubbell) Beardsley. He removed with his parents, at a very early day, 
to Ohio, and, when j'et a bo}', was a volunteer in the War of 1812 against Great Brit- 
ain. When twenty-one years of age he began the study of medicine at Url)ana, and 
subsequently entered the medical department of the Transylvania University, which 
graduated him March 21, 1825. For several years he practiced his profession in 
Ohio, but the large practice proving both detrimental to health and uncongenial, he 
determined to abandon it. For these reasons he emigrated westward and having 
heard of the famous ""St. Joseph Country'" he drifted thitherward, and in 1830 
settled on the north bank of the St. Joseph River and near the head of what is now 
Main street, in the city of Elkhart. Owing to the fact that no physicians were 
then in this country, it was impossible to turn a deaf ear to the calls of distress from 
his fellow-man, and his fame and practice extended more than fifty miles in every 
direction. Recognizing the vast advantages of water power at and near the conflu- 
ence of the St. Joseph and Elkhart Rivers, he purchased a large tract of laud from 
the Indian chief, Pierre Morain, the transfer occurring in April, 1831. One year 
later the land was regularly plotted and the birth of Elkhart became an accom- 
plished fact. Erecting saw, oil, woolen and other mills. Dr. Beardsley put his 
whole energy into making the village a city. When the future of the place was an 
assured success, a rival claimant of the land by the name of Godfrey appeared, 
basing his claims on the ground that he had traded for the land prior to the time 
Dr. Beardsley had secured possession. Litigation followed, and as neither had 
patents from the Government, the title of the property was imperfect and for years 
the prosperity of the place was retarded. Upon Godfrey's failure he transferred 
his claim to his attorney at Detroit, and finally the suit was compromised by Dr. 
Beardsley transferring all right and title to the water power of the Elkhart River and 
a tract of land contiguous thereto to his opponent, he retaining as his part all the 
remainder of the property under dispute. A man of limitless energy he was instru- 
mental in the establishment of all the early industries of the place. He was an old 
line Whig in politics, and while not a man of brilliant attainments, was possessed 
of more good sound sense than usually falls to the lot of man. While not a member 



JIEirOIUS OF INDIASA. 179 

of any religious denomination, he was, in all that is essential, a Christian, dying in 
1S56 a believer in the Swedeuborgian faith. His widow (formerly Rachel Calhoun) 
died in April, 1891, aged over ninety years. There were four sons and one daugh- 
ter born to these parents: Edwin. Charles, James Rufus, Richard and Frances. 
The daughter is the widow of Hon. B. L. Davenport, and resides in Elkhart. Edwin 
resides in Illinois. Charles died at Elkhart leaving a widow (since remarried) and one 
son. Richard was iu the United States navy during the Rebellion; his health failing 
by reason of his arduous duties, was appointed United States Consul at Jerusalem 
and subsequently Consul- General to Egypt where he died. J. R. Beardsley is the 
only male representative of his father's family now living in Elkhart. When nine 
months old his parents came to this place and he has never known any other home 
than Elkhart. After securing a fair education of the practical order from the 
common schools, he assisted his father in his various manufacturing enterprises, 
and manufacturing has been his principal employment. For a time he was presi- 
dent of the First National Bank and is at the present time a director in the same. 
He is the owner of a paper mill, the half owner of a flouring mill and a stock- 
owner in a starch factory at the present time. J. R. Beardsley is a Republican 
in politics, and in that, as in all other matters, is of that positive, vigorous and 
robust type of manhood that insures success iu most matters undertaken. He 
was the city's second mayor, and besides having filled various other positions of 
local honor and trust, was twice elected to represent his county in the Senate of the 
State, first in 1866 and again four years later. On Christmas day, 1ST3. he was 
united in marriage with Miss Susan Ray, the daughter of Martin M. Ray, one 
of the foremost lawyers of Indianapolis, and to their union have been born three 
children: Ray, Wallace and Ellen. 

Jacob D. Schkock. This gentleman is regarded as one of the most enterprising 
pioneers of his district, and it is a pleasure to chronicle here the events that mark 
his life as one of usefulness. Material wealth must not exclude the riches of char- 
acter and ability in recounting the virtues which have been brought to this 
country by its citizens, and among its most precious treasures must be estimated the 
lives of those citizens who have by their intelligence and their eminence in the 
higher walks of life, assisted in raising the standard of life and thought in the com- 
munities in which they have settled. No one has probably done more in this line 
than Mr. Schroek, who is descended from Pennsylvania Dutch stock, his grandfather 
having come to this country from Germany, settling in Mifllin county, Penn., with 
his family, where he made his home for a number of years. He then took up his 
abode in Holmes county, Ohio, at which time it was a wilderness of woods inhabited 
by the red man and hosts of wild animals. He entered a farm of 160 acres which, 
by hard work, he managed to clear of timber and brush and convert into a fertile 
farm, where he and his family lived in comfort. He lived to be quite aged, and on 
the farm where the greater part of his life was spent, he was called to his long home 
and is sleeping his last sleep near Carlisle, Ohio. He was a member of the Amish 
Mennonite Church, was a Christian by both precept and example, was kind and con- 
siderate in his family and, contrary to the custom of his Aa\, "'spared the rod," but 
his children were by no means "spoiled" by such treatment. He was very upright 
in his walk through life, and consequently universal respect was accorded him. His 
son David, the father of the subject of this sketch, first saw the light of day in Mifflin 
county. Penn., and on his father's farm in that State he resided until he was about 
eighteen years of age, at which time he went with his parents to Ohio, in which State 
he afterward married Margaret, daughter of John Bonitrager, a farmer and wheel- 
wright, located on the line between Holmes and Tuscarawas counties. He lived to 
the advanced age of eighty-nine j'ears, having come of hardy German stock. To 
Mr. and Mrs. David Schroek five children were given, who lived to attain mature 
years: John, Mary, Jacob D. , Daniel and Elias. After his marriage Mr. Schroek 
located on 160 acres of land near Shawsville, Ohio, of which section he was one of 



180 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

the pioneers, and by the exercise of both brain and brawn he succeeded in clearing 
it and putting it in a good state of cultivation. He was very industrious, pushing 
and intelligent, and at one time was the owner of 320 acres of land, on which he 
erected a saw and carding-uiill. He was a far seeing, shrewd, and intelligent man 
of business, decidedly practical instead of theoretical, and every opportunity for bet- 
tering his financial condition was grasped at, but his operations were never conducted 
at the expense of others. In 1841 he came with his family to Indiana, and in Clin- 
ton township, Elkhart county, he purchased a tract of land comprising 260 acres, 
and as it was heavily covered with timber, he also bought a saw-mill and disposed 
of his timber by sawing it into boards and selling it. He showed good judgment in 
the conduct of his affairs, and found his saw mill a paying enterprise. After the 
death of Mrs. Schroek he married again, Melissa Ball becoming his wife. After a 
time he found the duties of the farm becoming rather irksome, and to escape there- 
from he took up his residence in Goshen, where he embarked in the lumber and 
grocery business, both of which proved disastrous financially, but like an honorable 
and upright man as he was, he paid his debts, dollar for dollar. He was influential 
and much respected, and he was at one time one of the commissioners of Elkhart 
county. Politically he was a Democrat. Jacob D. Schroek, his son, and the subject 
of this sketch, was born on the old homestead in Holmes county. Ohio, December 15, 
1823, but in his youth received few advantages for obtaining an education, although 
he acquired some knowledge of both the German and English languages. His 
youthful days were devoted to wielding the hoe or following the plow, and he 
acquired a thorough knowledge of and liking for the calling of agriculture, becom- 
ing familiar with the duties of saw-milling also. He was eighteen j'ears of age upon 
his arrival in Indiana, and daring the many years that he has resided in this State 
he has become thoroughly "Hoosierized." He started out to make his own way in 
the world at the age of eighteen years, and when he had attained his majority he 
purchased his father's saw-mill, which he successfully oiaerated until 1853, when he 
bought his present farm of 206 acres, to which he has since added seventy acres. In 
1853 he began gun-smithing, and being a natural mechanic succeeded well in this 
business, his time being fully occupied with the enterprise. He did all kinds of 
repairing and made 7(30 new rifles and many single and double-barreled guns. He 
was married in Fairfield count}', Ohio, January 7, 1S49, to Miss Lydia Kenagy (or, 
as it was spelled originally, Kenaghe), born February 22, 1820, Rev. David Zook 
officiating, and their union has resulted in the birth of the following children: Sarah 
A., born November 8, 1847; Melinda. born Mav 3. iSStl; Manassa, born February 
21, 1853; Eli, born May 12, 1857; Harvey Joseph, born April 1, 1862. Mrs. Schroek 
is a daughter of David and Rebecca (Hartgler) Kenagy, the former of whom was of 
German descent, a native of Dauphin county, Penn., who removed to Mifflin county, 
of the same State, with his father, Jacob Kenagy; was married there and settled on 
a farm nine miles east of Lewistown, where he died at the age of seventy-seven years, 
having been a substantial and honored citizen. He became the father of twelve 
children, whose names are as follows: Absolom, Xancy, David, Solomon, Lydia, 
Jacob, Sarah, Eli. Jonathan, Mary, Christian and Elizabeth. He was an old-fash- 
ioned Amish Mennonite, whose word was as good as his bond. The great-grand- 
mother of Mrs. Schroek was Anna Lapp, the great-great-grandmother was Anna 
Rickbough and the great-great-great-grandmother was Anna Fayerlichty. Mr. and 
Mrs. Schroek are members of the Amish Church and politically he is a Democrat. 
He has been a patron of education and has given his children good educational 
advantages, Henry J.'s education being obtained in a normal college. Sarah is the 
wife of Samuel F. Ullery, by whom she has two children; Eli married Ada Whitmore; 
Manassa married Ella Hazel, by whom he has two children; Harvey J. married Mil- 
lie Hazel. Mr. Schroek and his faithful wife have always been very industrious and 
are considered among the foremost citizens of the county. 

Norman Becklet, whose name and fame are so familiar in railroad circles, and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 181 

who has been so promiuentl}- coaaected with the welfare of the city of Elkhart, was 
born at Barry, Vt., April 15, 1823, being the eldest in a family of three eons and two 
daughters born to the marriage of Samuel Beckley and Roxana Colby. Zebedee 
Beckley, his grandfather, was said to have been of Scotch-Irish aucestry and was a 
soldier iu the war of the Revolution and also the War of 1812. With but few excep- 
tions the family have been a race of farmers, and were particularly noted for their 
magnificent physical development. A peculiar characteristic trait is a positive tem- 
perament, a strict adherence to friendship and morality, and for generations con- 
nected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. Norman Beckley was reared upon 
his father's farm in Vermont, and while his opportunities were of a limited 
nature, his boast was that he could not be excelled in his books or in anything he 
would undertake. During the winter season, and sometimes during the fall, he 
was enabled to attend select schools and at the age of fourteen years accomplished a 
man's work in the field. When eighteen years of age he began teaching district 
school during the winters, and from the proceeds of his labor defrayed the expense 
of one term's tuition at the academy in Montpelier and two terms at Newberry Sem- 
inary, during which time he boarded himself. Practically he began for himself at 
fourteen years of age; in fact, since that time he has never failed in accomplish- 
ing a man's work. It was this time he worked for the then remunerative wages of 
$9 per month. On attaining his majority he started South for the purpose of find- 
ing employment as a teacher, but owing to ill health, caused by the heat, and the 
Catholic riots of that time, he was compelled to remain in Philadelphia for a time, 
and from there changed his course to the great West. Staging for three days through 
swamps and over hills to Chicago from Marshall, Mich., he there found employment 
in a lumber office in the growing young city, but owing to chills, fever and ague, so 
prevalent then, he was compelled to relinquish his position and return to the East. 
Arriving iu Vermont, he worked one mouth getting out stone and building culverts 
for the Vermont Central Railwaj', after which he was foreman of a construction force 
two years. Immediately after the road was built he became paymaster of the con- 
tractor who was building the second track of the Fitchburg Railroad, then became 
section foreman of a division of the Vermont Central Railway. Then his appoint- 
ment as roadmaster of the Montpelier-Burlington division occurred, and after serv- 
ing as such for a time was transferred to the same position, and on the same road, 
of the Vermont-Canada division. In 1858 Mr. Beckley came West and became 
roadmaster of the Chicago division of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Rail- 
way, with headquarters at La Porte, which position he retained three years, but 
resigned to accept the superintendency of the Sycamore, Courtland & Chicago Rail- 
way, now a part of the Northwestern system. For thirteen years he served in this 
capacity, but in 1874 became Michigan division superintendent of the Lake Shore & 
Michigan Southern Railway, with headquarters at Elkhart, Ind. In 1878 he resigned 
this position to become general manager of the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan 
Railway. At this time the road was in about as bad condition as was possible for it 
to get. The stock had practically no market value whatever. It was 110 miles 
in length, unfenced, much of the right-of-way was unpaid for, numerous suits for 
damages were pending, the road bed, equipped with iron rails, was in so bad shape 
as to render life unsafe in traveling over it, and the only rolling stock owned by the 
corporation was one solitary engine. It was under such discouraging circum- 
stances that Mr. Beckley assumed management. Through his personal efforts, and 
in time, the pending suits were all compromised, the right-of-way perfected, ninety- 
five miles of additional road was built, steel rails replaced the iron ones, the 
road became fenced, the road bed leveled and placed on a substantial foundation, 
the entire system became equipped with the best rolling stock and motor power 
and the stock possessed the market value of one hundred cents on the dollar. 
To Mr. Beckley alone belongs the credit of this wonderfully successful feat of rail- 
road managing. From a road on the verge of bankruptcy and without credit, he 



ISO PICTORI.lL AND BIOOIiAPniUAL 

proJaced for Lis employers a road as well equipped as any iu the State and whose 
stock value was at par. His experience with this road was practically his experi- 
ence with the Sycamore, Coxirtlaud & Chicago road. His method was one of 
unswerving lionesty, careful contracts, strict business economy and keeping in his 
employment only men of good morals and sobriety. A severe disciplinarian, he was 
also lenient when the occasion warranted. Through his intluence gambling, drink- 
ing and kindred evils were much restricted in the city, and many a young man who 
had been iu the habit of spending his earnings in fast living, was induced to lay it 
aside to be invested iu a home. Many a home has thus been made in Elkhart. 
and many wives and mothers to-day look upon Mr. Beckley as procurer of their 
homes and happiness. Owing to failing health Mr. Beckley resigned his position 
as general manager, but until April, 1892, assumed in the less active position of treas- 
urer of the company. October 2, 1S4S, occurred his marriage with Miss Rosette, 
daughter of Keuben and Abagail (^Goodwin) Wills, who were Vermont people and of 
Scotch ancestry. To their marriage three children have been born: Emma E. (Mrs. 
M. H. Westlake), Edgar H. and Edward E. A Republican in politics, Mr. Beckley 
was nominated for mayor of Elkhart in 1SS4 and was duly elected. From his 
mother, when a boy, the principles of Christianity and morality were thoroughly 
instilled into his mind and for many years ho and wife have been members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was elected a delegate to the Northern Indi- 
ana Conference in April, 1892, and by that body was elected a delegate to the Gen- 
eral Conference at Omaha in May, 1892. 

Cassifs M. Inmel. Millersburg, lud. It was during the colonial history of this 
country that the Inmel family tree took root on American soil, the members of which 
braved the dangers and hardships of life in a wild and unsettled country that they 
and those that might come after them could have a home free of the degrading intlu- 
ence of religious persecution. The grandfather of the subject of this sketch was 
born on the soil of Pennsylvania, and inherited many of the most commendable 
attributes of his sturdy Euglish ancestors. He was a participant in the War of 1812. 
and in that struggle showed himself to be brave and loyal to the core to -\merica. 
His son, Isaiah, was born on the home farm in Pennsylvania, and like a dutiful son, 
cheerfully assisted his father in the duties of the farm. Although bis early advan- 
tages were limited, he possessed an active and original mind, and he was not con- 
tent with merely securing the advantages which the common schools afforded, and 
as he was very fond of reading he greatly added to his store of learning, and by 
self-application became an exceptionally well informed man. When a young man 
he removed to Ohio, and in the city of Chillicothe he was united in the bonds of mat- 
rimony to Miss Rosina Jones, soon after which event he removed to the "' Hoosier 
State " and settled at Waterford Mills, Elkhart county, where he at once began 
working at the blacksmith's trade and also engaged in the manufacture of pumps. 
He soon became associated with W. D. Platter, now of Goshen, Ind. , in the conduct of 
the tirst pump factory in northern Indiana. Realizing the fact that the soil of In- 
diana was exceptionally fertile and well adapted to the raisingof agricultural products, 
he, in 1865, made a purchase of some land in Clinton township, and there, through per- 
sistent effort, he cleared and improved a good farm. His marriage resulted in the 
birth of ten children, whose names are as follows: Isabel A., Wintield P., Charlie 
A., Edwin C, Isaiah P., Marietta, Cassius M., Charles E., Frank M. and Ulysses 
S. After the death of tlie mother of these children Mr. Inmel married again, taking 
for his second wife Miss Mary Barger. He has always been a stanch supporter of 
Republican principles, his judgment has always been recognized and for a period of 
twentv years he adjusted his neighbors' difficulties with impartial fairaess in the 
capacity of justice of the peace. At one time he was a resident of Millersburg for 
four years, and during this time he held the positions of trustee and marshal. He 
is a man whose reputation is untarnished, and in the capacity of an American citizen 
he is a model in every respect, for he is enterprising, public spirited and patriotic. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 185 

He stands high in the section in which he resides, for his many acts of disinterested 
generosity have brought him into high favor with his neighbors. He has always 
recognized the benefits to be derived from a good education, and in this respect he 
has fitted his children for the battle of life. Gassius M. lumel, his son, was born 
at Watertord Mills, January 12, 1862, and like the majority of farmers' boys, his 
youthful days were divided between attending the district schools in the vicinity 
of his rural home and iu wielding the hoe on the home farm. At the age of eight- 
een he left the shelter of the parental roof and began working in the factor}' of E. 
W. Walker, of Goshen, in 1879, where he remained a few months, then spent sis 
weeks in the public schools of the town. He was then taken quite sick and was 
compelled to return home. In December of the following year, after fully recov- 
ering, he entered the Normal College of Valparaiso, Ind., but after three month's 
attendance was again taken ill. He was carefully nursed by his parents at his old 
home, and when convalescent he once more entered the employ of Mr. Walker, with 
whom he remained for some time. Following this he again began attending school 
at Valparaiso, his vacations being devoted to the occupation of teaching in order to 
obtain means with which to defray his expenses while pursuing his studies. In 
1884 he graduated from the Valparaiso Normal College and being a very fine pen- 
man, he began teaching that science and has since followed it very successfully at 
Goshen, under the name of Vernon & Inmel Commercial Institute, during which 
time many young men were fitted to fill important positions in life. He has also 
followed his calling at Nappanee, Millersburg, New Paris and Milford, and has won a 
reputation of the most favorable kind for thoroughness and ability. In 1885 he set- 
tled down in Millersburg and began devoting his attention to the general insurance 
business, representing especially the Home Fire Insurance Company, of which he is 
a special department agent for six counties, having about twenty-three agents under 
his control. He has a one-half interest in the firm of Inmel, Keen & Eodgers, 
which business he established, and he is doing a general office business, is a notary 
public and attends to the settling of estates as an administrator. He wooed and 
won for his wife Miss Minerva Prickett, their union being consummated September 
23, 1883, at Goshen, Ind. His wife is a daughter of Nimrod and Anna (Ott) 
Prickett, the former of whom is an old and honored resident of the county and is in 
the insurance lousiness at Goshen, his father being one of the very earliest pioneers 
of this section. To Mr. and Mrs. Inmel two children have been born: Lois C. and 
Ralph W. Mrs. Inmel is a lady of much intelligence and is an earnest member of 
the Christian Church. Mr. Inmel is a Republican politically and has always mani- 
fested much interest in the cause of education; and, in the capacity of a member of 
the board of education of Millersburg his work was most praiseworthy. Socially 
he is a member of the honored order of the K. of P. He is a young man who occu- 
pies a prominent position in the estimation of those who know him, for his record has 
been remarkalily clean and his course through life manly and straightforward. He 
is a very agreeable gentleman to meet, either socially or in a business way and is in 
every sense of the word a self-made man. He has made his own way in life from 
a boy, and is an example of what a j'oung man can accomplish who pursues a correct 
course in life. 

Btron E. Merritt (deceased) was a progressive and useful citizen of Elkhart 
county, Ind., and his untimely death was deplored not only by his immediate and 
sorrowing household, but by all who knew him either personally or by reputation. 
His birth occurred at Porter, Cass Co., Mich., May 24, 1851, he being next to 
the youngest in the family of the late William R. and Adelia T. Merritt. He 
received the usual schooling of the boy of his period, that is, he attended the 
district schools, and after remaining at home until 1873 he went to Kansas and 
entereil the employ of his brother James. After a very short time, however, he 
returned home at the request of his father, and in the spring of 1874 entered into 
co-partnership with him in the mercantile business in Bristol. Here he remained 

12 



186 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

until the year 1881, when he assumed the entire responsibilities of the business. It 
was during this period of active mercantile pursuits that he developed those 
remarkable qualities which gained him the well-earned reputation of the "successful 
merchant." He continued to prosper as a business man until failing health com- 
pelled him to resign his interests to the charge of his brother Charles in May, 
1888. He lingered with that dread disease, consumption, tmtil December 17, 1890, 
when he succumbed to the inevitable and passed to his long home. He was a gentle- 
man both by instinct and training, and his walk through life was characterized by a 
desire to do right, in consequence of which he was highly regarded by all who had 
the pleasure of his acquaintance. He was sincere and earnest in his friendships, 
kind and considerate in his family, generous in his contributions to worthy causes, 
in fact, a model American citizen. It was only necessary to know, to admire and 
respect him, and as a pushing, successful business man, a keen and shrewd poli- 
tician, an exemplary citizen, a dutiful son or a devoted and affectionate husband, he 
had in every capacity won golden opinions for himself. On the 28th of February, 
1882, he was married to Miss Elnora, daughter of the late Joseph W. Lee, who has 
one son, Harry, an employe in the Elkhart National Bank. Mrs. Merritt was left 
in comfortable circumstances and is now a resident of Elkhart. She possesses the 
same kind heart and genial disposition, for which her husband was so well known, 
and has many warm and true friends to comfort and cheer her in her journey through 
life. 

Abraham Hoover. The founders of the family of Hoover, in America, were three 
brothers of the name who came from Germany during the second immigration to Penn- 
sylvania, in the time of William Penn. These brothers belonged to that religious sect 
known as the Mennonites, who were being persecuted in Germany on account of their 
belief, and they determined to take advantage of the most generous offers made by 
the great benefactor and law- giver, and finally sought a home in America. Two of these 
brothers reared families in America, but the other brother remained a bachelor. 
Henry Hoover, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born in Lancaster 
county, Penn., near Strasburg; was married to Mary Newswanger, and became the 
father of six children: John, Christian, Abraham, Susan, Barbara and Elizabeth. 
Henry Hoover became a substantial farmer of York county, Penn.. and was also 
a well-known minister of the Mennonite Church, in which capacity he did a 
great deal for the cause of Christianity. All measures of morality found in 
him a strong supporter, and he was universally respected wherever known. 
Abraham Hoover, his son, was born on the old home farm in York county, 
in 1789, and although he unfortunately received no schooling, by his own efforts 
he learned to read and write during the spare moments that he could secure 
from his farm duties. He was married to Christina, daughter of Henrj' and Annie 
(Sander) Martin, and after their marriage settled on a farm from which he removed 
to Wayne county, Ohio, in 1832. After he had attained to an advanced age he 
removed to Indiana and located on a small farm in Clinton township, Elkhart county, 
on which the remainder of his days were spent, his death occurring at the age of 
seventy years. He became the father of seven children that grew to maturity: 
Henry, Mary, who died at the age of sixty-two years; Abraham; John; David, who 
died when fifty-six years old; Annie, who died when fifty-eight years of age, and 
Martin. Abraham Hoover was very industrious and pushing, and possessing sound 
judgment, he became a wealthy farmer of Ohio. Full of pluck, energy and perse- 
verance, from his early boyhood, he made his entree into the business world at a 
time when those qualities were worth more to their possessor, especially if he were 
a young man, than any other kind of capital. Although he accumulated a comfort- 
able competency, his fortune might have been much greater had not his strict integ- 
rity, his generosity and kindness of heart interfered. Abraham Hoover, Jr., his son, 
was born March 9, 1822, in York county, Penn., but only attended the common 
schools near his home for a short period each year. His early life did not differ 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 187 

materially from that of the average boy of his time, who was expected to contribute 
to his own support as soon as he became physically able to perform any kind of 
manual labor, and the most important part of whose education is supposed to be his 
industrial training. October 2, 1845, he led to the hymeneal altar Martha Garber, 
who was born January 20, 1827, to Jacob and Esther (Rusch) Garber, the former of 
whom was a carpenter of Wayne county, Ohio. He and his wife became the parents 
of nine children: Mary, Fannie, Jacob, Abraham, Henry, Martha, David, Christian 
and Hester. Mr. Garber removed to Indiana after he had reached an advanced age 
and settled in Elkhart county, where he became known as an honorable man and a 
worthy memlier of the Mennonite Church. After his marriage, Mr. Hoover, in 184:7, 
bought a farm of 120 acres in Middlebury township, this county, on which he located, 
and which he cleared from the heavy timber that covered it, there having been but 
little improvement made at the time of his purchase. On this farm he resided for 
forty-two years, and here all his children were born except Henry, the eldest, who 
was born in Wayne county, Ohio, February 16, 1847, the other members being 
Jacob, born September 12, 1849; Elizabeth, December 15, 1851; Annie, October 24, 
1853; Fannie, December 2, 1855; Sarah, November 20, 1857; Christina, December 
25, 1859; Joseph, October 21, 1861; David, September 17, 1863, and Samuel, April 
19, 1868. Like his ancestors before him Mr. Hoover has been industrious, thrifty 
and progressive. He has made the most of every opportunity that presented itself 
for the accumulation of a competency, although never at the expense of others, and 
to his own goocl judgment and perseverance is attributable his present independent 
circumstances. He has been a cninister of the Mennonite Church for the past twenty 
years, of which church his wife was also a worthy member; and as an expounder of 
the gospel he has been earnest, zealous and conscientious. He became a resident of 
Millersburg, where he now resides, in 1889, and besides his residence there owns 
forty acres of land and other property in farm mortgages. His wife died on Jan- 
uary 6, 1879, at the age of fift3'-two years, and on November 9, 1884, he wedded Mrs. 
Mary (Grimer) Frederick, daughter of Philip Grimer. Mr. Hoover has alwaj's been 
a Democrat. His son, Henry, married Mary Hutchinson, by whom he became the 
father of three children. He was tilling the office of deputy county clerk at the time 
of his death, at the age of thirty-seven years. Jacob married Lucinda Wert, by 
whom he has one child. He is conducting a meat market in Millersburg. Eliza- 
beth married John Fletcher, who conducts a meat market in Elkhart, by whom she 
has four children. Annie married John Wert, who has a meat market in Millersburg, 
and is the mother of one child. Fannie married Adison Dohner, who was accident- 
ally killed in Kansas, by whom she has one child. Sarah married William Wert, a 
carpenter of Middlebury, and has one child. Christina married George Frederick, a 
grocer of Elkhart, and has three children. Joseph married Minnie Burns, and is a 
clerk in a bank at Oberlin, Kan. David married Harriet Kauffman, is a Methodist 
minister of Wichita, Kan., and has three children. Samuel who is single, has 
attended college at Quincy, 111., and is now a resident of Decatur, 111., teacher in a 
business college. These children are all honorable and useful citizens, and are a 
credit to the parents who reared them. 

D. Carpenter, proprietor of Carpenter's Transfer Line of Elkhart, Ind. , is a 
prosperous and pushing man of affairs, who has made his own way in life and is in the 
enjoyment of a competency that has been obtained through his own exertions. The 
town of Lancaster, Penn. , gave him birth on the 8th of September, 1852, his par- 
ents being Emanuel and Rebecca (Breckinridge) Carpenter, natives, respectively, of 
Lancaster, Penn. , and Kentucky, the latter being a relative of Gen. Breckinridge, 
who is well known in Southern history. Emanuel Carpenter was a skillful brick 
manufacturer and followed this calling at Naples, 111., whither he moved from Penn- 
sylvania, and during this time furnished brick for a number of Chicago houses. 
He became a resident of Elkhart, Ind., in 1860, and there he eventually passed from 
life, his widow still surviving him. They were the parents of seven children, two 



188 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

sons and one daughter of whom are now living: Stephen, David and Mary. Emanuel 
Carpenter served in the Civil war as a teamster, having charge of the teams of the 
Forty-fourth Indiana Volunteers, was wounded in an engagement, and this eventu- 
ally caused his death. While the family was residing at Naples, 111. , although the sub- 
ject of this sketch was only about seven years of age, he hauled brick to Chicago with 
an ox team. The principal part of his education was acquired in the public schools 
of Elkhart, but at an early age he left school to engage in railroading on the Lake 
Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, the first three years of his service being spent 
as a switchman. After the great Chicago fire he had charge of the sand trains 
from Whitings to Chicago for one year and seven months, after which he gave up 
railroad life and started the United States Express and transfer business in Elkhart, 
his iirst purchase to this end being an old white horse for which he paid $100 and 
which was, at that time, the sport of the town. During the twenty-two years that 
he has remained in the business he has built up a very extensive enterprise, now has sis 
tine teams and the rickety one-horse wagon in which he first began doing his hauling 
has given place to handsome vehicles which do nearly all the transfer business of the 
city. He has been connected with the Opera House of Elkhart, and for two years 
was with the King & Franklin troupe, and for two years had charge of the Lloyd & 
Thomas Reptile Company. For one season of thirty-five weeks he was the manager 
of the Georgia Minstrels, in which capacity he showed himself most efficient, and 
is now stage manager of the New Bucklin Opera House, of Elkhart. He has shown 
more than ordinary aptitude for this work, but to whatever enterprise he has turned 
his attention he has shown himself to be shrewd, far-seeing and intelligent. He has 
always been possessed of much energy, and in the battte of life has made all his 
work count, although he has always been the soul of honor in all his business trans- 
actions. He was chief of the fire department of Elkhart for nine years, and for 
the jaast twelve years has been foreman of the hook and ladder company. In fact, 
he is an enterprising citizen and no worthy enterprise is started but what receives his 
hearty support. His present position has not been attained without severe and con- 
tinued struggling, which clearly shows the pluck and indomitable energy of the man. 
He belongs to the civic societies of the K. of P., the Foresters and the I. O. O. F., in 
each and all of which he is a leading and popular member. He was married to Miss 
Jennie Guard, who died in 1 889, after a lingering illness of two years, her death being 
caused by a horse falling on her. She bore her husband three sons and one daughter: 
Walter, Harry, Joshua and Lottie M. Mr. Carpenter is one of the old landmarks 
of Elkhart, for at the time of his location here his residence was surrounded by 
woods, but is now almost within the heart of the city. His career is well worthy of 
emulation, for it shows what a poor boy can do, with plenty of that mysterious 
article called pluck, energy, perseverence and faithfal attention to business and 
to the trusts that are reposed in him. 

William B. Donaldson. The man from Pennsylvania has always been a potential 
element in the civilization and development of Indiana, and in early days along the 
woodsman's trail came men of all avocations and in every degree of social life. No bet- 
ter blood ever infused pioneer life; no sturdier arm ever set about the task of subduing 
the wilderness and no less vigorous mental activity could have raised a great common- 
wealth amid the unljroken elements of nature within the limits of half a century. 
The distinctive Americanism which Indiana has maintained almost co-equally with 
the older Eastern States, against an unparalleled tide of immigration from every 
nation upon the earth, is due to the virility of the pioneer stock in which the Key- 
stone State was so strongly represented. He, whose name heads this sketch, 
was born in Cannonsburg, Penn. , August 12, 1843. but the founder of the family 
in America was John Donaldson, who was born in Earlstown, shire of Merse, Scot- 
land, March 17, 1784, with which section his family had been identified for many 
years. Upon coming to the New World he settled in Cannonsburg, Penn., where 
he set himself energetically to work at the wheelwright's trade, a calling which 



MEMOinS OF INDIANA. 189 

received the greater part of his atteutiou until his death, in 1831. He was the 
father of four children: William, Robert, Elizabeth and Mary. Kobert was born 
February 1, 1811, in Canuonsburg, and in the common schools of that place he 
acquired his knowledge of the world of books. He learned the trade of a brick- 
layer, to which occupation his attention was given until November 11, 1871, when 
he was called to his long home. November 1-4, 183o, he married Sarah Brown, 
who was born March 9, 1813. a daughter of John Brown, and to them were born 
eight sons and three daughters: Marv, September 28, 1836; John November 27, 
1838; Jane, May 14, 1841;Willian B., August 12, 1843; Joseph, December 15, 18-45: 
Robert, November 27, 1847; James, February 20, 1850; Franklin P., July 22, 1852; 
Sarah, June 30, 1855; George, April 6, 1858, and Henry, January 16, 1861, all of 
whom are living, married and have families. The mother of these children was a 
member of the Presbyterian Church, but the father was a Methodist. He was a 
Democrat politically, held the position of mayor of Cannonsburg, and socially 
belonged to the I. O. O. F. He was endowed by nature with such gifts as character- 
ize true manhood in all that the word implies, was a useful, thriving, industrious 
citizen, and showed by his example that an honest and upright life is the best 
guarantee of success. A Democrat politically, he was a strong Union man during 
the Civil war, and sent three sons to battle for country and right: John B. , who 
was in a Pennsylvania regiment; Joseph B., who was also in that regiment, and 
William B. The last mentioned received a common-school education, and learned 
the trade of shoemaker. August 12, 1862, in response to a call from President 
Lincoln for 300,000 men, he enlisted in Company D, Tenth Regiment, P. R. V. C. 
He had attempted to enlist the previous year, but had been refused ou account of his 
youth. He was in the Army of the Potomac, and was almost continually in active 
service for two years and ten months, or until the close of the war, taking part in 
the battles of South Mountain, Autietam, Fredericksburg — when his division opened 
the fight under Gen. George G. Meade, and he was also in the great battles of 
Gettysburg, and the Wilderness, Spottsj'lvania, siege of Petersburg, and many 
battles and skirmishes of minor importance. He was wounded in the battle of 
Petersburg, August 19, 1864, in the left side, the ball striking a rib and passing 
around the body, coming out near the back bone. For one month thereafter he 
was in the Fairfax Seminai-y Hospital, and after again entering the service he was 
wounded a second time, October 2, 1864, before Petersburg, in the left thigh, and 
was in Lincoln Hospital, Washington, D. C, until the following spring, when he 
returned to his regiment and served until the war ended. He was faithful in the 
discharge of his duties, and no braver soldier ever trod the crimson turf of a Virginia 
battlefield. He returned home, bearing with him some honorable scars as an 
illustration of his loyalty and patriotism, and was married February 22, 1866, to 
Miss Annie Ferguson, a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Hiles) Ferguson, the former 
of whom was of Scotch descent, and an old settler and farmer of Washington 
county, Penn. To Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson one child was born: Luella S., whose 
advent into this world occurred November 24. 1866. Soon after the celebration of 
his nuptials, Mr. Donaldson moved with his family to Middlebury, Elkhart Co., 
Ind., where he resided until the spring of 1881, when he became a resident of 
Millersburg. In 1867 he began clerking for Christian Stutz, a prominent merchant, 
with whom he remained for thirteen years, after which he became a partner in a 
general store with Mr. Stutz, in Millerslnirg. of which he took charge in 1881, and 
which has proved a profitable enterprise. The Masonic fraternity has long num- 
bered Mr. Donaldson among its most worthy members, and he is a member of 
Randall Post, No. 320, of the G. A. R., in which he held the position of quarter- 
master three years. He is a Democrat in his political convictions, has been town 
clerk of Middlesbury three years, was a member the council one year, and in Mid- 
dlesbury has been town treasurer five years. He and his wife and daughter belong 
to the German Reformed Church, and under all circumstances he has been recognized 



190 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPniCAL 

as a pnblic-spirited citizen, who could be relied upon to aid every worthy enterprise. 
His record as a soldier and citizen speaks for itself, and his many years of service 
for one firm shows his integrity to be untarnished. Of him it may be said, he is a 
model American citizen, and is in every way entitled to ' ' The grand old name of 
gentleman." 

Samdel Good (deceased). There is no inheritance so rich as the records of the 
worthy lives of those who have departed this life and who had human frailties, yet 
were so enabled to overcome them as to lead lives of usefulness, integrity and true 
godliness. Such a man was Samuel Good who was one of the pioneers of St. 
Joseph county, Ind. , but was born in Virginia on October 2, 1794. The parents of 
Samuel were Virginians who owned a large plantation and had a large number of 
slaves. About 1800 they freed them all and removed to Champaign county, Ohio, 
and were among the first settlers in the vicinity of Urbana. Here the parents of 
Samuel resided until their death. The father was a successful farmer and acquired 
considerable property prior to his death. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. 
Samuel was quite small when his parents settled in Ohio and there he was reared, 
and October 12, 1818, was married to Hester Russell, who was born September 2, 
1800, in Maryland, a daughter of Caleb and Lydia (Devore) Russell, who were 
pioneers of Champaign county, Ohio, from Maryland, the remainder of their days 
being spent in the Buckeye State. Caleb Russell was a farmer and an 1812 soldier, 
his death occurring shortly after the termination of that conflict. After the mar- 
riage of Mr. and Mrs. Good they settled on a farm in Champaign county, but in 
the spring of 1830 they removed to Elkhart county, Ind., and settled on the St. 
Joseph River, near where the city of Goshen now stands, and near where an Indian 
village then stood. That summer was spent in camp life and they succeeded in 
raising a fair crop on the prairie near by. In the fall Mr. Good built a log cabin in 
which they passed the winter. Another crop was raised in 1831, but that fall the 
family came to St. Joseph county and took up their residence two miles south- 
west of South Bend where Mr. Good had entered 240 acres of land in 1830. He 
also entered 240 acres in Portage Prairie in German township where he afterward 
settled. Later he removed to South Bend and engaged in slaughtering and the 
sale of meat. He was a successful farmer and an active business man but was cut 
off in the prime of life, his death occurring October 21, 1836. His widow survived 
him many years, her death occurring at the home of her daughter on the old home- 
stead southwest of South Bend. Mr. and Mrs. Good were the parents of seven 
children: Marv J., who was born in Ohio, Februarv 2, 1820, died November 24, 
1836; Lydia A., wife of Joshua D. Miller; William S. was born October 4, 1823, 
and when a young man went to California, in 1849, and engaged in mining and 
transportation busiues.s, at which he was very successful. In 1853 he returned to 
Indiana and purchased a large drove of horses, and while returning to California 
was taken sick in Carson Valley, Nev., and died on September 15, 1853, being 
buried there. Joseph was born September 22, 1825, and married Mary Estridge. 
He was a successful farmer of St. Joseph county and died in September, 1890; 
Martha E. was born October 7, 1828, and died November 21, 1836; Lucinda C. was 
born January 22, 1832, married Adam Konzen and resides in Portage township; 
Samuel G. was born January 26, 1836, in German township, was reared in his 
native county, principally in German township, where he resided most of his life. 
He was married November 21, 1871, to Minerva C. Stocker, who was born on May 
15, 1846, in German township, daughter of Peter and Mary (Adams) Stocker. 
After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Good they settled on a farm in German town- 
ship, an occupation which Mr. Good still follows. He is one of the most successful 
and reliable farmers of the township and county, owning over 500 acres of land. 
In the spring of 1872 he located on a farm where he now resides, one-half mile 
north of the city limits of South Bend, consisting of 300 acres of land, on which 
is a fine residence and farm buildings of all descriptions. During his earlier years 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 191 

Mr. Good was oue of the lirst to go to Colorado, in 1S59, where he spent two 
and one-half years engaged in transporting supplies, provisions, etc., from Denver 
to the mining districts, in which line of work he was remarkably successful. He 
was in Leadville during the early days of the mining excitement and had many 
strange experiences. He took the first load of supplies from Denver to California 
Gulcii in the spring of 1860, and the prices received for many articles seem almost 
incredible at the present day. He readily disposed of boots at $25 per pair, flour 
at §20 per sack and other articles in proportion. Returning from Denver to 
South Bend he made the trip by team in thirty-three days. Mr. and Mrs. Good 
are the parents of two children, one of whom died in infancy. The one living is 
Mabel M., who was born April 21, 1875, and is being educated at St. Mary's 
Academy. In polities Mr. Good is a Republican, and at all times supports his 
party's principles. He is one of the first citizens of the county and is deservedly 
popular with all classes. 

Dr. James W. Jennings. For considerably over a score of years Dr. Jennings 
has been the faithful and efficient professional servant of the public, in a community 
which has become more and more attached to him as the years have rolled by, 
while in neighboring towns and cities his skill is recognized, his services are in 
demand, and his face has for many years been a familiar and welcome one. He 
comes of sturdy English stock, for from that country his grandfather, Gideon Jen- 
nings, came about the opening of the Revolutionary war, and in the struggle with 
the British Government for liberty, he aided the colonists, aud was a participant in 
the famous battle of Brandywine. Although he could read and write the English 
language, his education was quite limited, but this did not prevent him from making 
a substantial citizen. He was married to Grace Dary, and after a short residence 
in Rockingham county, Va. , he removed to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where he 
entered and bought a large tract of land at what is now New Philadelphia. He was 
the very first settler of that region, at which time the timber was very heavy — prin- 
cipally large beech trees — and in order to raise any kind of a crop of corn, he was 
compelled to climb the trees and trim off the branches to let in the sunlight. The 
Indians at that time were very plentiful, and numerous were the encounters he had 
with them, but he was wary and watchful, thoroughly skilled in woodcraft, and 
when pursuing his labors about his place, he carried his trusty rifle strapped to his 
back, and was seldom, if ever, taken by surprise. His home was twenty miles from 
any neighbor, but he soon became known as a famous hunter throughout that region, 
and lived on fish and game that fell victims to his rod and gun. Mr. Jennings 
made his home on that land for many years, cleared a good farm and became one of 
the prosperous farmers of Tuscarawas county. He built one mile of the Ohio State 
canal, which passed that distance through his farm, and in a verj^ early day he 
built the first grist mill in his section of the country, which was a very primitive 
structure indeed. It consisted of a stone hollowed out, and the corn was pounded 
out with mortars. He became the father of nine children, seven of whom were sons: 
James, Aaron, William, John, Jonathan, Gideon, David, Polly aud Druscilla. Mr. 
Jennings was an early Methodist, and his home was the headquarters for the early 
itinerant ministers of that denomination who labored so zealously to spread the 
Gospel throughout the West. He assisted both with purse and influence to erect 
the early churches throughout that section, and being strong in his religious con- 
victions, he did a great deal to spread the Christian faith. After his family had 
grown up he again moved to the wilderness and this time took up his abode in Allen 
county. Ohio, and in 1832 purchased 1,100 acres of land three miles north of Lima, 
on Sugar Creek, where he once more carved him out a home from the forest. He 
gave each of his sons 160 acres of land, as well as his daughters, Druscilla, who 
married Silas Williams, receiving 160 acres of the old homestead. Polly married 
Benjamin Williams, a brother of Silas, and also received her just portion of her 
father's property. Druscilla became the mother of Bishop Williams of the Meth- 



192 . PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

odist Church, who was present at the Quadrennial Convention of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church held at Omaha. Neb., in 1892. Gideon Jennings lived to the 
age of four score years, dying on his farm August 28, 18-43, and is now sleeping his 
last sleep in a cemetery which was laid out on his farm, his tombstone being the 
first that was brought to that part of Ohio. He was one of the ideal American 
pioneers — that class of people who paved the way to the present magnificent state 
of civilization — and possessed all the courage, fortitude and energy necessary for 
a successful life on the frontier. He was six feet in height, very strong and active, 
and his prominent traits of character were great determination, honest purpose and 
strict honor. David Jennings was his seventh son, and was born near New Phil- 
adelphia, Ohio, July 13, 1813, and acquired a partial knowledge of the three R's in 
an old time log school-house which had been built by his father on the home farm, 
and this institution of learning was presided over by a teacher who wore a buckskin 
suit, consisting of a hunting shirt and leggins. In those days it was considered the 
proper thing for the teacher to treat the scholars, and this was generally done in 
whisky, or whisky and apples. In 1832 David Jennings married, in the same neigh- 
borhood where he was born, Elizabeth Laughlin, who was born February 12, 1814, 
in Allegheny county, Penn., a daughter of James Laughlin, a pioneer farmer of 
Tuscarawas county, Ohio, a descendant of Scotch-Irish ancestors, and of an old 
colonial family. To their union ten children were given, all of whom lived to hon- 
orable manhood and womanhood: Susannah was born Januarj' 18, 1832; Solomon 
was born January 1, 1834; Abel B.. April 13, 1836; James W., May 4, 1838; Isabel, 
March 4, 1840; Mary, June 27, 1842; Aaron, August 7, 1844; Druscilla, October 30, 
1846; Samuel, November 22, 1849; Charles W.. January 1, 1853. Abel died in 
1868; Aaron in 1876; Samuel in 1870, and Charles W. in 1872. In 1838 David 
Jennings removed to Sugar Creek, near Lima, Ohio, settled on some land and 
cleared up a farm, although, like all pioneers, he had to labor early and late in 
order to clear his laud of timber and brushwood. The forests were very dense in 
that sectioQ, and were roamed at will by deer, bear and wolves. On this farm David 
Jennings lived for many years, but in 1863 he moved to Williams county, Ohio, and 
bought a farm near Bryan, where he passed the remainder of the days allotted to 
him. Like his father, he was a man of imposing stature, standing six feet two 
inches in his stockings, and in his prime he was considered the strongest man on 
Sugar Creek. He was a faithful laborer, and was well known for his integrity and 
honor. He was very faithful in his friendships, and his generous disposition and 
warm heart often led him into the error of signing bonds for his friends which he 
was compelled to pay, and in this way liis wealth was very much decreased. He 
and his wife were devout members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and as a con- 
sistent Christian he was very prominent in religious work. Politically, he grew up 
with the old line Whig party, but was one of the organizers of the Eepublican party 
in his county, and retained his connection with that organization during the 
remainder of his life. He lived to the age of sixty-six years, dying in Millersburg, 
Ind., in 1877, while visiting his son. Dr. Jennings. In all the relations of life his 
career was one to be studied with interest and emulated with profit, for under the 
adverse circumstances of pioneer life he secured a competency and reared his family 
in comfort. Energy, force of character, sterling integrity and deep piety were his 
distinguishing characteristics, and during the war he was a stanch supporter of the 
Union, and assisted with his means in raising men in his county for the Federal 
service. Dr. James W. Jennings, his son, was born on Sugar Creek, in Allen 
county, Ohio, May 4, 1838, and his earliest recollections are of assisting his father 
in the duties of the farm. In the district schools near his home he acquired a 
thorough practical education, and at the early age of sixteen years he began teach- 
ing school, devoting the winter seasons to this calling for six years. He then 
entered Oberlin College, and finally the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, 
from which institution he was graduated. Succeeding this he continued to pursue 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAJS'A. 193 

his studies under Drs. Kenkins of Pendleton, and Booth of West Cairo, Ohio, after 
which he practiced his profession in connection with his brother. Dr. Solomon Jen- 
nings, until 1869. He then opened an office at Millersburg, Ind., and has since 
pursued his profession with unvaried success, which could hardly be otherwise, as 
he has always been thoroughly in love with the profession, and regards it as a high 
and holy calling. He believes it to be the duty of the physician to cure the ills of 
mankind when called upon, if it lies within his power to do so, and in his own prac- 
tice no effort has been spared to attain that end, whatever the social or financial 
condition of the patient who seeks his service. The human body is to him a temple, 
with the architecture of which the physician should be thoroughly familiar, and 
which he is charged with the responsibility of keeping in order. To this work he 
has devoted hitnself with conscientious zeal, and when he is called into a family as 
physician, he becomes a sympathetic friend and counselor. He is a reader and 
patron of the best medical and surgical publications of the day, is a member of the 
Indiana State Medical Society, and is one of the oldest members of the Elkhart 
Medical Society. In 1863 he enlisted in Company C, Fifteenth Regiment Ohio 
National Guards, and was on duty at Forts De Russie, Simmons, Stevenson, and at 
Washington was present and under lire when Gen. Early made his raid on that city. 
He served two years. February 9, 1S66, he was married in Defiance county, Ohio, 
to Samantha Fisher, who was born March 17, 1844, to Jesse and Nancy (Fowler) 
Fisher, the former of whom was born in Franklin county, Penn., of substantial 
Dutch stock, and was a soldier in the War of 1812. After a short residence in 
Franklin county, Penn., he removed to Wayne county. Ohio, where he was a 
pioneer, and made himself a good home. He was the father of twelve children: 
Conrad, John, Archie, Philip, Lucretia, Sallie, Nancy, James, Jennie, William, 
David and Samantha, all of whom lived to rear families. Later in life Mr. Fisher 
settled in Defiance county, Ohio, on uncleared land, where he made a good home. 
He died April 3, 1872, at the age of eighty-two years. His wife died April 30, 
1864. Both were earnest members of the Presbyterian Church. He was a Republican, 
politically, was a warm Union man during the war, and one of his sons, David, 
served three years in an Ohio regiment, his principal duty being to guard rebel 
prisoners on Johnson's Island. After his marriage. Dr. Jennings first practiced at 
West Milton, Ohio, but for many years past has been a resident of Millersburg, 
Ind. To him and bis wife three children have been born: Eva D., born December 
24^1870; Effa Mae, born September 27, 1872; and Charles W., born October 27, 
18 <4. The Doctor is a member of the K. of P. Lodge, No. 328, is a charter mem- 
ber of the G. A. R., Randall Post, No. 320, of which he is surgeon, and politically is 
a Republican. His brother. Dr. Solomon Jennings, is practicing medicine near 
Dayton, Ohio, and is a distinguished surgeon. Another brother, Abel B., became 
an attorney, but died soon after being admitted to the bar. Aaron B. , another 
brother, now deceased, was also an eminent physician. Two brothers-in-law, one 
S. B. Junkin, practices in North Webster, Ind., and Dr. C. J. Sprague, deceased, 
formerly practiced in Syracuse, Ind. 

JosHU.4 D. Miller, South Bend, Ind. The earliest record of the Miller family at 
hand commences with the life of Jacob Miller, who was the grandfather of many of 
the well-known citizens of St. Joseph county, who settled here during the earliest 
history of northern Indiana. Jacob Miller was born in Franklin county, Penn., in 
1735, his parents being natives of Germany. He united with the German Baptist 
Church early in life, in which he became a noted minister in later years. When 
quite a young man he married and removed to Franklin county, Va. , where he 
reared a family of nine sons and three daughters. He labored in his ministe- 
rial capacity in that locality and built up a large chui-ch, which is standing to this 
day. In 1800 he took up his residence near Dayton. Ohio, on the west side of the 
Great Miami River, at which time the country was a dense forest, inhabited by nu- 
merous tribes of Indians. Elder Miller frequently visited them in their wigwams, 



194 PICTORIAL AJSID BIOGRAPHICAL 

sang and prayed with them, and his kind and friendly treatment led the savages 
to reverence and respect him and to offer him their protection under all circum- 
stances. They called him the "Good Man" the Great Spirit had sent them from 
the east. He reared a very exemplary family of children, some of whom became 
worthy ministers in the church. He died at his home in Ohio in 1815, at the age of 
eighty years, full of hoaors and mourned as a most devout Christian and able minis- 
■ ter of the gospel, leaving behind him a name and record of which his descendants 
may well feel proud. The sons and daughters of Elder Jacob Miller were: Isaac, 
who married Hannah Webb and lived in Greene county, Ohio; he was a soldier in the 
War of 1812, enlisting in 1813, and died while in the service of his country; Samuel 
died in Virginia, aged about twenty-five years; Daniel married a Miss Shideler, by 
whom he reared a large family, was a worthy minister of the German Baptist Church, 
and died in Iowa; Mary married Samuel Doost, lived in Ohio and had four sons: 
Abraham. Isaac, Jacob and John, who were able ministers of the church, the first 
mentioned dying in Miami county, Ohio, in 1829 and the latter in the same county 
in 1875 at the age of eighty six years, having been a minister in the German Bap- 
tist Church for more than fifty years; Eve married a Mr. Moss and after his death 
became the wife of Joseph Kingery. residing in Preble county, Ohio; Anna married 
a Mr. Lybrook and lived in Union county. Ohio; John, the eldest son, married 
Phcebe McClure, after which he spent his life in Union county, Ind. , where he died, 
having reared a large family of children. Jacob married Sarah Chapman, reared a 
family, and lived and died in Virginia. Aaron Miller, another son of Elder Jacob 
Miller, was born April 8, 1785. in Virginia, and moved to Ohio with his parents in 
the year 1800. He married Elizabeth Hardman December 1, 1805, and reared a 
family of seven sons and four daughters. In 1S18 they moved to Wayne county, 
Ind., and in 1S20 came to South Bend when it was only a trading post, with A. Co- 
quillard and L. M. Taylor as traders. Mr. Miller settled on the banks of the St. Jo- 
seph River, four miles north of South Bend, in the spring of 1S31. He was one of 
the first ministers of the gospel to preach in this county, and the eleven children 
which he reared were all brought up in the faith of the German Baptist Church. 
David, the eldest, was a gifted minister of the gospel. He reared a large family 
and died at the age of seventy-two years. Benjamin also reared a family and re- 
moved to California during the early history of that State. Solomon lived for many 
years in South Bend, was a merchant for several years, and held the office of county 
treasurer acceptably. He died many years ago leaving a family. Isaac was mar- 
ried and reared a family. He was in the mercantile business with his brother Solo- 
mon, but when the Rebellion opened he showed his patriotism by at once enlisting in 
the Union army, and lost his life while serving his county, his death occurring in 
the South. Joshua B. came to St. Joseph county in an early day, and still resides 
in South Bend. John married, reared a family, and moved to northwestern 
Iowa. Aaron, the youngest son, married and moved to Kansas when that State was in 
its infancy. He was married to Evaline Roe, and eight children were born of this 
union. He died in Lyon county, Kan., in 1892, having lived an exemplary life. 
All the daughters married and reared families, moved West, and one resided in Ore- 
gon for several years and died at the age of eighty-two years. Tobias, Abraham and 
David, also sons of Elder Jacob Miller, are mentioned at length elsewhere in this vol- 
ume. Joshua D. Miller was born in Montgomery county, Ohio. January 25, 1818, 
son of Aaron and Elizabeth (Hardman) Miller. In the spring of 1818 the family re- 
moved to Wayne county, Ind., and settled on a farm near Richmond. Here he made 
his home until about thirteen years of age, attending the old-time subscription schools 
which were held in log school-houses during the winter months until he reached man- 
hood. In the spring of 1831 he came with his parents to St. Joseph county, settling 
on the river in German township, four miles north of South Bend. He witnessed the 
transformation of a wilderness into a cultivated, improved country, dotted with rich 
and finely-cultivated farms anddensely-populated districts. In 1845 he removed to 



JfEJfOTRS OF INDIANA. 195 

Miami county, Ohio, and spent three years working at the carpenter's trade in the vi- 
cinity of Troy. Tpon returning to St. Joseph county he followed carpentering for 
about twenty-five years, and many of the fine residences and bams of the surrounding 
country attest his taste and skill as a mechanic. He was married in September, 1849, 
toLvd"iaA. Good, born October 22. 1821. a daughter of Samuel and Hester (Kussell) 
Good. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Miller they resided in South Bend for 
two years and then settled on a farm in German township which consisted of 160 acres 
of land, which Mr. Miller brought under a high state of cultivation and made 
some valuable improvements thereon. Eetiring from active business pursuits, he dis- 
posed of his property in 1878 and located in South Bend, where he still resides and 
where he owns valuable residence property. While a resident of German township 
he discharged the duties of township assessor for fourteen years, and also held the of- 
fice of trustee and other positions of honor. In 1846 Mr. Miller became a member of 
the I. O. O. F., and has represented his camp at the Grand Lodge on three differ- 
ent occasions. He has also held all the oflScial positions in the subordinate lodge 
and camp. He is a member of the Rebecca degree. He belongs to the Universal- 
ist Church and in politics is a Republican, having voted that ticket ever since the 
organization of the party, having previously been a Whig. Mr. and Mis. Miller are 
the parents of seven children: Paulina. Alice and Clara (twins). Martha, William 
G., Mary and Hester. Three of these children died in childhood of diphtheria, and 
the rest grew to maturity but have since died. 

Abraham Schrock is descended from one of the old and historic colonial families 
of America, the founders of which were two brothers who left their native land of 
Germany to seek a home on a foreign shore. They were members of the Amish 
Mennonite Church, which sect was strongly opposed to war in every form, and to 
escape military service they, in company with another brother, set out on foot for 
Russia, but the third brother becoming footsore, was obliged to remain on the shore of 
the Black Sea while the other brothers took passage on ,a vessel for America and in 
due time reached the shores of Canada. Later they took up their abode in Penn- 
sylvania where William Penn had established an asylum for the oppressed religious 
sects of the world. They married and reared families. The great-grandfather of 
the subject of this sketch, Casper Schrock, was a farmer of the "Keystone State" 
and was the follower of the religion of his fathers. John Schrock, his son, tilled the 
soil at a place called " The Glades " in Somerset county and there brought up a 
family of six children: Peter, Daniel, Michael, Joseph, Eosina and Kate. He was 
a substantial farmer and lived to be an old man. His son Peter was also a product 
of Somerset county, Penn., his birth occurring on his parents' farm in 1801. He fol- 
lowed in his father's footsteps as to his occupation, and while still single, at the age of 
twenty-three years, he removed to Wayne county, Ohio, and settled on 160 acres of land 
which his father, with his usual foresight, had entered for him. He cleared this 
land from timber, improved it very much in the way of fences, buildings, etc., dur- 
ing the eighteen years that he remained on it, and by his own untiring efforts made it a 
very valuable piece of property. A short time after settling in that locality he was mar- 
ried to Fannie, daughter of Jacob Plank, a miller by occupation, and in 1842 they 
removed to Elkhart county, Ind. , and were worthy agriculturists of Middlebury 
township until the father's death in 1884. His character was above reproach and 
he was a man who won respect from all with whom he came in contact. He was of 
a very religious nature and for many years was a deacon in the Amish Church. His 
wife bore him twelve children, whose names are as follows: John, Jacob, Abraham, 
Cornelius, Joseph, David, Peter, Mary. Rachel, Martha and two infants that died. 
The mother of these children, a most estimable and intelligent old lady, has at- 
tained to the advanced age of eighty-seven years. Abraham Schrock, thesubject of this 
sketch, first saw the light of day ou his father's farm in Wayne county. Ohio, 
August 10, 1828, and in his youth was given educational advantages, which his dis- 
criminating judgment led him to improve. When a mere boy he began lite for 



19ti PICTOUIAL AND BIOGIi^lPJTICAL 

Limself as im assistant teacher, aud this ealliug he followed with the best of success 
for over three years. During this time he had been gaining a thorough knowledge 
of the intricacies of farming and also of the carpenter aud joiner's trade so that 
when he Viegan his indepeudeut career, he was better titted than the aveiage farmer's 
boy to make his own way in the world. He came to Indiana with his parents when 
fourteen years of age and was married in La Grange county, November 8, lS4y, to 
Polly Miller, who was born June '20. IS'S'S. to Joseph and Elizabeth (Zoder) Miller, 
the former of whom was born in Somerset county, I'eun., in ISOS, was a farmer b}' 
occupation aud was a member of the old Amish Church. He aud his wife became 
the parents of five children: Lydia, Polly, Kachel. Daniel aud Joseph. Mr. Miller 
became a resident of La Grange county, in 1851, aud in time became the owner of 
340 acres of laud. In addition to discharging these duties he was an active 
minister of his church, organized many new congregations and was a power for 
good. After his marriage Mr. Schrock settled on Section 1(5, Middlebury township. 
on 107 acres of land and with the aid of his faithful and industrious wife he has in- 
creased it to 1ST acres. Ten children have been born to them: John, born Sep- 
tember '20, 1S50, was married to Lucy Snellsboyer, is a farmer of Kansas and is the 
father of three children: Fannie, born January 16, 1S53. married Samuel Balyeat, a 
farmer of Kansas and has six children; Libbie, born September 20, 1S54, became 
the wife of Jacob Garver. a farmer of Clinton township, and died in her twenty- 
eighth year, after having become the mother of two children ; Mary, V)orn May '24, 
1857, became the wife of John Nusbaum, a lawyer, and died in her thirty-third 
year: Joseph, born May 4. 1860. married Jennie Carmine, is a farmer but was formerly 
in a furniture store in Goshen aud is the father of two children: Abraham, born 
June 8, 1862, died October 6, 1863: Rachel, boru January \\ 1864, married Henry 
Alshouse, a farmer, and has three children; Emma, born February 14, 1869, mar- 
ried Heury Pfieffer. a farmer, and has one child: Edsou, born August 17. 1871, aud 
Franklin born October 10, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Schrock are members of the Amish 
Church aud being industrious, honest, public-spirited and law-abiding they are 
valuable residents of the community in which they reside and are considered the best 
of neighbors. They have reared their children to believe in Christianity, have given 
them good common-school educations and have handed down to them their own 
numerous virtues and an untarnished name. 

Yost Schrock is one of the old settlers of Middlel)ury township and possesses all 
the characteristics of the native Hollander from which race of people he is descended, 
although he was born in Wayne county. Ohio., March 28, 1827. His grandfather, 
Jasper Schrock, came to Ajuerica from the old country and settled in Somerset 
county. Peun., where he siiccessfully tilled the soil, and was eventually married to 
Miss Catherine Stouky. This union resulted in the birth of nine children: 
Michael, Abraham, Jacob, John. Christian, Henry, Catherine, Peter and Joseph. 
Jasper Schrock was a member of the Amish Church and died in Somerset county. 
His son Peter was born in that county, and there was initiated into the mysteries of 
farming. When a young mau he removed to Holmes county, Ohio, and was there 
married to Sarah, daughter of Yost Miller, who was a pioneer settler of that county 
and a substantial farmer. In time a family of eight children gathered about their 
hearthstone: Catherine. Elizabeth. Susannah, Tost, Elias. Benjamin. Sarah and 
Mary. Soon after his marriage Mr. Schrock removed to Wayne county. Ohio, at 
which time the region was very sparsely settled. He had a neighbor, Samuel Lants, 
who hauled forty bushels of wheat to Worcester, selling it for two shillings per 
bushel, receiving as payment one barrel of salt. Although he and his family suf- 
ered many hardships, which always attend the life of the pioneer, they enjoyed 
good health, made the best of their lot, were industrious and in time a good home 
was developed from the wilderness, containing of 123 acres. Mr. Schrock was an 
earnest Christian and for many years was a minister of the Amish Church. He died 
on his farm at the age of fifty-one years, his death being much regretted by those 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 197 

who knew him. His soa Yost was brought up aa he, himself, had been and obtained 
a thorough knowledge of agriculture and a fair common-school education. In those 
early days the farmers tramped out the wheat on the barn floor with horses, and 
the task usually assigned to young Yost was to ride the lead horse at this work. 
This slow process occupied weeks of the fall and winter. In October, 1848, at the 
age of twenty-one, he was married to Magdaleua, daughter of Christian and Eliza- 
beth (Kurtz) Plank, the former of whom w;is one of the first settlers of Wayne 
county, Ohio. After his marriage ilr. Schrock resided on the old homestead for 
three years and here his two eldest children were born. The names of his off- 
spring are: Christian, Isaac, Elizabeth, Elias, Emeline, Mary J., Sarah A., Nancy 
E., William and Clara A. In 1851 Mr. Schrock and his family moved to Indiana 
and settled in Middlebury township, Elkhart county, the following spring taking 
up his residence on his present farm. The improvements on this place have been 
made by himself, consisting of a tasteful and comfortable residence, good barns and 
outbuildings, excellent fences, etc., and the farm presents a beautiful and thrifty 
appearance. His land, consisting of 100 acres, has all been cleared by his own efforts, 
with the exception of three acres. He has always been kind and considerate in his 
family, and has assisted his children to a good start in life, dividing about S 10,000 
among them. He and his wife are members of the Dunkard Church and politically 
he is a Republican. He has always taken an active interest in the promotion of 
good schools and roads, and has l)een a member of the board of education of his 
township. His children are established in life as follows: Christian married 
Susannah Hostetler, by whom he has two children and is a minister of the Dunkard 
Church; Isaac is a farmer of Middlebury township, is married to Mariah Burns and 
has three children; Elizabeth married Joseph Troyer, a carpenter of Goshen, bj' 
whom she has four ehildren; Elias married Annie Hoover, is a farmer of this town- 
ship and has two children; Emeline married Levi Weaver, a farmer of this town- 
ship and has five children; Mary J. married Amos Gripe, a farmer of this section, 
and has seven children (three pairs of twins); Nancy E. married Frank Priser, a farmer 
of the township, and has one child; William married Lula Van Dorsen, and is at 
present residing on the home farm. He is a school teacher by profession but at 
present is attending a Normal College, of Springfield. Ohio; Clara married John 
Zimmerman, a farmer, and has one child. It will thus be seen that Mr. Schrock is 
the grandfather of twenty-five children. All the members of the family are repu- 
table citizens and are an honor to the parents who reared them to useful manhood 
and womanhood. 

Jacob Ritter, of South Bend, Ind., and one of the pioneers of St. Joseph 
county, is a Montgomery county, Ohioan, born about three miles west of Dayton, 
on the 1st of January, 1806, a son of John and Barbara (Garber) Ritter. John 
Kitter was born in North Carolina in April, 1777, and there grew to manhood. 
When a young man he learned the cooper's trade and for some time made that 
his chief occupation. He afterward resided near Nashville, Tenn., for a short 
time and later was a resident of Kentucky. As he was married in Montgomery, 
Ohio, in 1805, he was probably a settler of that locality about the year 1803. At 
the time he crossed the Ohio River at Cincinnati on his way to Ohio, there was 
only a block house and a few cabins where that city now stands, the principal in- 
habitants at that point being soldiers. His wife was born in Virginia, a daughter 
of John and Barbara Garber. About the year 1818 the Ritter family removed to 
Wayne county, Ind., being among the pioneers of that county, where Mr. Ritter 
became the owner of 100 acres of land. Here Mr. Ritter lived for several years. 
He afterward disposed of his property there and settled in St. Joseph county, a 
portion of his land being in Portage and a portion in German township. He after- 
ward settled on the Michigan road in German township, where he lived until his 
death in February, 1807. His wife survived him several years, her death occurring 
at the home of her daughter in Floyd county, Iowa, at the advanced age of one 



198 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGIiAPUICAL 

hutulitHl and two vonrs. Mr. and Mrs. Eitter were the parents of the following 
children: Jacob, Michael, John. Benjamin. David, Samuel. Martin, Sarah and 
Susan, all of whom are liviuj:; but John, who served three years as cavalryman ia 
the late war under Gen, Custer. Jacob Ritter, whose name is at the head of this 
sketch, was about twelve years of age when his parents settled in Wayne county, 
and there and in his native county he succeeded iu obtaining a practical education 
in the conuuon schools, which were held in the old-time log cabin. He was reared 
on a farm, and has always devoted his attention to that occupation. In Wayne 
countv he united his fortunes with those of Elizabeth Miller October '1(S, 18'2t), her 
birth "having occurred in Montgomery county, Ohio, June o, 1809, she being a 
daui'hter of David and Sarah (^Hardman) Miller, who also became pioneers of St. 
Jos(H>h county. Ind. In the spring of 1S30 Mr. Ritter came to this county also, 
and found himself iu Portage Prairie ou April o of that year, and located on a 
farm of eighty acres in Section 32, which he had previously selected iu the fall 
of lS2it, at wliich time he also became the owner of eighty acres of timber land. 
A number of other families came at the same time, and that year they all raised 
quite good crops of corn. Several of these settlers combined work and in 1830 
seeded about 200 acres to corn, which Mr. Ritter says became the finest crop 
of sod corn he has ever seen produced in any country. That year they also 
raised some magniticent melons and turnips, but he refuses to disclose their ex- 
act size and weight for fear people of the present day would be inclined to 
doubt his veracity. He erected a log cabin on his property in German town- 
ship. Section 2i''." in the fall of 1831, where he lived for many years, and which 
he still owns. In 18t5t> he retired from active labor and purchaseil property in 
South Bend, where he is now residing. He also owns 342 acres of land, and is 
nicely situated to enjoy life. He and his worthy wife became the parents of a 
good old-fashioned family of fourteen children: Lueinda (deceased), Barbara, 
Sarah A. (deceased), Amanda E., Martha E., Aaron M., William H. H., David M., 
John X., Benjamin F., Theodore (deceased"). Lorinda and Clarinda (twins") and 
Elizabeth M. Of these children, Amanda E.. Martha E., William H, H. and 
Elizabeth M. are residents of this county: Barbara, now wife of Joseph Hard- 
man, is living at Prairie City, Grant Co., Ore.; Aaron M. and David M. are farm- 
ers near Spi-ingtield, Mo. ; John N. is engaged in the practice of law and in bank- 
ing at Columbus, Kan. ; Benjamin F. , a farmer and dealer in agricultural imple- 
ment's, re.sides in Castleton, Cass Co., X. D. Lorinda, wife of Q. A. Bulla, lives 
near St. Edward. Boone Co., Neb., and Clarinda. who married J. F. Buchtel, is liv- 
ing iu Kansas City, Mo. Two sons, William H. H. and David, served three years dur- 
ing the war in the t weuty-tirst Indiana Battery, under command of Capt. Andrews. Mrs. 
RiUer die^l February 20, iSliT, and in 1872 Mr. Ritter took for his second wife Ellen 
Lentz, born February 20, 1831, in Pennsylvania, daughter of Christopher and Han- 
nah (Davis) Lentz, who were of Scotch descent, Christopher Lentz was a soldier 
in the War of 1812. and for many years was a resident of German to\vnship. where he 
lived until his death, which occurred August 14, 1838. His widow survived him until 
October 27. 18tji). Mr. Ritter is a member of the I. O. O. F., having joined that order 
alx>ut the year 1850. He has always been a great reader, and possesses a well-stored 
mind. He rather favors the fniversalist doctrine iu his religious views, and in polities 
has always been an ardent Democrat. His record as an honorable man of affairs has 
reiuaiued untarnished, and as a citizen he has always been public spirited and law 
abiding. 

George Wittek has been a resident of St. Joseph county. Ind., for many years, 
in fact, was one of the very earliest settlers of the region, but was Ixiru iu t'nion 
countv, Ind.. October 23. 1817, to John and Anna (Mayer") "Witter, the former of 
whom was born October 23. 1782. in Lancaster county, Penn. Christopher Witter, 
the father of John, was born July o, 1756. It is thought that the parents of 
Christopher came from Germany. Christopher was a farmer by occupation and was 



MEMOIRS OF I y DIANA. 199 

reared in his native State, where be resided the greater part of Lis life. His wife, 
Mary, was born March 9, 1763, and bore her husband nine children. She died 
in Pennsylvania many years since. Mr. Witter died in Union county, Ind. , about 
the year 1822. John Witter grew to mature years in the State of bis birth and 
devoted his time to farming. He was married May 25, 1803, to Anna Mayer, bom 
March 5, 1783, in Pennsylvania, daughter of John Mayer. Shortly after their 
marriage they became residents of Union county, Ind,, where Mr. Witter entered 
160 acres of land which was covered with a heavy growth of timber. He cleared 
a small space, erected a log cabin and there the family lived for several years. 
Here Mrs. Witter died, November 15, 1832, leaving the following children: Saiuuel, 
Elizabeth, Catherine, John, Sarah, Jacob, George, Abraham, Mary, Anna and 
Susan. In May, 1833, Mr. Witter and children removed to this county and 
settled in German township, on the west side of Portage Prairie, having previously 
entered 160 acres of land there. Shortly after coming to German townsbij) he 
entered eighty acres for SI 00 and later secured forty acres of timber land for ?50. 
The work of the pioneer was again gone through in erecting buildings and 
improving wild land, but Mr. Witter's former experience was of great benefit to 
him and be made rapid headway in his improvements. This farm continued to be 
his home until his death. May 23, 1864. The eldest son, Samuel, had married in 
Union county, Ind., and in 1830 settled in Cass county, Mich., but a few years later 
became a farmer of German township, St. Joseph county, Ind., where he lived many 
years, his death occurring in South Bend. George Witter, the immediate sul^ject 
of this sketch, was reared in his native county until sixteen years of age, during 
which time be secured a practical education in the subscription schools then in 
vogue, and for two winter terms attended the district schools of German township. 
He assisted in the tedious and laborious task of improving the home farm, and to 
this end split rails, grubbed and followed the plow. Under these conditions be 
attained manhood, and, during his long residence here, has seen almost the entire 
development of the county, and witnessed its transformation from an almost unbroken 
wilderness into a thickly populated region, dotted with magnificent and highly cul- 
tivated farms. On the 16tb of Feljruary, 1840, he was married to Sarah Miller, 
a native of Wayne county, Ind., bom November 1, 1822, a daughter of David and 
Sarah (Hard man) Miller. After their marriage they settled on a farm which Mr. 
Witter bad purchased, consisting of eighty acres in the northern part of Section 30. 
Here be lived for twenty years. In 1860 he traded this land for a farm in Warren 
towrLship, where he lived thirty-sis years. In 1886 he located on the farm on which 
he is residing at the present time, consisting of seventy- four acres. He still owns 
195 acres in Warren township. Since the organization of the Republican party he 
has always voted that ticket, and previous to that time was a Whig. He has held 
various township ofBces, in all of which he has discharged his duties in an intelligent 
and capable manner. Mr. and Mrs. Witter are the parents of twelve children: 
Aaron, Albert, Martin, George I., Harrison, Adaline, Lucinda, Caroline, living, and 
the following who are deceased: Elizabeth A., Mary E., Phoebe J. and John W. 
Mr. and ilrs. Witter are meml)ers in good standing of the German Baptist Church, 
in which they have kept the faith for many years. They have brought up their chil- 
dren to be an honor to them and in the good graces of their acquaintances hold a 
prominent place, as they fully deserve to do. 

JoNATH.ix Balteat. The agricultural part of any community is the bone and 
sinew from which come the strength and vigor necessary to carry on the affairs 
of manufacture, commerce and the State. When the farming people are comjKjsed 
of men and women of courage, enterprise, intelligence and integrity, pros])erity 
will attend all departments of activity and this is pre-eminently the case in Elk- 
hart county, Ind., and among those who hold high rank as a tiller of the soil is 
Mr. Balyeat, who springs from a good old colonial family of Pennsylvania. The 
family tree took root on American soil when a number of brothers came from 



200 PJCTOUIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

the liver Rhone in France and settled in '■ Perm's Woodland." Thej- were young 
men, were married in the land of their adoption and three of the brothers settled 
in Philadelphia where they engaged in the foundry business, and the other brother 
became a farmer. From these three brothers descended all the Balyeats in the 
United States, who are now scattered throughout the length and breadth of the 
land, and among their numbers may be found prosperous farmers, business men and 
members of the learned professions. The Balyeats have been patriots and soldiers 
in all the American wars. George Balyeat, the grandfather of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in Pennsylvania, was a farmer of Schuylkill county in the Mauch 
Chunk Valley. He was the father of twelve children: Stephen, Leonard, George, 
Henry, Daniel, Eve, Jonas, Jacob, David and Joseph, besides two whose names can 
not be recalled. They all lived to a ripe old age and reared families, the death of 
Stephen occurring at the age of ninety- four years. George Balyeat died on his 
farm in Pennsylvania, an aged and respected man. Jonas, his son, was born on the 
old homestead in Schuylkill county, Penn., July 25, 1798, and, for his day, received 
a fair German education, and afterward became a German school teacher in the 
State of his birth. The Balyeats had, for generations, inter-married with the Ger- 
mans of Pennsylvania, and in this way lost all knowledge of the French language, 
and the spelling of their name also became corrupted from the French name Balliet, 
to Balyeat and other forms. When a young man of twenty, Jonas Balyeat went to 
Westmoreland county, Penn., to collect a note of S300 which his father gave him, 
and thinking he could find the part}-, he proceeded on foot through the wilderness 
to western Pennsylvania, but did not succeed in finding his man. He found a wife, 
however, in the person of Miss Catherine Hum, their marriage being celebrated in 
Westmoreland county. Their marriage resulted in the birth of a very large family 
of eighteen children, fifteen of whom reached honorable manhood and womanhood: 
David, Jacob, Abraham, Jonathan, Sarah, Aaron, Eliza. Phcebe, Moses, Joshua, 
Benjamin, Emanuel, Reuben, Mary and Marquis. After residing one year in West- 
moreland county, Jonas Balyeat (in 1820) moved to Richland county, Ohio, where 
he settled in the wilderness, cleared up a farm, reared his family and passed the re- 
mainder of his days. He and his wife were devout members of the Baptist Church, 
and he assisted in founding the Baptist Church in Richland county, in which he 
was deacon for fifty-eight years, and gave lilDerally of his means in its support. 
He was principally noted for his religious character and honorable course in life, 
and by his own efforts became the owner of 300 acres of land, which comprised the 
homestead, as well as a large amount of wild land in Van Wert county, Ohio, on 
which a number of his children have since settled and are now living. He assisted 
his children to a start in life, and upon his death left an estate to be divided among 
them and the heritage of an untarnished name. The latter years of his life were 
spent in retirement from the active work in the town of Van Wert, Ohio, where he 
died in the eighty-eighth j'ear of his age. universally lamented. Throughout life 
he was a stanch Republican in his political views, was a strong Abolitionist during 
the war and was a stanch supporter of the Union cause, four of his sons and one 
grandson serving in the Federal army. Abraham was a lieutenant in the 100 days' 
service, and was stationed in Maryland at Point Lookout; Benjamin was an orderly 
sergeant in the same service and died of sickness contracted while discharging his 
duties; Reuben M. was an orderly sergeant, also stationed at Columbus on guard 
duty, and Marquis L. was in Battery D, Ohio Light Artillery, served two years and 
was in several battles, among which was the Wilderness. Following this battle he 
was taken sick from exposure, after which he was made hospital steward. Jonathan 
Balyeat, the son of Jonas and the subject of this notice, was born on his father's 
farm in Richland, Ohio, February 22, 1824; was reared a farmer, and for the times 
in which he lived, received a good common-school education. On June 26, 1845, 
he was united in marriage to Margaret, the daughter of John and Catherine (Lewis) 
Gates, the former of whom was a son of John Gates, who was of English descent 




^. /TK / 




,^M. 



MEMOIRS OF TXDIANA. 303 

and came of old colonial stock, the family having resided in the vicinity of Tren- 
ton, N. J. , for generations. At the age of sixteen years he became a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war, after which he was married to Margaret Marion, a native of 
Germany, who came with her parents to America at the age of four years. John 
Gates was a farmer and after a time moved with his family to Ohio, of which State 
they were among the pioneers. He reared a family of twelve children and lived to 
the extreme old age of ninety-nine years, his wife attaining the very advanced age 
of one hundred and one years. John Gates, Jr., the father of Mrs. Balyeat, was 
born in Sussex, N. J. ; was there married and by his wife became the father of seven 
children: Martin, Elizabeth, Margaret. Samuel, Jacob, Fannie and Huldah. Mr. 
Gates was a substantial farmer of Richland county, Ohio, and here he passed all 
his days and died at the age of sixty-live years. He was a man of strict integrity 
of character, was sheriff of his county and held other responsible positions also. 
After his marriage Jonathan Balyeat settled on some wild land in Van Wert county, 
Ohio, in 1846; cleared his land from timber and made a good farm of 120 acres. 
He did a vast amount of hard work during the nineteen years that he resided on 
that farm, but the farm became very valuable ere he sold it. There all his children 
were born: Elizabeth A., John W., Catherine J., Ansavilla, Marion A., (who died 
at the age of twenty-seven years), Walter R. , Edmund A. and Frank E. John W. 
was a soldier in an Ohio regiment during the Civil war; served in the 120 days' serv- 
ice and did guard duty at Point Lookout, Md. In 1865 Mr. Balyeat settled on 
his present farm, which has been his home ever since. He and his wife are members 
of the Baptist Church, in which he has filled the office of treasurer. His good 
judgment is respected by the people, and he has filled the office of justice of the 
peace for four years, and has adjusted the difficulties of his neighbors with im- 
partiality and intelligence. The principles of the Republican party are the ones 
which most fully recommend themselves to his judgment as worthy of his sanction, 
and his general information is extensive and enlightened. His son, John W., 
who is a farmer of lona county, Mich. , married Miss Sarah Cramer, by whom he 
has two children. Catherine J. married John S. Scott, a lumberman of Goshen, 
and is the mother of one child. Ansavilla married William Myers, a farmer of the 
township and has one child. Walter R. is a prominent young business man of 
Nappanee and was born in 1865; after spending many years in clerking in Elkhart 
and Goshen, he went to Nappanee where he opened a grocery store, and has since 
been prominently identified with the mercantile interests of the place; since 1892 
he has been associated in business with his brother-in-law, L. Kohler, and the firm 
is known as Balyeat & Kohler; in 1887 he was married to Ella Snaveley, a 
daughter of E. and Elizabeth Snaveley, of Millersburgh. Edmund A. received 
a liberal education at Hillsdale, Mich., and in medicine in Chicago, and is now 
a practicing physician of Kalamazoo, Mich; he married Mary Walton. Frank 
E. married Mary Hasie, by whom he has one child, and is a druggist of Arkan- 
sas City, Kan. Elizabeth is at home with her parents. 

Cassius Caldwell fir>*t saw the light of day in the town of Burlington, Chit- 
tenden Co.,Vt., February 10, 1817, son of Matthew and Dolly (Knight) Caldwell, the 
former of whom was a native of the " Granite State." His mother, whose maiden 
name was Hannah Humphries, was of Irish descent and attained the advanced age 
of eighty-three years; her death occurring in Vermont about the year 1835. 
Matthew was reared in his native State, but upon reaching manhood went with his 
family to New Hampshire, where he met and married Miss Knight about the year 
1815. She was born on Grand Island, Lake Champlain; her father being a Meth- 
odist minister. The Knight family was of English descent. After the marriage of 
Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell, they made Burlington, Vt., their home for a number of 
years, Mr. Caldwell being engaged in the manufacture of brick. In the fall of 
1836, the family emigrated to Indiana, arriving in South Bend on October 81, 
1836; settling about three miles southwest of the town. Mr. Caldwell had made a 

13 



304 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

trip through this part of the country in 1834, and after the arrival of the family they 
spent the winter of 1S36 at the home of relatives. The following spring IVIi-. 
Caldwell leased some land and began the manufacture of brick, which occupation he 
continued to follow for two years. He then moved to South Bend and continued 
making brick for several years, then gave up the business to purchase a farm in 
German township, where his son Gassius now resides, and where he resided until 
his death. His wife survived him several years, having borne him nine children: 
Abigail. Cassius, James, John, Laura, Maleta A., Cornelia E. . Melville and Wesley. 
All these children are deceased except Maleta A. (Roe), of South Bend, and 
Cassius. The latter was reared in his native State and there received a fair educa- 
tion in the district schools. He also attended De Pauw University at Greencastle, 
Ind., one term after coming to South Bend, which institution at that time was 
known as Asbnry University. Mr. Caldwell was about nineteen years of age when 
his parents came to South Bend, and upon his father's removal to the farm in Ger- 
man township, he took charge of the brick yard at South Bend, which business oc- 
cupied his attention until 1S4S. In the fall of this year he decided to seek his 
fortune in the newly discovered gold fields of California, and had nearlv completed 
arrangements for the trip via New York and the Isthmus, or " round the Horn," 
when acquaintances in South Bend made arrangements to go across the plains, and 
Mr. Caldwell abandoned his original idea aud joined a company of thirty-one 
members which left South Bend. February 20. 1849. with ox teams. Schuyler 
Colfax, who was a young man at that time, made a farewell speech to the departing 
gold-seekers from the second story of what was known as the old Washington Build- 
ing. The trip to the Missouri Kiver was attended with many drawbacks and de- 
lays, owing to bad roads, etc., as it was May 11, wheu they crossed the ''Big 
Muddy." From that time on the party made very good time considering their mode 
of travel, and arrived iu the gold section of California September 5. 1849. Mr. 
Caldwell's trip to that section was successful insofar as his expenses and time were 
concerned, and upon returning home he brought with him some money which he 
had earned. His return to the States was by way of the Isthmus. He located in South 
Bend, where he made his home until 18 — , when he settled on the farm in German 
township, where he is at present residing, although he still retains his South Bend 
property. At the time the town was organized as a city, he was elected street 
commissioner, in which capacity he served six years, and also served as assessor of 
South Bend one year. Mr. Caldwell was married, January '1^, 1857, to Miss Rachel 
West, who was born October 17. 1830. in Pennsylvania; a daughter of Abraham and 
Anna (Ross) West, the former of whom served seven years iu the Revolutionary 
war. Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell are the parents of three children: Charles \V.. John 
E. and Matthew S. Mr. Caldwell is the owner of ninety-sis acres of land, nearly 
all of which is in a fine state of cultivation, situated on the banks of the St. Joseph 
River. Mr. Caldwell and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
and politically he is a Republican. His life, with the exception of his trip to Cali- 
fornia, has been rather uoeveutful. but he has always shown those qualities which 
mark the useful, progressive and law-abiding citizen, and has many warm friends 
wherever he is known. 

Jebemi.4H Tboter is a practical farmer and substantial citizen of Elkhart county, 
Ind., has real estate embracing 233 broad acres, the result of persevering and hon- 
orable toil. He is descended from " Swisslanders"' who settled in Pennsylvania during 
a very early period of this country's existence, and in their religious proclivities 
were Amish Mennonites, for which reason they had to fly from their native land and 
seek an asylum in the wilds of the New World. They were followers of Simon 
Meno and a religious teacher by the name of Amou; were peaceful, law-abiding 
citizens, and their descendants, who are scattered all over the United States, are 
industrious, thrifty and upright farmers. John Troyer, the grandfather of Jere- 
miah Troyer, was born in Somerset county, Penn., but he became one of the early 



ifEMOIRS OF lyniASA. 205 

•settlers of Holmes county, Ohio, was one of the first Amish Mennonites to settle there 
and was an honorable, hard-working farmer until his death. He was married to 
Madalena Miller who bore him six children: Samuel, Michael, Abraham, John, Mary 
and Sarah. The eldest of these children, Samuel, was born and brought up on his 
father's farm in Somerset county, Penn., and in his youth learned to read and write 
German. He was twelve yearsof age when he settled with his parents on their pioneer 
farm in Holmes county, Ohio, and was but fourteen years of age when the head of 
the house was called from life. He then began making his home with an uncle, Mr. 
Miller, and being not unfamiliar with the hardships and struggles of pioneer life 
on a farm, he early imbibed the ideas of independence and industry which are essen- 
tial to a successful career in any calling. Born on a farm, he involuntarily grew up 
with a better knowledge of agricultural affairs than one who was not reared to the 
life, and at an early period he was made to feel that he was equally responsible for 
harmony, justice and equity in governmental affairs as in social relations. He 
received the rudiments of his education in the district schools in Holmes county, and 
when mauhood was reached he led to the altar Miss Madalena Hostetter, after which 
he at once settled on a farm, and set energetically to work to accumulate a compe- 
tency for himself and increasing family. His wife died in Holmes county after hav- 
ing become the mother of seven children: Madalena (who died after attaining 
womanhood), Jeremiah. Lydia, Sarah. Samuel, Barbara and Annie. Mr. Troyer's 
second marriage was celebrated in Fairfield county, Ohio, Miss Esther Stutzman 
becoming his wife and in process of time the mother of his four children: John, 
Adam, Jonathan and Daniel. About 1836 Mr. Troyer removed with his family to 
Indiana and settled on the west line of Elkhart county, which was then a wilderness 
abounding in game, such as deer, wild turkey, wolves, etc. Out of the heavy tim- 
ber of that section Mr. Troyer carved a home for himself and family, but at the 
end of three years was left a widower for the second time. Later he returned to 
Holmes county, Ohio, where he took for himself a third wife in the person of Mrs. 
Sarah (Schrock) Yoder, the widow of Abram Toder, and their union resulted in the 
birth of eight children: Yost, Simon, Moses, Joel, Susan, Benjamin, Eli and Eliza- 
beth. Thus Mr. Troyer was the father of nineteen children, a family like the patri- 
archs of old. Mr. Troyer eventually became a resident of Miami county, Ind. , on a 
farm in which section he passed the remainder of his life, dying at the age of 
seventy-three years. He was a man of many sterling traits of character and his 
career was characterized by geniality and large-heartedness as well as the most 
unswerving honor. Jeremiah Troyer, son of Samuel, and the subject of this sketch, 
was born on his father's farm in Holmes county, Ohio, and although he received but 
little education he can read and write German. His early days were devoted to the 
farm and to carpentering and since his seventeenth year he has been a resident of 
the " Hoosier State. " When he had attained his majority he returned to Holmes 
county and was married there on February 4, 1851, to Mary, daughter of Joseph C. 
and Mary (Hostetter) Troyer, after which he returned to Indiana and purchased 
land in Miami county. In 1874 he removed to La Grange county, but since 1887 he 
has been a resident of his present farm, which is one of the best and most fertile in 
the county. His property has been obtained by the sweat of his brow and he has the 
satisfaction of knowing that it has not been obtained at the expense of others. A 
good old-fashioned family of fourteen children were born to himself and wife: Cor- 
nelius, Lydia, Mary, Sarah, Samuel, Susan, Barbara, Polly (who died after reach- 
ing womanhood), Jeremiah, Abraham (died in infancy). John, Elizabeth, Moses and 
David. Mr. Troyer, like his father before him. has always been an earnest Chris- 
tian, and by precept and example has reared his family to honorable manhood 
and womanhood, in which labor of love he was ably seconded by his worthy wife. 
She was born in Holmes county, Ohio, November 29. 1832, and died April 26, 1890. 
The Troyers have always been noted for their excellent characters and as law-abid- 
ing and public-spirited citizens. 



206 PICTORIAL .\yi) BIOGRAPUICAL 

Jacob H. Chirhabt, deceased. In recounting the forces that have combined t» 
make Elkhart county, lud., what it is, more than a passing reference must be made 
to the life and labors of Jacob H. Chirhart, of whom it may be truthfully said that 
no one has done more to lay the foundation of the county's prosperity deep, and to 
build upon them surely and well. Mr. Chirhart was by birth a member of that 
valiant army of "Ohio men" who have had so potent an influence upon the country, 
his birth occurring at Canton on December 19, 1836, the son of Apollinaris and 
Mary (Meyer) Chirhart, the former of whom died at Canton when Jacob was about 
six months old. In 1845 the latter removed to St. Joseph county with his mother 
and settled in Harris township, but in 1865 took up his residence in Clay township, 
where agriculture received the greater part of his attention until his death, which 
occurred February 11, 1885. While a resident of Clay township he held the posi- 
tion of supervisor, and in everything to which he devoted his attention he was 
eminently successful, being especially so as a tiller of the soil, for prior to his death 
he had become the owner of 300 acres of land, the estate at present consisting of 
about 200 acres. On January 10, 1865, Mr. Chirhart won for his wife Miss Mary 
M. TaUey, their union taking place at Notre Dame. She was born on August 22, 

, in Hartford, Conn., to Alfred M. and Mary (Taylor) Talley, the former of 

whom was born in Augusta, Ga., February 19, 1806. When a lad he went to 
Charleston, S. C, and learned the printer's trade, which he followed many years. 
He was married in Hartford, Conn., January 15, 1832, to Mary Taylor, daughter of 
Solomon and Mary (Hawthorne) Taylor. In the early part of 1835 Mr. Talley 
removed to Chicago and purchased 106 acres of land near Evanston, for which he 
paid $1.50 per acre. He purchased this land with the intention of farrging it and 
erected thereon a house, but shortly afterward entered the employ of John Went- 
worth, as foreman of the Chicago Democrat, at 45 La Salle street, and did an 
extensive business for several years. Joe Forest, who is still living in Chicago, was 
one of the editors. When the war came on the business was closed out. Mr. Tal- 
ley had previously purchased 240 acres in Clay township, St. Joseph county, Ind., 
in the name of his children, and erected the handsome brick residence which adorns 
the property at the present time. At the time the Daily Democrat was discon- 
tinued Mr. Talley removed to his farm in this section, a short distance north of 
Notre Dame, and there conducted the publication of the Ave Maria at the college 
for about live years, he being its first practical manager. It was printed by hand 
press. He contributed much to the foundation and successful continuance of the 
magazine, which is now circulated extensively throughout the world. During the 
residence of Mr. Talley in Chicago he was one of the charter members of the Typo- 
graphical Union and its first president. After continuing the magazine for about 
five years his health failed him and he retired from business pursuits and until his 
death, on November 28, 1870, he resided on his farm. His wife died in Chicago on 
August 31, 1852. After the death of Mr. Talley, whose loss was greatly deplored 
by all who knew him, Mr. Chirhart purchased the estate, and on this same farm 
Mrs. Chirhart is still living. She bore her husband the following children: Mary 
M., Henry A., Edward S., Celia J., Anna C. and Joseph M. Mary M. is the wife 
of George McCreary, and resides in South Bend; Henry A. married Miss Grace 
Pearce, and resides in Chicago; Edward S. is at home and has charge of the farm, 
and the other children also reside with their mother. Mr. Chirhart took a deeper 
interest in matters of a higher character than mere material things, and not only 
won an enviable reputation for public spirit, as shown in his various labors for the 
material and moral advancement of the county, but he was also admired and 
respected for personal and social qualities of the highest order. Mrs. Chirhart and 
family are members of the Catholic Church. 

Joseph J. Stutzman. The remote ancestors of this gentleman were among the 
earliest inhabitants of Pennsylvania, coming to this country from Germany. Chris- 
tian Stutzmau, the grandfather of Joseph J., was born in Somerset county, Penn. , 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 207 

was a farmer by occupation, and was a member of the Amish Mennonite Church. 
Jacob, Christian, Abraham and Elizabeth were his children, the first mentioned of 
whom was born on his father's farm. Although his advantages were not of the best 
for obtaining an education, he possessed a desire to learn, and in time could read 
and write both German and English. He was married to Fannie, daughter of David 
L. Lehman, a Pennsylvania farmer, to which union the following children were 
born: Samuel, Joseph, Moses, Jacob, Elizabeth, Barbara, Magdalena and Harmon. 
In 1867, while in his declining years, he moved from his old home in Pennsylvania, 
where the early part of his life had been passed, and took up his abode in Elkhart 
county, Ind. , where he was called from life in 1873. Like the majority of Germans he 
was industrious and hard working, as well as strictly honorable, and the lesson which 
his life taught was that success in life is the reward of honest effort, industry and 
sobriety. He was no idler or trifler, but an earnest, conscientious and persistent 
toiler, who deserved all the success which he achieved. His fine farm of 400 acres 
in Pennsylvania was very valuable, the proceeds from which aided his heirs very 
materially in gaining a foothold on the ladder of success. Joseph J. Stutzman was 
born on this farm December 22, 1839, his early education being only such as the 
common schools afforded; but during his walk through life he has acquired a thor- 
ough education in the great school of experience. He was married to the daughter 
of David C. and Susan (Miller) Yoder, Rachel Yoder, and a family of eight chil- 
dren gathered about their hearthstone in the coiirse of time: Daniel, Susan, Fannie, 
Jeremiah, Levi, Joseph, David and Edward, the two eldest of whom were born in 
Pennsylvania. Although Mr. Stutzman owned a fine farm of 300 acres in Pennsyl- 
vania, he thought to better his financial condition by removing westward, and the 
year 1866 is the date of his arrival in Indiana. He first purchased 160 acres of 
land, and by the exercise of all his energy, enterprise and judgment he has become 
the owner of 360 acres, and with the improvements that have been made upon it, 
constitutes one of the most valuable tracts of real estate in the county. Mr. Stutz- 
man has been a deacon in the Mennonite Church for twelve years, and is in every 
sense of the word a true Christian gentleman. His children have been given good 
educational advantages, and on various occasions he has served in the capacity of 
school director. As a citizen his good name is above reproach, and he can be truly 
said to be that nolilest work of God — an honest man. His career has been useful in 
the best sense of the term, and although he has never been ambitious to fill public 
office he has pursued the "even tenor of his way," and the result of his undivided 
attention is his comfortable and well-kept home. His father-in-law. David C. 
Yoder, came of Amish Mennonite stock, and was born in Somerset county, Penn. 
After attaining manhood and receiving a common-school education he was married 
to Susan Miller, who bore him twelve children: Polly, Rachel, Valentine, Catherine, 
Levi, David, Jacob, Susan, Jeremiah, Tobias, Annie and Samuel. Mr. Yoder owned 
a fine farm of 200 acres in Pennsylvania, but became a resident of Indiana in 1869. 
He was a highly respected citizen, and his death at the age of seventy years was 
universally regretted. 

Lewis Goolet, deceased. When a citizen of worth and character has departed 
from this life, it is meet that those who survive him should keep in mind his life work, 
and should hold up to the knowledge and emulation of the young his virtues and the 
characteristics which distinguished him and made hira worthy the esteem of his 
neighbors. Therefore, the name of Lewis Gooley is presented to the readers of this 
volume as a public-spirited citizen and an agriculturist of sound judgment. He was 
born in France, August 15, 1813, a son of Dewalt and Barbara Gooley, and when 
fifteen years of age came with them to America and settled on a farm in Stark county, 
Ohio, where the father and mother spent the remainder of their days. Lewis grew 
to manhood in Stark county, and aboiit the year 1845 came to St. Joseph county 
and took up his residence on a sixty-acre tract of land in Clay township, but by 
good management he afterward added to the same until he became the owner of 



308 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

about 200 acres before his death. He was married, April 14, 1845, to Sarab 
Shilling, who was born March 14, 1823, near Oil City, Penn., a daughter of Fred- 
erick and Mary (Rees) Shilling, natives of Switzerland, who came to America when 
young and settled in Pennsylvania, where they made their home until their respective 
deaths. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Gooley, they came to St. Joseph county 
and settled on the farm which Mrs. Gooley still occupies. There Mr. Gooley was 
called from life on March 20, 1887. He was alw.-.ys noted for his industry, was a 
good business manager and acquired a considerable amount of property, leaving to 
his family a comfortable competency at the time of his death. A family of ten chil- 
dren were born to Mr. Gooley and his wife, the following only of whom are living: 
Jacob, Lewis, at home, and David. The seven children who are dead were taken away 
by that dread disease — quick consumption — deeply mourned by the remainder of the 
family. Mrs. Gooley has suffered greatly in thus losing her husband and children, 
but is devoting herself to the remainder of her family and to her many friends. 

George W. Showalteh. As a pioneer, Mr. Showalter has left his impress upon 
Elkhart county, Ind., and to no one who has any knowledge of the history of that 
section, is his name an unfamiliar one. For more than forty years he has 
resided on his present farm, and during this time he has been a leading spirit in 
promoting the material growth and prosperity, as well as building up the religious, 
educational and benevolent institutions of his locality. He comes of sturdy Ger- 
man ancestry, for, according to tradition, four of his name came from that country to 
America and settled in Pennsylvania, and for many years his grandfather was a suc- 
cessful farmer in the vicinity of Schuylkill. His sons bore the good old Scriptural 
names of Jacob, John and David, the latter of whom became the father of the sub- 
ject of this sketch. He was reared on his native soil of Pennsylvania and became a 
soldier in the War of 1812, during which time his health became permanently 
injured. He was married to Agnes Linville and to them was born a family of the 
good old-fashioned order, consisting of twelve members: Benjamin, Matthias, John, 
David, George, William, Lewis, Melvina. Ann, Catherine, Margaret and Sarah. 
After residing for some time near the old homestead in Pennsylvania, Mr. Showal- 
ter removed to Rockingham county, Va., and liecame the owner of two good farms 
at Cross Keys, near the head of the Shenandoah River. His efforts to secure a 
competency for his family were crowned with success, and his two farms of 101 
and 250 acres, respectively, were conducted in a manner which could not fail to 
result satisfactorily. He lived to be seventy-five years of age, dying in the faith of 
the Mennonite Church, in which he had " kept the faith " for many years. His wife 
was a Methodist. George ^\'. Showalter was born on his father's farm in Virginia, 
March 11, 1825, and throughout his youth and early manhood he helped to till and 
make other improvements on the farm, and a common-school education represented 
the sum total of his accomplishments when he began life for himself. All old-time 
farmers considered themselves entitled to the services of their sons up to the time 
they reached the age of twenty-one, and Mr. Showalter's experience was no excep- 
tion to the rule. In addition to becoming familiar with the principles of agricult- 
ure, he learned the cooper's and carpenter's trades, and to these occupations he gave 
his time and attention. In 1851 he left the shelter of the parental roof and set out 
for the then wilds of Indiana and so pleased was he with the promises offered to 
the agriculturist that he purchased the fine estate on which he is now residing. 
Time has shown the wisdom of this investment, for his land has always produced 
good crops and has yielded a comfortable competency. After making the purchase 
of his land he returned to his home in Virginia and married Margaret, daughter of 
William and Margaret (AltafFer) Saufley, their union taking place January 10, 1854, 
and with his young bride returned to his Indiana possessions, which consisted of 
137 acres of land, and which they reached in March, 1855. In time the following 
children were born to their union: William R., Mary, Maggie, Libbie, Edson 
and Franklin. Edson was born September 6, 1860; was reared on his father's 



MEiWTiis OF lyniAy.i. 209 

farm and has been a tiller of the soil and a carpenter for six years. The parents 
are members of the New School Lutheran Church and the father is now classed 
among the honored old settlers of Elkhart county. The mother was called from 
life on June l-t, 189'2. having been a worthy Christian all her life. Edson Showal- 
ter was married February 6, 1888, to Miss Orpba, daughter of Silas and Margaret 
(Dally) Shoup. By her he has two children: Leo R. and Noble L. Edson Sho- 
walter owns, in comjiany with his brother, William E., 148 acres of land, is indus- 
trious, honorable and pushing and a man highly esteemed in the community in which 
he resides. William R. was born on his grandfather's farm in Rockingham county, 
Va. , January 9, 1855, and was an infant two months old when brought by his 
parents to Indiana. In his youth he was considered one of the best scholars in his 
district. October 1, 1884, he was married to Frances, daughter of John and Cath- 
erine (Jacolia) Wert, and to them four children have been born: Earl S., Clayton 
W., Irwin E. and Edna I. Like his brother he is a public-spirited man, honest, 
industrious and successful, and politically is a Democrat. His wife is one of the 
following fainily of children: Emeline, Mary J., Caroline, Catherine, Adeline, 
Leah, Josiah, Jeremiah, Lucinda. John, David, Frances, William and Cyrus. Our 
subject has been master of Middlebury Grange for two years. The Showalters are 
a religious people and have always been associated with the Lutheran Church. 

Abel E. Work. A short time prior to the great American Revolution the Work 
family tree took root in American soil. At that time the grandfather of the subject 
of this sketch, Samuel Work, came from County Antrim. Ireland, to take up his 
abode upon a new soil and in a foreign land. He was of Scotch-Irish birth, and 
was married on the Isle of Erin to Jane Dunn, who bore him the following children: 
Aaron, Robert, Samuel, Elizabeth, Margaret and Jane, all natives of America, to 
which country Mr. Work brought his young bride soon after their marriage. At the 
opening of the Revolutionary war they were residing on a farm near Philadelphia, 
Penn., and from here Samuel Work at once enlisted in the patriot army, serving 
until the struggle ended. Later he disposed of his property in Pennsylvania and 
after several moves finally found himself in Fairfield county, Ohio, in 1812, where he 
lived only until 1817, when death finished his earthly career. He was a Presbyterian 
in his religious views. His son Aaron, the father of the subject of this sketch, was 
born in Chester county, Penn., and as his father was identified with the agricultural 
growth of the section in which they resided, his early life was much the same as 
that of other boys of his age and generation — he was a farmer's boy purely and 
simply, doing his part of the necessary work about his rural home. In time he took 
for himself a wife in the person of Millicent, daughter of Abel and Bridget 
(McMurtny) Everett, the former of whom also participated in the war of the Revo- 
lution, and was in the battle of Monmouth, where he saw Gen. Washington and his 
staff ride through a wheat field. A family of eight children have l)een born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Work: Abel E., Samuel, William, James, Martha, Jane, Mary and Eliza- 
beth, all of whom were born in Fairfield county, Ohio. Mr. Work passed a useful 
life on his well-tilled farm in Fairfield county, and at the ripe old age of eighty 
years was called to his fathers, his wife living to be four years older. He was a man 
of lofty character, possessed exceptionally sound and practical views on all subjects, 
and for sixteen years of his life much of his time was devoted to adjusting his neigh- 
bors' difficulties as justice of the peace. He was an elder in the Presbyterian Church, 
in which church his wife was also a member. Abel E. Work, the immediate sub- 
ject of this biography, was born on the 29th of June, 1815, received a common- 
school education and learned the blacksmith's trade. They started out to tight life's 
battles well equipped morally, mentally and physically for the active duties of life, 
and endowed by nature with that splendid courage and resistless energy which has 
been so important a factor in the advancement of western civilization. He removed 
to Middlebury township, Elkhart Co., Ind. , in 1842, and for thirty-six years worked 
faithfully at his trade of blacksmith. He also purchased land and earnestly tilled 



210 PICTORfAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

the soil, aud by the exercise of his admirable mental faculties he has uow a fine farm 
of 105 acres. On the 15th of September, 1836, he was married to Miss Cynthia 
Larimer, who was born March 22, 1814, a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Larimer. 
The children that in time gathered about the board of Mr. and Mrs. Work are as 
follows: Aaron, born May 26, 1837: Isaac L. , born December 16, 1838; John W., 
born January 11, 1841; Samuel, born February 26, 1843; James, born February 15, 
1845; William C, born June 19, 1847; Robert W., born June 20, 1849, and Abel 
E., born September 13, 1851. Mr. Work is a stanch Democrat politically, and 
during the lamentable Civil war was a loyal Union man. Two of his sons were in 
the service: Isaac L., who became a member of Company- I, Seventy- fourth Regi- 
ment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in which he enlisted in August, 1862, at Goshen, 
Ind. ; John W.. enlisting the same day in (he same company and regiment. They 
were in one battle, were very much exposed to the inclement weather during the 
hard marching, which resulted in lung disease, from which both died, and are 
buried in the cemetery at Galatin, Tenn. Three sons are members of learned pro- 
fessions: Abel E., graduated from the Theological Seminary at Cincinnati, Ohio, 
and is now a Presbyterian minister in South Dakota; Samuel A., graduated from 
the medical department of the University of Michigan at Ann Harbor, and is now 
a practicing physician at Vandalia, Mich.; James A., graduated from the same insti- 
tution, and is now practicing his profession in Elkhart, Ind. Mr. Work has twenty- 
nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His first wife, and the mother 
of his children, died May 23, 1883, and on June 16, 1885, Mrs. Barbara A. 
(Biddle) Keysor, a widow with two children (Leander S. and Albert A.), became his 
wife. Mr. Work's life has been usefully and profitably spent, and he is well 
posted on the current issues of the day, is wide awake to the interests of his sec- 
tion, and is a man of unblemished reputation. His second wife is a daughter of 
George Biddle, a member of an old Virginia family. Isaac Larimer, his first wife's 
father, was the sou of Robert Larimer, a Scotch-Irishman, who, upon coming to this 
country, was shipwrecked on the coast of Pennsylvania, and although he had paid 
his passage to this country, was sold liy the captain of the rescuing vessel, and was 
compelled to pay his passage again. Robert Larimer became a farmer of Juniata 
county, Penu., but in the latter part of the last century went to Fairfield county, 
Ohio, of which section he was one of the pioneers. Isaac Larimer, his son, was 
married to Elizabeth Wood, daughter of Moses Wr>od, and by her became the father 
of the following children: Robert, John, James, Moses, Isaac, Wright, Sarah, Eliza- 
beth, Phcebe and Cynthia. Isaac Larimer was a soldier in the War of 1812, in 
which struggle his sons, Robert and John, also participated. Robert and his 
father were in Hull's inglorious surrender. He was a substantial farmer, and died 
at about the age of fifty years, in Fairfield county, Ohio. He was a gunsmith by 
trade, and he and his wife became the parents of eleven children; Jacob, Mary, John, 
Valentia, Frederick, Levi, Barbara A. and Elizabeth are still living. 

Very Rev. William Corby, C. S. C. Father Corby was born in Detroit, Mich., 
in 1833. His father, Daniel Corby, was born in King's county, Ireland, in 1798, 
and came to the New World a young, unmarried man. In Montreal, Canada, he 
wedded Miss Stapleton, a lady of rare beauty and numerous Christian virtues. 
She was noted in a special manner for her charity to the poor and infirm. Father 
William Corby was the fifth child of a large family. In early life he attended the 
public or district schools, open a few months each year, and when these schools 
were not in session, the father secured for his children the services of a ])rivate tutor. 
When not occupied with his studies William attended to various humble occupa- 
tions under the direction of a good father who was a man of iron will, frugal in 
habits, a total abstinauce man for more than forty years; thrifty and possessed of a 
liberal store of this world's goods. Mr. Corby determined to give his sons the best 
facilities for acquiring an education and with that object in view he sent William to 
the college of Notre Dame, Ind., where he arrived during the scholastic year 1852-3. 



MEMOIRS OF IKDIjiNA. 211 

When he arrived at Notre Dame he had no intention of joining the Order of the 
Holy Cross, but, captivated by the place, the people and the good work being done 
he determined, with God's help, to devote his life and energy to advancing the cause 
of Christian education. At once he joined the small band directed by the venerable 
Father Sorin, then laying the foundations of a great university in the forests of In- 
diana. Father Corby devoted every hour, even his vacations, to study. He never 
returned home to his father's house until he went as a newly ordained priest, to cele- 
brate his first Mass in his old parish church surrounded by relatives and friends of 
his boyhood. The solemnity of the occasion caused the good old father of the young 
priest to shed tears of joy, and made him feel like a young man again. 

Philosophy was Father Corby's favorite study, and this science he taught with 
success in his alma mater several years. At various terms he was prefect of the 
students, prefect of the study room, prefect of discipline and director of the manual 
labor school. While holding the latter position he attended, Sundays, St. Patrick's 
Church, South Bend. At the breaking out of the war he volunteered his services to 
the famous Irish Brigade of New York. He was appointed their chaplain in 1862, 
and for three years he was with them in all the principal battles fought by the Army 
of the Potomac, under MacClellan, Burnside, Hooker, Meade and Grant. Father 
Corby has now ready for press a book which gives a full account of his thrilling 
experiences during those stormy years. After his return from the war in 1865, he 
was for a few months in charge of St. Patrick's congregation. South Bend. He 
paid the debt on the church, finished and furnished a parochial residence and was the 
first Catholic pastor that ever resided in that city. Father Sorin and the chapter of 
the Order of the Holy Cross, determined to utilize Father Corby's rare executive 
ability by electing him, in 1865, vice president of the University of Notre Dame, 
with Eev. P. Dillon as president. The old members of the faculty used to say the 
two made a "strong team." With great energy the old college of 1842-53 was 
soon changed into the noble building destroyed by fire in 1879. Before the students 
were out of the house at the close of the year, June, 1865, the main Ijuilding and 
the wings were unroofed and later all the inside partitions and floors were taken out, 
leaving nothing except some outer walls. When the students returned the follow- 
ing September they found an imposing edifice 185x85 feet and six stories high, 
ready for class work, although in an unfinished condition. That year there was an 
entrance of over 500 students, not including the boys from the manual labor school 
or seminary. The following year Father Corby was elected president with Father 
Augustus Lemonnieras vice-president. There was a debt on the institution of $97,- 
000 and an unfinished building to be completed. In less than five years this debt was 
paid and $80,000 besides expended on improvements. One of the first acts of 
Father Corby's administration was to remove to old Exhibition Hall to a more 
suitable site and enlarge the play ground from two acres to twenty-five acres, as they 
are at present. He founded the .Notre Dame Scholastic, then called the Scho- 
kistic Year. The first number was published September 7, 1877, good Father 
Gillespie acting as editor. He engaged several persons to draw up a general plan 
for all the college grounds, according to which future buildings should lie erected. 
Two plans were particularly good, one by the Kev. James Dillon, C. S. C, and the 
other by Rev. J. C. Carrier, C. S. C, were submitted to the council. After dit^cussing 
the merits of each. Father Dillon's plan, modified by Father Carrier's idea, was 
adopted. It is on this plan that all the principal buildings have since been erected. 
During Father Corby's administration the law department was established and the 
scientific department commenced under the direction of Rev. J. C. Carrier, one of 
the ablest scientists of our day. Steps were also taken to found a medical depart- 
ment, with Rev. Louis Neron as dean. In 1868 a General Chapter of the Order of 
the Holy Cross held in Rome elected Father Corby provincial for the United States 
in place of Very Rev. Father Sorin, elected superior general of the order through- 
out the world. This office Father Corby held with that of president of Notre 



212 PICTORIAL AM) BIOGRAPHICAL 

Dame until 1872, when another general chapter elected him to establish a branch 
institution at Watertown, Wis. After founding the College of the Sacred Heart, 
now in a flourishing condition under the presidency of Father O'Keefe, C S. C. , 
and building one of the largest churches in that State, he was, in 1877, re-elected 
president of Notre Dame, and shortly after provincial for the second time. Much 
energy was now in demand. Father Corby began his work by naming Rev. Thomas 
E. Walsh vice-president and director of studies, and Rev. Christopher Kelly prefect 
of discipline. Everyone worked hard and tlie college affairs brightened up for a 
while, until April 23, 1879, when the grand old college, with many other buildings, 
was reduced to ashes. The loss was more than a quarter of a million dollars, not 
CTunting priceless treasurers of art aud science. No time could be lost, so all the 
students and faculty were called to the church, about the only building left stand- 
ing, and there Father Corby, with old-time war courage, made a bold, inspiring 
speech, telling all to return the following September, that classes would be 
resumed in a new building far superior to the one then in ashes. Then he 
sent the students to their homes and rushed to Chicago to engage architects. 
Men and teams were put to work before the fire was entirely extinguished. It took 
ninety men and thirty teams several weeks to remove the debris, dig up the old 
foundations, ''not a stone of which was left upon a stone. " Finally Mr. Edbrook, 
the famous Chicago architect, now inspecting architect for the United States Gov- 
ernment, arrived with plans for the new college and in ninety days after the corner- 
stone was laid, the class rooms were thrown open on the first Tuesday of September, 
1879; thus the promise made by Father Corby on the day of the fire was literally 
fulfilled. For the construction of the new building seven brick yards were bought up 
and 350 mechanics and laboring men were employed. Students flocked to Notre 
Dame from all parts of the country, and the university commenced a new era of 
prosperity. Father Corby continued in the presidency until 1881, when his services 
were again demanded at Watertown, Wis. The debt on the lately established branch 
house having increased, he was oliliged to return and help put the establishment on 
a better footing. With considerable vigor he nearly wiped out a debt of $22,000 
and built a tine new parochial residence. In 1885 he was for the third time called 
to fill the office of provincial, which he held until August, 1892, when the General 
Chapter of the order re-elected him provincial superior of the United States and 
first assistant general for the entire world. Father Corby's natural disposition ia 
mild, but with his military experience and his subsequent experience in administra- 
tion, he cultivated, as duty demanded, the quality of firmness. This added to his 
genial disposition, makes him a general favorite. He is one of the most charitable and 
kind-hearted of men, sincere in his friendships and devotedly attached to the society 
of which he is a member. He never forgets a kindness and never stoops to resent 
an injury. Assisted as he is by cheerful, intelligent and willing confreres, who all 
love him, his work gives satisfaction to everyone. As may be seen from the above 
sketch, he is an intelligent organizer and possesses more than ordinary executive 
ability. 

Rev. Benjamin Scheock. This gentleman comes of a good old family of German 
extraction, that was highly honored and respected in the "Keystone State." It is 
a true observation that " There is no royal road to fortune," and this just statement 
is fully verified by a study of the lives of the pioneer farmers of Indiana. When 
such a man as Benjamin Schrock starts out as he did. with no pecuniary help and 
with no fortune except good health, robust strength, and yet succeeds in securing 
a fine property and that degree of competence which allows him to retire from 
business and live in comfort, it can be realized that the old saying has not outgrown 
its lease of life. The paternal grandfather of Benjamin Schrock came from Zwei- 
brucken, Rhenish Bavaria, Germany, in 1780 to America in search of a for- 
tune, settling in Huntington county, Penn. At that time he was the father of 
three children: Jacob, Barbara and Catherine, but his wife bore him three sons and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 81» 

one daughter after their settlement in this country: Andrew, John. David and 
Elizabeth. Mr. Schrock's expectations of realizing a fortune in this country were 
not realized, and he had a hard struggle for many years to keep the wolf from the 
door. He attained the advanced age of four-score years, a member of the Mennonite 
Church, dying at the home of his son, John Schrock, in Holmes county, Ohio, where 
his wife also spent her declining years. John Schrock, their son, was a product 
of Pennsylvania, his birth occurring May 6, 1779, and about 1815, in the early days 
of Ohio he went to that State and carved out a home for himself and family in the 
wilderness. Hordes of Indians roamed over the country at that time, and although 
their lives and property were at various times threatened, they escaped better than 
the majority of early settlers and continued to prosper in spite of adverse circum- 
stances. He became a substantial farmer of the section in which he settled, and 
gave each of his children a good start in life. He was honorable and upright in 
character, kind and considerate in his family, a faithful friend, an accommodating 
neighbor, and on February 16, 1858, died as he had lived, an earnest Christian, having 
attained to the age of sixty-eight years nine months and ten days. His wife was 
born February 11, 1797, and bore her husband the following children: Elizabeth, 
Benjamin, Abraham, Barbara, Magdalena and Susannah. Benjamin Schrock, a 
member of this family, was born February 22, 1819, but owing to his father's 
straitened circumstances he was compelled to labor industriously on the farm during 
the summer months, and his chances for obtaining an education were only such as 
could be obtained while attending school irregularly during the winter seasons. 
He was married in Holmes county, Ohio, to Miss Mary Stutzman, daughter of 
Jonas and Magdalena (Garber) Stutzman, soon after which, as he was a young man 
of pushing energy and ambition, the chances of the West became a temptation that 
could not be resisted, and he determined to make a home for himself on a portion of 
the Indian Reserve. He settled on an uncleared farm in Miami county, Ind., but at 
the end of thirteen years settled three miles north of Goshen, on Pine Creek, then 
in Clinton township, Elkhart county, and six years later, or in 1878. he took up his 
abode on his present fine farm of 200 acres in Middlebury township. He has 
always been an industrious, hard-working man, and has earned his present fine prop- 
erty by the sweat of his brow. His liberal views, unquestioned honesty and rugged 
common sense have given him an influence far beyoud that possessed by many more 
pretentious and prominent men. He has lived a quiet life, looking after the posses- 
sions which a life of industry has secured him, and is in the enjoyment of a comfort- 
able, refined and pleasant home. He has been the architect of his own fortunes, 
and success has been won through hardships and severe toil. For thirty-eight years 
he was a bishop of the Amish Church, but for the past forty years he has been a 
minister of that denomination, and a member of the church for fifty years. He is a 
believer in good schools, and has ever been liberal in the use of his means, and has 
never been guilty of turning one from his door who was really in need of bis aid. 
He has always supported the principles of Democracy. His union with Miss Stutz- 
man has resulted in the birth of eleven children: Abraham is a farmer and black- 
smith of Clinton township, Elkhart county, was married to Miss Sarah Miller, by 
whom he has four children; Jacob B. is a farmer of Kosciusko county, Ind., is 
married to Matilda Eicks, and is the father of four children; John, a farmer of 
Fillmore county. Neb., is married to Anna Garber, and has three children; Annie, 
Elizabeth and Susannah are at home; Benjamin F. is a farmer of Middlebury town- 
ship, is married to Alice Miller, and has two children; Daniel is also a farmer of 
this township, is married to Anna M. Yoder; Absalom is a carpenter of Anderson, 
Ind., and is married to Etta Miller; Mary M. . who is a school teacher in Nebraska, 
and William, who is a farmer of Fillmore county, Neb., is married to Hannah 
Toder, by whom he has seven children. 

John Walmer, Middlebury, Elkhart Co., Ind. The philosophy of success in 
life is an interesting study. In whatever pursuit individual effort is directed, it 



214 PICTORIAL AJSfl) BIOGRAPHICAL 

should be entered with a theoretical knowledge acquired at the proper schools, 
followed by a practical application, to prepare one to successfully assume responsibil- 
ities that follow. In choosing a pursuit in life, taste, mental gifts, opportunity and 
disposition of labor should be considered, as every young man, who has any amViition 
to become a respectable and useful citizen, desires to succeed therein. A narrative 
of success in life affords a lesson from which others can profit. On his father's farm 
in Lebanon county, Penn. , there was born on the 26th of September, 1817, a boy 
who grew up to sturdy manhood, ambitious to excel in the pursuit of his choice, and 
this boy was John Walmer. As he grew to manhood he became thoroughly con- 
versant with pretty much all kinils of farm labor and evinced a fondness for agricult- 
ural pursuits which he has carried with him through life. He received few oppor- 
tunities for the acquirement of an education, but through his own persistency learned 
to read in the German Testament and the Psalter, but acquired no knowledge of 
arithmetic or English except what he obtained in later years by mixing unreservedly 
with his fellows and in conducting the business affairs of life. He only learned to 
count after he had attained man's estate, by splitting rails by the hundred — a rough 
but most thorough school. The first work which he did for himself was at clearing 
land and mauling rails, and in a still-house, but the Juue following his marriage, 
which occurred February 11, 1844, and was to Miss Magdaleua HofF, he and his 
young wife removed to Wayne county, Ind., through the Black Swamp of Ohio, and 
settled one mile south of his present farm, which at first consisted of eighty acres. He 
labored hard to clear this land and in time added eighty acres more, which he tilled 
with great diligence during the summer months. His spare moments during the 
winters were devoted to the making of brooms; in fact, he gladly turned his hand 
to any employment that offered remuneration. Since 1864 he has resided on his 
present farm and is now the owner of 286 acres of good farming land, a -water 
saw-mill and two good lots in Elkhart, on one of which is erected a store and 
on the other a frame residence and stable. Mr. Walmer has been a very strong 
man physically, with an iron constitution, or he could never have borne the hard 
labor he has undergone. It would be difficult to speak too strongly of the useful- 
ness of his life, for he has used his talents wisely and well, and in his active life he 
has found time to embellish his mind with a fund of general wisdom. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Walmer the following children have been born: Amanda E., born February 2, 
1845, married Aaron Work, township trustee, who resides in Elkhart. They have 
three children: Luetta, George and John, the eldest of whom, Luetta, married 
William Barger, a box manufacturer, by whom she has one child, Everet, a great- 
grand-daughter of Mr. Walmer. The latter' s second child and only son, John F., 
was born July 2, 1850, remains with his father and is a practical farmer. The 
mother of these children died August 11, 1887, at the age of sixty-eight years. Mr. 
Walmer has an adopted daughter, Idella J. Poorbaugh, who has lived in the family 
since she was eight years of age. She is a member of the German Reformed 
Church, of which Mr. Walmer is also a member, although his wife was a Lutheran. 
Politically he is a Democrat. He comes of an old Pennsylvania family, members of 
which have been residents of the "Keystone State." (ieorge Walmer, the father 
of the subject of this sketch, was a blacksmith by trade and owned a small farm of 
fortyfive acres. He was married in Pennsylvania to Miss Sarah Fisher and to them 
were born six children: Joseph George, John, Lydia, Catherine and Elizabeth. 
The mother died when her son, John, was a small boy, and the father afterward 
espoused Catherine Shuey, nee Miller, who died April 7, 1877, at the age of ninety 
years, after having borne Mr. Walmer three children: Mariah, Mattie and Benjamin. 
Mr. Walmer settled on a farm in Wayne county, Ohio, in 1836, on which he spent 
the remainder of his days, dying at the age of sixty-eight years, February 10, 1856. 
He was in comfortable circumstances and was a man of unblemished reputation. 
The wife of John Walmer was a daughter of George and Catherine (Hess) Hoff, the 
former of whom was a blacksmith and a substantial farmer. They became the par- 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 315 

ents of the following children: Michael, Levi, George, David, Magdalena, Catharine, 
Ann, Christeua. Mary and Rebecca. Mr. Hoff died on his farm in Wayne county, 
Ohio, December 17, 1865, at the age of seveuty-sis 3'ears, his widow surviving him 
until March 5, 1873, dying at the age of seventy-six years. 

Joseph E. Mulligan. Among the sons of Pennsylvania who have brought with 
them to this western laud the sturdy habits of independence, integrity and industry 
which have ever marked the natives of the Keystone State, it is a pleasure to name 
Mr. MulligaQ, whose beautiful and well-tilled farm of 136 acres (twelve of which is 
in timber), is located within the confines of Clay township. Mr. Mulligan's native 
county was Crawford, where he was born August 2, 1851, to Patrick and Elizabeth 
(Downey) Mulligan, who were natives of County Cavan, Ireland, the birth of the 
father occurring in 1801. He was brought up to a farm life in his native land and 
about the year 1828 was married to Elizabeth Downey. He crossed the ocean to 
America in 1847, and settled in Crawford county, Penn., where he made his home 
until the fall of 1851, when the family removed to near Dayton, Mich., and there 
spent the followiug year. At the end of this time they settled in the southeast part 
of Berrien county, near the line of Cass county, Mich., but in 1859 came to St. Jo- 
seph county, lud. , and took up their residence in Clay township, near Notre Dame. 
In 186-1: they settled on the place where the son Joseph E. now resides, in Section 13, 
where Mr. Mulligan lived until his death, April 4, 1883. His wife survived him 
until April 24, 1883, when she, too, paid the last debt of nature. She presented 
her husband with eight children: Catherine, Owen, Patrick, Ann, Margaret, Mary 
(deceased), Elizabeth and Joseph E. Although Mr. Mulligan was born in Penn- 
sylvania, the greater portion of his life has been spent in St. Joseph county, Ind., as 
he was but eight years of age when his parents came to Clay township. He was 
educated in the public schools of the township, and during the many years that he 
has spent in this section the people have had every opportunitj' to know and judge 
his character and qualifications and naught has ever been said derogatory to either. 
He has devoted his life to farming and in this occupation has been deservedly suc- 
cessful, and is now in command of a comfortable competency. On May 27, 1884, 
he was married to Miss Ellen Haney, who was born April 24, 1862, in Springfield, 
111., the daughter of Patrick and Elizabeth (Stipes) Haney, the former a native of 
Ireland, and the latter of Illinois. The followiug children have been born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Mulligan: Joseph, Edward, Elizabeth, Leo and George. Mr. and Mrs. 
Mulligan are members of the Catholic Church, and the men and measures of the 
Democrat party have always received Mr. Mulligan's support. 

Solomon M. Kauffman. The success which has attended the efforts of Mr. 
Ka\iffman as an agriculturist is by no means a matter of chance, nor was he in 
any sense an especial favorite of fortune, for when he started out in life he began 
at the lowest round of the ladder. In his case fortune smiled upon him because of 
his UQtiring efforts, his close and intelligent application to the ordinary affairs of 
life, and his thrift and enterprise, which were of a character to merit success under 
any circumstances and iu any field of labor. He was born ia Holmes county, Ohio, 
September 20, 1837, being one of the following family of children: Mary, Martha, 
Jonas, Jacob, Solomon, Fannie, Elizabeth, Lydia, Joseph, Rebecca, Moses and John. 
The father of this somewhat numerous family was Moses Kauffman, and their mother 
was Lydia, daughter of John Plank. Both Mr. and Mrs. Kauffman were of Penn- 
sylvania Dutch stock, and for many years the father was a farmer of Somerset 
county, Penn., aud supported his family comfortably, but they never counted on 
being supplied with many of the luxuries of life. Moses Kauffman removed to the 
wilds of Ohio when a j'oaug mau; was married in Holmes county, and without any 
very considerable resources, they settled down to the business of making the best 
of their opportunies, and getting ahead in the world as rapidly as possible, and 
turned their attention to tilling the soil as a sure means of gaining a livlihood. 
After making a few changes they finally came to Elkhart county, Ind., and since 



216 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

1851 have been residents of Middlebury township, where they at one time owned 
280 acres of tine farming land. Being a minister of the Amish-Mennonite Church, 
he reared his children carefully and upon his death in his sixty-eighth year he had 
the unbounded satisfaction of knowingthat they had attained honorable manhood and 
womanhood. The early members of his family were persecuted in Germany on account 
of their religious principles, but upon an invitation from William Penn they sought 
an asylum in the New World and carved a home for themselves in " Penu's Wood- 
laud." The family has grown with the country's growth and has contributed much 
to the thrift, the industry and the prosperity of this country. Solomon M. Kauff- 
man was about fourteen years of age when he became a resident of Elkhart county, 
Ind. , and as much of his time during the years of his boyhood was occupied with 
tasks set him by his parents, who believed in industrial training, his education was 
only such as he was able to obtain in the common schools. However, he was enterpris- 
ing and ambitious, and with indomitable energy and determination, qualities which 
he, no doubt, inherited from his sturdy Dutch ancestors, began laying the founda- 
tions for a successful future, and in the tield of agriculture he has made the best 
use of his talents. He now has a fine and well-kept farm of 203 acres, on which is 
a substantial brick residence with good farm buildings of all descriptions. Novem- 
ber 29, 1866, he was married in Millersburg to Miss Catherine Speicher, who was 
born March 8, 1840, soou after which he settled in the southern part of Middlebury 
township, where he made his home for seven years, then came to his present farm, 
which at that time consisted of 123 acres. To Mr. and Mrs. Kauffman the follow- 
ing children have been born: Charles E., born December 10, 1867; Frank E., De- 
cember 20, 1876; Emma D., May 10. 1879; Cora M. , September 8, 1873; Mary E., 
May 24, 1872; Fred L., born July 10, 1882, died February 13. 1884. Mr. 
and Mrs. Kauffman and three of their children are members of the Lutheran 
Church, to the building of which he was a liberal contributor and is now one of its 
most generous supports. He stands high as an honorable and useful member of 
society, and has always been an earnest supporter and patron of educational institu- 
tions. His son, Charles E. , is one of the reputable and successful teachers of this 
county and is at present attending Valparaiso Normal College; Mary E. is an 
accomplished musician, has at present a class of fourteen music scholars, and is the 
organist in the Lutheran Church. Mrs. Kauffman is a daughter of Jonathan and 
Eliza (Yergin) Speicher, both of whom were members of old German families who 
have been known in the history of Pennsylvania for many generations back. When 
a young man Mr. Speicher removed to Wayne county, Ohio, where he married and 
is still living at the advanced age of eighty-five years. He is a member of the Ger- 
man Reformed Church and has always been an honest man and a law-abiding citi- 
zen. His wife, who died on the 7th of April, 1842, bore him five children: Mary 
A., Frances, David, Catherine and Eliza. In 1846 he married Mrs. Elizabeth Smith, 
by whom he became the father of five more children: Harriet, Rebecca, Rosanna, 
William and Emily. The mother of these children was blind for fourteen years of 
her life and is now deceased. For the past thirty-six years Mr. Kauffman has fol- 
lowed the calling of a thresher in Elkhart county and in the winter runs a portable 
saw-mill, which is in active operation the most of the time and has proven a valua- 
ble source of revenue. He is universally esteemed by his friends and associates for 
his integrity and good citizenship, and he has done his full share toward promoting 
the commercial, social and religious development of his section. 

John Redmond. Many of the best known farmers and residents of St. Joseph 
county, Ind., have been born in the Emerald Isle, and this is the case with Mr. 
Redmond, for to county Wexford, Ireland, he owes his nativity, his birth occurring 
on November 12, 1822. His parents, William and Catherine (Berry) Redmond, 
were also born in Ireland, but the family originally came from England. William 
Redmond was reared on the Isle of Erin and there followed the calling of plow 
maker. Lawrence, the father of William, was a farmer. The marriage of William Red- 



MEMOIRS OF TXDTANA. 217 

moad resulted in the birth of live children: Patrick, John, James, Mary and Catherine. 
John Redmond was reared on a farm in his native land and to that occupation has 
devoted his life. He was married in Ireland to Alice Summers,and their union resulted 
in the birth of one child: Edward. Mrs. Redmond died in Ireland, and in 1856 
Mr. Redmond came to America and at once turned his footsteps in the direction of 
St. Joseph county, Ind. , and for several years made bis home with his brother-in-law, 
Edward Summers, in Olive township near Carlisle. On May 30, 1861, be was mar- 
ried to Catherine Layden, who was born in County Clare, Ireland, January 0, 1849, 
and came to America with her parents, Patrick and Mary (Kirby) Layden, when 
about thirteen years of age. The Layden family settled on a farm near Hillsdale, 
Mich., where the father spent the remainder of his days, dying October 25, 1891. 
His wife died in Ireland when her daughter Catherine was about six years old, and 
the mother of Mr. Layden came to America and reared his two little daughters, the 
other child's name being Julia. After Mr. Redmond's marriage he located in Clay 
township, St. Joseph Co., Ind., and there they have since made their home. In 
November, 1876, Mr. Redmond purchased the farm where he now lives, which con- 
sists, at the present time, of 115 acres, about one hundred of which are under cul- 
tivation. This place is well conducted and shows that a man of thrift and intelli- 
gence has the management of affairs. Mr. Redmond and his family are members 
of the Catholic Church. In politics Mr. Redmond is a Democrat, fie is a man of 
sound judgment; is energetic, charitable and liberal, and is considered by all a 
decided acquisition to the section in which he resides. He and his wife have four 
children: James I., born May 10, 1862; William B., born July 19, 186-4; John P., 
born March 18, 1868, and Mary C, born August 7, 1873. The second son, William 
B. , was married February 27, 1890, to Martha Akers, who was born April 2, 1891, 
in Hardin county. Ky., a daughter of George W. and Ann (White) Akers. Mr. and 
Mrs. Redmond are the parents of two children: Alma, born February 2, 1891, and 
Mary, born May 6, 1892. William B. and his wife reside in Senora, Ky., and are 
engaged in tilling the soil. James I., the eldest son of John, is the present assessor 
of Clay township, being elected to that office in the spring of 1890, for four years on 
the Democratic ticket. This is one of the worthy families of the county, each and 
every member of which is well known and highly respected. 

J. H. Myers, Middlebury, Ind. It is a pleasiire to chronicle the history of a man 
whose life has been one of honor and usefulness, and although he has considerably 
passed the zenith of his career, Mr. Myers has accumulated a fortune that enables 
him to enjoy to the fullest extent the true comforts of a home that is made beautiful 
by the sweet spirit of kindliness and mutual appreciation among the members of the 
family. He comes of good old Pennsylvania Dutch stock, and is descended from 
one of the early colonial families that have for generations been residents of York 
county, Penu. The paternal grandfather, Conrad Myers, was born in that county, 
and like the most of the male members of his family, became a well-to-do farmer 
and miller, and lived to attain the age of seventy years. Jacob R. Myers, his son 
and the father of the subject of this sketch, was born and reared on his father's 
farm in York county, Penn., and like a true son of his father became a tiller of the 
soil when thrown upon his own resources. He acquired a practical education in the 
German language in the common schools of his vicinity, and upon reaching man's 
estate was married to Lydia, daughter of Andrew Utz, also a native of York county 
and of Dutch descent. To this union a good old-fashioned family of thirteen 
children was born, two of whom died in infancy, the rest reaching maturity: Jesse H. 
(the subject), Elizabeth, John B. , Andrew, Samuel, Levi, Daniel, Hiram, Moses, 
Aaron and Frank. In 1832, with the ambition, courage and sturdy manhood which 
have always been distinguishing characteristics of American pioneers, he pushed into 
Stark county, Ohio, in search of land upon which to make a settlement and located 
on a farm four miles South of Canton, where he made his home until 1853, when 
Filkhart, Ind. , became the scene of his labors. He became the fortunate possessor 



218 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of a tine, arable farm of 200 acres, on which he passed the remainder of his days, 
dying at the age of sisty-two years in 1868. Like the majority of agriculturists he 
was hard-working and honest, and left a valuable estate to his heirs. Politically a 
stanch Democrat, he was a very strong Union man during the war, and gave two 
of his sons to assist in protecting the Union, both of whom served three years in 
the Seventy -fourth Indiana Regiment, and were in several battles, among which was 
Lookout Mountain. They miraculously escaped wounds and sickness and returned 
home able-bodied men. Their mother was a member of the Diinkard Church. 
Jesse H. Myers, the subject of this sketch, first saw the light of day on his father's 
farm iu York county. Penn., June 18, 1826. and owing to his early removal to Ohio 
where schools were few and far between, and even then not of the best quality, 
his educatiou was limited to the three R.'s, — "readin', 'ritin' and 'rithmetic." He 
early learned the details of farming which was conducted in the old-fushioned way; 
the grain being tramped out b_v horses on the barn floor. Eventually Mary, 
daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Albright) Oberlin. became his wife, their union 
being consummated in Stark county. Ohio, to which section her parents came from 
LaucHSter county, Penn., when the country was a wilderness inhabited by the red 
man and infested by numerous wild animals. However. Mr. Oberlin wielded his 
axe to some purpose and finally became the owner of a valuable farm, dying on the 
same at the ripe old age of eighty years. To Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Myers four 
children were born: William H., January 19, 1850; Emma E , September 26, 1851; 
Edward L., April 24. 1862. and Kate A., October 19, 1866. In 1855 Mr. Myers came 
with his family to Elkhart county, and purchased a good farm one mile west of 
Middlebury, which he has greatly improved and which has since been his home. 
Everything atout his place is in harmony, for each nook and cranny of fields, 
fences aud barns is well kept, neat and attractive, speaking well for the management 
of the owner, who looks beyond the work of the moment and the gain of the moment 
to tbe future. His farm is well adapted to the raising of stock, for it is well 
watered, and to this branch of agriculture Mr. Myers has given con-iiderable atten- 
tion. His wife died November 16, 1887, a devout member of the Lutheran Church, 
and October 18, 1888, Mr. Myers took for his second wife Mrs. Sarah Fulton, 
widow of Dr. J. H. Fulton, of Otsego, Mich., by whom she became the mother of 
two children: Nellie, wife of Matthew L. De Wolf, a station agent of San Antonio, 
Texas, and Frank. Mrs. Myers was the daughter of Mercon and Elizabeth (Quack- 
enbush) Fox, the former of whom was a member of au old American family of 
English descent, whose wife bore him twelve children, seven of whom lived to 
mature years: Arthur. Ralph, Sarab. Fannie. Henry, Albert aud James. Albert, 
Arthur and Henry were soldiers in the Civil war, and the first mentioned, who was 
a soldier in the Twenty-ninth ludiana Regiment, was killed at the battle of Chick- 
amauga; and Henry, who was in the Thirteenth Michigan, was killed in the battle 
of Murfreesboro. Mr. and Mrs. Fox were members of the Presbyterian Church of 
Lima, aud were substantial and upright farmer,-. Mr. Myers is a member of the 
Lutheran Church, and held the office of trustee and elder for three years, and has 
been superintendent of the Sunday-school for the past seven years. He has given 
his children good educations, for he recognized the fact that a good education is 
rather to be desired than great riches, and his son Edward is teaching a graded 
school at Burlington. Kan. Mr. Myers is well contented with his lot in life, for he 
is iu comfortable circumstances and holds a high place in the estimation of his 
fellows as an honorable, straightforward man. January 27, 1892, a reunion of 
the Myers family was held at the residence of J. H Myers, and nine stalwart 
brothers and one sister once more gathered at the same board, for the first time in 
thirty-five years. Forty members of the family were present, and the occasion will 
long be remembered. The eldest son of J. H. Myers. William H., was married to 
Annie Balyeat, by whom he has one child, he is residing on an excellent farm 
given him by his father in Middlebury township; Emma married Isaiah Goodyear, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 221 

a farmer of Clinton towasbip; Edward L. married Jennie Smith, by whom he has 
three children; and Katie is married to Charles Wehmeyer, a real estate and 
insurance agent of Goshen, Ind. 

Dr. C. C. Baumgartxer, physician and surgeon of Elkhart, Ind., is successfully 
engaged in practicing, a calling which is perhaps the most trying on brain and body 
of any in the Held of science. He is one of the busiest of this busy class of men, 
and is well equipped and fully prepared to meet any professional demands that may 
be made upon him, and has met with flattering success from the start. He was 
born in the canton of Berne, Switzerland. February 2, 1842, a son of John and 
Catherine (Lehman) Baumgartner, the former of whom was born in Switzerland, 
and there passed from life. His widow survives him and is a resident of Bluffton^ 
Ind. She bore her husband two children: John J., who joined the Fourth Indiana 
Volunteers and died in Andersonville prison, and C. C, who was ten years of age 
when he left his native country. He took passage for this country on a sailing ves- 
sel for Havre de Grace, and after an ocean voyage of forty-two daj's landed at New 
York City. His mother, brother and some other relatives came at the same time, 
and he, with his immediate relatives, located in Adams county, Ind., and in the pub- 
lie schools of that and Wells county he acquired a fair practical education. Until 
eighteen years of age his attention was given to farming, but at that age he began 
the study of medicine at Akron and Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from a medical 
institution of the latter place in the spring of 1861. He at once entered upon the 
practice of his profession in Wayne county, Ohio, but aboxit seven years later became 
a practitioner of Adams county, Ind., where he continued to devote his talents to 
healing the sick and afflicted for seven years. He then gave up attending to the 
physical wants of his fellow creatui'es and began looking after their spiritual welfare, 
and for three years was a member of the Evangelical Association at Wabash City, 
and one year in Elkhart, Ind. His scholarly attainments, eloquence and earnest- 
ness soon made him a power in church circles, and for eight years he acted in the 
capacity of presiding elder, four years being spent in Indianapolis and four years 
in the Elkhart District. He became well known for his earnestness and zeal, and 
his discourses were considered able, eloquent and of a most convincing order. Dur- 
ing his last term as a presiding elder he was crippled by an accident, after which he 
located in Elkhart, again took up the medical profession, and is successfully pursuing 
this honorable calling. Dui'ing his residence in this city he has won many friends 
by his straightforward, gentlemanly and courteous conduct, and his earnest support 
and connection with everything tending to the welfare and progress of the city and 
section, especially in church matters, has done much toward making him the popu- 
lar and respected citizen he now is. In 1863 he was married to Miss B. C. Leh- 
man, by whom he has three sous: William H, Albert J. and Eeuben A., all of whom 
are residents of Elkhart. Dr. and Mrs. Baumgartner have a very comfortable and 
pleasant home where the_y dispense a refined and generous hospitality. Albert J., 
their second sou, is now taking his tirst course of lectures in Rush Medical College 
at Chicago; Keuben A. is clerk in the district passenger office of ihe Big Four Rail- 
road, and William H. is a carriage trimmer in Pratt's Carriage W arks in Elkhart. 

George D. Mather is a prominent farmer, residing in the vicinity of Middle- 
bury, lud. , and is descended from a distinguished colonial Puritan family, who 
were among the founders of the early New England churches, and have been promi- 
nent as clergymen, statesmen and lawyers for generations. For the early history of 
this family see the sketch of J. R. Mather, of Elkhart, Ind. The grandfather of 
George D. was Jonathan Mather, son of Samuel, and was born in New Jersey, July 
4, 1787, and died December 30, 1860. He married Anna Bishop, of West Hamp- 
ton, N. J., in 1809, and by her was the father of ten children: Mary, born Decem- 
ber, 1810; David B. , liorn June 8, 1812; a son who died in infancy; Phcebe, born 
September, 1816; Lydia Ann, born February 22, 1819; Jonathan R. , born May 25, 
1821; Caroline M., born December, 1827; Irene A., born May 1, 1823; Joseph H., 



232 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHIUAL 

born June 14, 1825, and Ira L. David B. Mather was born in Orange county, N. 
Y. , was principally self-educated and became a good mathematician. He was 
married in his native county to Melissa, daughter of Jonathan Sayer, a farmer of 
that county. To David B. Mather and his wife five children were born: Jonathan 
S., Mary, Charles, Joseph and George. In June, 1837, Mr. Mather came to Elk- 
hart county, Ind., having previously entered land in Middlebury township, now 
occupied by Jonathan S. Mather. He brought his family thither in the fall of 1837 
and cleared a farm from the forest, to which by thrift and industry he added until 
he finally accumulated 2,100 acres. Upon first coming to Middlebury he engaged 
in the mercantile business, but this venture did not prove successful. When a 
young man he had traveled with the famous Van Amburg show, and had learned to 
auctioneer aud to keep track of his sales in his head, and thus became an expert. 
After his mercantile experience he became an auctioneer and for years traveled 
extensively throughout northern Indiana, selling stocks of goods, etc. ; was also col- 
lector for Eastern firms, and in this way did a large business. He was a very ener- 
getic man and read law after reaching middle life, and practiced law in the justice's 
courts throughout the county, becoming the legal adviser for manj' of the pioneer 
settlers. At first he was an old line Whig, but afterward became a Republican, 
being one of the founders of that party in Elkhart county, the principles of which 
he espoused in many a stump speech. He was a man of moral worth and integrity 
of character. He was a large land holder, having much of it under cultivation, and 
possessing a strong constitution and active mind, he kept his varied interests all in 
good working order. He was an extensive dealer in stock, one of the largest in 
northern Indiana, and in all matters was wide awake, enterprising and pushing. 
He gave all his children good educations, and taught them in the practical affairs of 
life. He was essentially a self-made man, and became well educated through his 
own mental efforts and the varied experiences through which he passed. He lived 
to be fifty years of age, but unfortunately had greatly injured his health by his travels, 
exposure aud the arduous duties of his life, which greatly shortened his career. 

George D. Mather, his son, was born on the old Mather homestead June 21, 
1859, and received a good education in the Middlebury High School, from which he 
graduated, afterward attending the commercial college at Kalamazoo, Mich. He 
then clerked for his brother, C. S. Mather, in Middlebury for two years. On Sep- 
tember 1, 1880, he married Minnie B., daughter of John K. and Lydia J. (Brown) 
Burridge, the former of whom was born in Braintree, Vt., and was drowned in Lake 
Michigan September 7, 1868. He was the owner of a fine fruit farm at Benton 
Harbor, Mich., and socially was a member of the A. F. & A. M. He was the father 
of four children: Minnie B., George E. L., William S. and Lola N. After marriage 
Mr. Mather settled on the good farms which he inherited from his father, and which 
now contain 264 acres of land within the corporation of Middlebury. He has 
erected a fine two-story residence of brick and stone at a cost of $6,500, the con- 
struction taking place in 1883. It is very beautiful, and does credit to Mr. Mather's 
taste for the fitness of things aud for the beautiful. He also has fine barns. He 
and his wife have one child, Lola Mabel, born December 12, 1881. Since his 
marriage, Mr. Mather has extensively engaged in farming and stockraising, and has a 
herd of fine Jersey cows. He has been quite an extensive traveler, has visited all 
the Eastern States and cities and points of interest, as well as Chicago, Kansas City, 
and other Western points. He is a stanch Republican, as his father was before 
him, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is 
a public-spirited gentleman, in favor of all enterprises for the good of his section, 
and to this end gives liberally of his means. His traveling experiences, in which 
he took great interest, have added to his general information and contributed to 
make him one of the most intelligent and practical men of his section. He is 
essentially a man of his word, and his honor is unimpeachable. 

Dr. William N. Ash, of Middlebury, Ind., possesses a thorough knowledge of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 233 

the principles underlying the practice of medicine, and familiarity with the most 
approved methods of treating the various ailments which the physician is called 
upon to prescribe for in a general practice; but these are not his only accomplish- 
ments, for to these he has added, by close observation and the exercise of native 
tact, a broad knowledge of mankind in all that the term implies. There is a sun- 
shine in his presence which penetrates and disperses the gloom hanging about the 
chronic suiferer, and his hearty greeting, coupled with generous sympathy, has a 
very beuelicial result in the sick room. He comes of sterling Scotch and Irish 
ancestry, for his great-grandfather came from the north of Ireland and settled in 
Somerset count}', Penn., where David, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, 
was born on a farm, married, and became the father of eight children: Jacob, 
David, ^Yilliam, Josiah, Catherine, Elizabeth, Betsey and Aaron. Mr. Ash passed 
all the active years of his life on the farm, but his declining years were spent at 
Butler, lud. , where he died at the age of eighty-four years, having been an earnest 
member of the Evangelical Church and a man of high integrity. His son, Josiah, 
father of Dr. William N. Ash, was born on the old homestead in Somerset county, 
Penn., June 21, 1814, and received such education as the common schools of his day 
permitted. He was married to Nancy, daughter of John Beidler, a wealthy farmer 
of Dutch stock, who was born in Virginia, but removed with his family, consisting 
of a wife and three children: John, Nancy and Matilda, to Ohio, and died on his 
farm in Holmes county at the patriarchal age of ninety -seven years, a member of the 
Church of God. He possessed a fine physique, was six feet in hight, well propor- 
tioned and possessed an iron constitution. He was temperate in all things, was well 
known for his high moral attributes and for his honorable traits of character. After 
his marriage Josiah Ash took up his residence on a farm in Stark county, Ohio, but 
after a few years removed to Wayne county, of which he was one of the pioneer set- 
tlers. He cleared up a farm in each of these places, and being a man of great 
strength he did a vast amount of hard work, and was a useful pioneer settler of 
Ohio. In 1879 he retired from active life, and now resides with a daughter in 
Ashland, Ohio. He became the father of twelve children, six boys and six girls: 
John, Cyrus, Mary, Martha, Joseph S., Samantha, Ellen, Amanda, Levi V., Agues, 
William N. and Elmer E. Mr. Ash became the owner of 300 acres of land by per- 
sistent industry; in politics was a Democrat, and he and his estimable wife were 
members of the Church of God. He was a man of very independent disposition, 
and would hold no small office, but took an active interest in all public works, and 
contriljuted generously of his means to his church and every good cause. During 
the Civil war he assisted with time and money to secure volunteers, and lent val- 
uable aid to the sanitary commission. He also sent two sons to the war, Joseph S. 
and Cyrus, both of whom served three years in an Ohio regiment, and were in sev- 
eral battles. Mr. Ash has always pursued a straightforward course through life, is 
a good citizen and a kind father, but brought up his family in a strict way. He is 
yet living, a strong and healthy man, but his wife died in 1885. Dr. William N. 
Ash first saw the light of day on his father's farm in Wayne county, Ohio, February 
6, 1859, and in his youth wielded the hoe and followed the plow, attending, as well, 
the district school until he was sixteen years of age, after which he attended the 
academy at Smithville, Ohio, for eighteen months, and next became a student in 
Ashland College, from which he graduated in 1880. Succeeding this he attended 
medical lectures in the University of Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from the Toledo 
Medical College in 1883. After a rest of one year at home, he was appointed 
assistant superintendent of the Northwestern Hospital for the Insane at Toledo, fill- 
ing this responsible position very capably for five years. Here he had the advantage 
of an experience which he would never have gained in a lifetime of ordinary prac- 
tice, and to say that he made good use of his opportunities would be but carrying 
out the ideas which have been formed by those who know him best and understand 
his nature. He opened an office in Middlebury in 1889, and here has built up a 



224 PICTORIAL AJf^D BIOGRAPHTGAL 

lucrative practice, as he fully deserved to do. He is a member of the Northwestern 
Ohio Medical Association, the Lucas County Medical Society and the Ohio State 
Medical Association. He is a patron of the leading medical journals of Europe and 
America, has a valuable medical library, the latest improved surgical instruments, 
and in all ways endeavors to keep thoroughly apace with the progress made in his 
profession. Socially be is a Mason, of Middlebury Lodge, of which he has been a 
representative to the Grand Lodge; has filled all the chairs in the K. of P. Lodge; 
is a member of the Chosen Friends and of the board of health of Middlebury. He 
stands deservedly high as a physician and a man, and has won the confidence of the 
people as a man of culture and scientitic ability. 

James Kavanagh, grocer of Elkhart, Ind. In compiling an account of the mer- 
cantile establishments of the city of Elkhart, ]nd., it is the desire of the publishers 
to particularly mention those classes of houses which are the best representatives of 
each special line of trade, and which contribute most to the city's reputation as a 
source of supply. As one of the leading representatives of the grocery line, James 
Kavanagh may well be quoted, for he is extensively engaged in handling the staple 
necessaries of life, and the extensive trade which he has built up is the outgrowth of 
enterprise and commercial sagacity. Mr. Kavanagh has very successfully grappled 
with the question of supplying the masses with food, and his well-appointed grocery 
establishment goes far toward a solution of the problem. The business was estab- 
lished in the sjiring of 1877, by Mr. Kavanagh, but the firm is now known as 
Kavanagh & Pollard, both gentlemen being well adapted to successfully conduct 
this extensive business by practical experience and natural aptitude. The premises 
occupied are of ample dimensions, finely fitted up with a large stock of staple and 
fancy groceries, fruits, vegetables and country produce, and popular prices prevail. 
Alert assistants serve customers politely and promptly, free delivery of all orders is 
made to all parts of the city, in short, no effort on the part of the proprietors is spared 
to please each and every one of their numerous patrons. Mr. Kavanagh was born in 
Wyoming county, N. Y.,May20, 1842, to Charles and Helen (Murphy) Kavanagh. who 
were born, reared and married on the Isle of Erin, the year of their emigration to 
America being 1839. After a short residence in Wyoming county. N. Y., they went 
to Brooklyn, N. Y. , where the father conducted a wholesale and retail boot and shoe 
store for about seven years, employing in the meantime from fifty to sixty men. 
He next returned to Wyoming county and located on a farm, on which he died 
February 6, 1860, his widow surviving him until November 16, 1886, having borne 
him eleven children, eight of whom are living, five sons and three daughters: Mrs. 
Mary A. Kerwin, of Wyoming county, N. Y. ; James; Thomas, of AVashington. Penn.; 
Matthew, of Wyoming county, N. Y.. where he is engaged in merchandising; Margaret; 
Charles, of New York; Mrs. Catherine Whalen, of New York, and John E., of Chicago. 
The subject of this sketch was educated in the public and private schools of Brook- 
lyn, and at an early age learned the trade of a machinist, at which he worked in 
various places for about fourteen years. He was in the Vulcan Iron Works of 
Chicago, and in a like establishment in Peoria. III. In 1872, Elkhart, Ind., became 
his home, and here he soon found employment in the Lake Shore & Michigan 
Southern Railroad Shops, having charge of three pits at the time of his resignation. 
In the spring of 1877 he began devoting his attention to his present occupation, and 
has built up a business on which he may well be congratulated. Being enterprising, 
energetic and honorable, he is very popular in financial circles, and soon after the 
organization of the city, was nominated for treasurer, but would not work for the 
office, and consequentlj' was defeated by a majority of sixty-five votes. During 
the twenty years that he has been a resident of Elkhart he has attended strictly to 
business, much preferring to pursue the quiet life of the successful merchant, to 
the strife and turmoil of the political arena. When the dark and lowering 
clouds of war burst over the country in 1861, personal considerations were cast aside 
by Jklr. Kavanagh, and his name was soon placed on the rolls of Company A, One 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAIfA. 225 

Hundred aud Fifth New York Infantry, with which he served until September, 1862, 
when he was taken prisoner at the second battle of Bull Run, was paroled at Point 
of Eocks, and was taken to Camp Chase, Ohio, after which he returned home, there 
to remain during the remainder of the struggle. In 1873 he led to the altar Miss 
Maria A. Goodspeed, of Elkhart, by whom he has an interesting family of three 
children: Charles H., Ellen M. and John M. The mother of these children died 
in 1884, and for his second wife, Mr. Kavanagh took Miss Henrietta S. Goodspeed, 
a sister of his first wife. He is a member of the Order of Eed Men, and is well 
known in social as well as business circles. He is a most useful and progressive 
mercantile representative, his business is conducted upon the broadest basis of 
equity, aud those who enter into business relations with him may rest assured that 
their interests will be carefully guarded. 

Simon Grineb is a retired farmer living in Middleburg, Ind., where he has a 
pleasant home and enjoys the advantages to be derived from a residence in this 
flourishing city. He is classed among the substantial and respected citizens of the 
town, and is a de.scendaut of good old Pennsylvania stock. His great-grand- 
father a native of Germany, was the first of the family to come to America, and 
made the voyage when a young man. He settled in the town of High Spire, six 
miles east of Harrisburg, Dauphin county, Peun. , and followed the trade of wheel- 
wright. He was married in the town where he settled and became the father of 
three children: Philip, Barbara and Katie. He built a gristmill which he ran for 
many years, but finally sold it and purchased a good farm of 150 acres, on which 
he passed the remainder of his days. He was a religious man and at one time, a 
two-days' meeting, in the old-fashioned way, was held in his barn. He lived to be 
quite an aged man. After retiring from his farm he built a shop where he made 
fanning-mills and washing-machines. He was a substantial farmer in his day and 
spoke his native tongue. His son, Philip, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, 
was born in Dauphin county, Peun., and he was reared to farm life. He married 
Miss Margaret Wolfsbarger, a daughter of Fredrick Wolfsbarger, a tavern keeper 
of Campbell's Town, Lebanon Co., Penu. Mr. Griner lived for many years on 
the old home farm and there his fourteen children were born, twelve of whom 
reached mature years, married and reared families. The}' were named as follows: 
Mollie, Peggy, John, Philip, Fredrick, Mary, Sarah, Barbara, Katie, Betsey, 
Sophia and Jacob. Their descendants are now scattered over the great West. 
Those who had children in the Rebellion were as follows: Peggy, who married John 
Cassel, of Ashland county, Ohio, had four sons in the army aud three of them were 
drowned on a steamboat on the Mississippi River during the war; John, who set- 
tled in Wayne county, Ohio, on a farm, had three sons in the war, one died ia 
Louisville, Ky. ; Mary married William Marks, of southern Illinois, and had one 
son in the war. In 1833 Philip Griner moved with his family to Wayne county. 
Ohio, and settled on a farm where he passed the remainder of his life. He and 
wife were members of the German Reformed Church and Mr. Griner was a deacon in 
the same. He was quite a popular citizen and held a number of responsible posi- 
tions, being appraiser and assessor in Pennsylvania. He had the utmost confidence 
of the people and was administrator of several estates. He lived to be nearly 
eighty-three years of age and was the possessor of an excellent property, owning 
four farms in the Buckeye State, 693 acres altogether. This land he sold to his 
children. Philip, third sou of the above and the father of our subject, was a native 
of Dauphin county, Penn. , born on the old homestead, December 2, 1813, and 
received but little education, attending the subscription schools of those days a few 
weeks in winter for a season or two. As the family was large, the boys early began 
to work and during the winter they assisted in threshing the grain which was 
tramped out by horses on the barn floor. In 1S33, when a young man of twenty 
years, he went to Ohio with his father, and three years later was married in Wayne 
county, that State, to Miss Fannie, daughter of Jacob Gochawaur. To them were 



226 PICTORIAL .LND BIOGRAPHICAL 

born three children : Barbara, Mary and Simon. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. 
Griner settled on a farm in Wayne county, Ohio, and here his wife died a number 
of years later. He subsequently married Salome Moonensmith, daughter of a Ger- 
man Reformed preacher, and five children were the fruits of this union : Harriet, Ann, 
Kate, Adam and Jane. In 1853 Mr. Griner moved to his present farm in Middle- 
bury township, Elkhart Co., Ind. He bought '295 acres of improved land, for 
which he paid $5,500, and which had very good improvements for those days. On 
this farm his second wife died and Mr. Griner returned to Ohio, and was married in 
Stark county to Mrs. Sarah NefF, formerly Miss Jacoby. Mr. and Mrs. Griner are 
members of the Lutheran Church and Mr. Griner is the founder of the Griner 
Lutheran Church. He gave the land upon which it stands and he was also the 
largest contributor toward the erection of the church. He was one of the building 
committee, has been deacon for eight years and church trustee since the church was 
built. He has always been a prosperous man, but what he has accumulated has 
been by hard labor. At one time he owned 768 acres of laud in Indiana, but much 
of this he has since sold and divided the money among his children. When start- 
ing out for himself he had limited means and was obliged to work very hard to get 
a start. For seven years he was a teamster, and before the railroads were built he 
drove six horses to a big old-fashioned Pennsylvania wagon, which would hold up 
tons, and hauled goods from Pittsburg, Penn., to Wooster, Ohio. He also fol- 
lowed threshing for eighteen years, two years in Ohio and sixteen after he came to 
Indiana. He is now nearly eighty years of age and is yet quite strong and hearty 
and retains his faculties to a remarkable degree. Such men as he have developed and 
improved the county and made it what it is. In politics he is a strong Democrat. 
His son, Simon, our subject, was born on his father's farm in Wayne county, Ohio, 
April 13, 1842, and at any early age was left motherless, never knowing her care. 
His stepmother, however, was a veiy intelligent woman and young Simon, through 
her kindness, never realized the loss of his own mother, as she treated him as well 
as she did her own children. His advantages for securing an education were 
received in Middlebury township, this county, whither he had removed with his 
parents when in his eleventh year. He learned farming when young and early 
began life for himself. On March 15, 1861, when twenty years of age, he married 
and subsequently settled down to farming in Middlebury township, renting land of 
his father. One year later he moved to La Grange county, Ind., where his father 
had timber land, partially improved a farm there, but sold this for his father and 
returned to Middlebury township. For about ten years he rented land of his 
father and about 1872 he bought forty acres of his father's land, a short distance 
south of the corporation of Middlebury. Later he sold this land and bought 110 
acres further south on the same road. This land he still owns and on this he 
resided until he came to Middlebury in 1892. By thrift and industry he gradually 
added to his farm until he now owns 172 acres of good land. In 1892 he bought 
a pleasant residence in Middlebury and now makes that town his home. Mrs. 
Griner is a member of the Lutheran Church, and takes much interest in church 
work. Mr. Griner is a strict Democrat in politics. To Mr. and Mrs. Griner have 
been born five children: William, Edward, John W. , Valentine, Oscar and Frank. 
The first named married Miss Frances Bedford, and is clerking in Middlebury. 
They have two children: John W., married Miss Effie Shutt, and is on his father's 
farm, and Valentine, married Miss Bertha Boles, and is a farmer on the home place. 
Simon Griner is one of the sterling citizens whose career has been one of industry 
and frugality. By thrift and perseverance he has accumulated a comfortable prop- 
erty, and to-day stands deservedly high as an honest, upright man. His word is 
as good as his bond. He is descended from good old colonial stock and may well 
take pride in his ancestors. 

Samuel F. Cripe is a descendant of one of the oldest pioneers in Elkhart 
county, Ind., Emanuel Cripe, who is now living on Elkhart Prairie, where he 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 237 

followed farming during the greater part of the active years of his life. He is now 
in the eighty-sixth year, to which patriarchal age he has attained, without 
doubt, by correct living and by the possession of a sound constitution, inherited 
from his German ancestors. He was born in Dayton, Ohio, October 7, 1806, and was 
a son of David Gripe, a prosperous old farmer of Pennsylvania, Init in an early day 
removed from Somerset county to Ohio, where he carved out a home for himself in 
the woods of Montgomery county. His father, Jacob Gripe, came from Germany, 
and until his death was a resident of the Keystone State. Daniel Gripe became a 
resident of the State of Indiana in the spring of 1829. His wife was Madeline 
Miller, by whom he became the father of the following children: Samuel, Benja- 
min, John, Daniel, Emanuel, Betsey, Susan, Kate and Polly, all of whom came to 
Indiana within a few years of each other, having married in Ohio. Mr. Gripe came 
to Indiana before the land had been opened for settlement, and the Indians were 
plentiful but peaceful. They often came to his house, especially in the water- 
melon season. He owned a good farm of 200 acres on Elkhart Prairie, and was the 
first Dunkard preacher in northern Indiana. He possessed many Ghristian virtues, 
led a simple and unostentatious life, and through bis instrumentality many of the 
substantial, law-abiding and patriotic Dunkard families of that section came to the 
region. Throughout life he used the German language, and lived to be eighty- 
eight years of age. His brother Jacob lived to be ninety-nine years of age and 
also died in this county. Emanuel Gripe was born in Ohio in 1806, was reared on 
a farm, and after his marriage to Gatherine, daughter of Joseph Miksell, he settled 
on land in Ohio, where their eldest child, Susan, was born. About 1830 he removed 
to Indiana, and there the remainder of his children were born, as follows: Samuel, 
Mary, Eli, Betsy, Nettie, Lydia, Rebecca and Noah. Mr. Gripe had driven a team 
through to this State in 1829 and entered land, which, by hard work and industry, 
he increased to 600 acres, besides three houses and lots in Goshen. Although his 
literary education was lacking, he was naturally an intelligent man, and it was owing 
to this and to his energy and thrift, that he acquired his property. He was a hard 
worker, retired at dark, rose at 4 o'clock in the morning and lost no time, for on 
rainy days his time was spent in spinning flax. Realizing the value of a good edu- 
cation, his children were given the advantages of the common schools, and when they 
started out in life for themselves he gave them a considerable amount of either land 
or money. In politics he has always been a Democrat. Samuel F. Gripe, his son, 
and the subject of this sketch, was born on the home farm, two miles from Goshen, 
July 27, 1832, and in that vicinity was reared to manhood and received some 

schooling. He was married to Elizabeth M , daughter of Adam M , 

a shoemaker, of Locke township, and to them one child was born, Susan, whose birth 
occurred September 29, 185-. Her mother died on the 8th of March, 1855, and on 
the 10th of June, 1857, Mr. Gripe took for his second wife Eliza Stomotis, whose 
maiden name was Myers, a daughter of Adam Myers, a farmer of Stark county, 
Ohio. To this second union the following children were born : Amos, born August 

5, 18—; Ella Nora. July 11, ; Jesse, October 28, ; Ishmael, July 4. 1S62; 

Jefferson, October 31, 1864; Mary G., May 18, 1866. After the death of his second 
wife, on the 16th of July, 1874, Mr. Gripe married, December 9, 1874, Mary Berkey, 
born August 30, 1836, daughter of Eliza and Nancy (Miller) Berkey. He was a 
substantial farmer of Somerset county, Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Gripe settled on a farm 
two miles southwest of Goshen, and lived there about fifteen years. By thrift he 
added to his farm until he was the owner of 300 acres of land, then moved three 
miles north of Middlebury, where his farm comprised 270 acres. This land he sold, 
however, in 1891, with the exception of eighty acres. Since that time he has owned 
and conducted a saw-mill in Middlebury, besides forty one acres of land south of the 
town, and four lots and three residences in the town. He has been a member of the 
Dunkard Church for more than twenty years, and a deacon in the same for some fif- 
teen years. He has been generous with his means in the support of this church, 



228 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

and has reared his children in that faith with the exception of Jefferson. Mrs. Mary 
Cripe was the mother of live children by her first husband (Mr. Gardener): Anna 
Eliza, Ijorn Augnst 25, 1849; Nancv J., born April 3, 1861 ; John F.. born February 
6, 1863; Eliza P.. February 2, 1870, and Cora A., August 10, 1873. 

James L. Eobison. This experienced and successful miller of Clay township 
thoroughly understands every detail of his line of work, and the superioritj^ of his 
product is well known and has become the means of placing it in every well-con- 
ducted grocery establishment in the county, which is, without doubt, the strongest 
endorsement the flour could have. Mr. Kobison was born in Erie county. Penn., 
April 16, 1832, to James and Betsy (Gouldin) Eobison, the former of whom was 
born in New York and the latter in Pennsylvania. The father was born and reared 
in Rochester, and during his youth learned the miller's trade in that famous city of 
grist-mills, to which occupatioa he devoted his attention the greater part of bis life. 
He was married in Erie county, Penn., to Betsy Gouldin, a daughter of Naham 
Gouldin, who was born and reared on Long Island, N. Y. The wife of Mr. Gouldin 
was of Scotch descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Kobison seven children were born: Clara, 
Jane, Louis, Louisa (deceased), Philenia, Alonzo and James L. After the celebra- 
tion of Mr. Kobison' s marriage, he and his wife resided in Erie county, Penn., until 
their respective deaths, the former always devoting his attention to the occupation 
of milling, in which he was successful and proficient. James L. Kobison, his son, 
was reared in his native county and learned milling under his father, iu whom he 
had an experienced and intelligent teacher. He remained with his parents until he 
was twenty-one years old, but in 1853 removed to Coldwater Mich., and jaurchased 
sixty acres of land near Batavia, where he successfully tilled the soil until 1887, 
when he disposed of his property there and purchased the grist-mill in Clay town- 
ship, on the St. Joseph Kiver, which he now owns and very successfully operates. 
Mr. Kobison was married in September, 1870, to Miss Mary Ensley, who was born 
in Branch county, Mich., to George and Lydia (Great) Ensley, native Ohioans, who 
were early residents of the ' ' Lake State. " The marriage of Mr. Kobison has resulted 
in the birth of five children: Jay, Cora, Fred, Bessie and Frank (deceased). Mr. 
Kobison has always supported the Democratic party, and is an intelligent, well- 
posted and public-spirited man on all subjects. 

Dr. Benjamin F. Teters. This professional gentleman, whose skill in the heal- 
ing art is well known not only through Middlebury townshiji, but also throughout 
Elkhart county, was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, October 16, 1860, and 
inherits all the sturdy characteristics of the Teutonic ancestors from which he 
sprang. His great-grandfather was born in Germany, but at an early date came to 
America and was one of the pioneer settlers of Westmoreland county, Penn. His 
son, Daniel Teters, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Bedford county, Penn., 
but subsequently settled in Westmoreland county, Penn.. where he reared his family 
of eight children. His son, Daniel Teters, father of subject, was born in that county 
and was there married to Miss Leah Stough, daughter of Daniel and Catherine 
(Clajqjool) Stough. Mr. Stough was born in Penusj-lvania and of German descent. 
At an early date he moved to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, as a pioneer citizen, and 
became a wealthy farmer. He was the father of nine children: Leah, Solomon, 
John, Rachel, Elizabeth, Mary, Jacob, Daniel and Josiah. Mr. Stough was a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran Church and died in that faith when seventy-four years of age. 
The Claypools were of English descent and descended from an old and wealthy 
familJ^ Mr. Teters settled iu Tuscarawas county where he followed milling, and 
met with a fair degree of success in that calling. His marriage resulted in the birth 
of eight children, as follows: Josiah, John D., Marion F., Leah C, Marion E., 
Mary E., Barbara and Benjamin F In politics Mr. Teters is a stanch Democrat 
and during the war he was a strong Union man. His son, Josiah, enlisted in the 
One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; John D. , 
another son, in the Eightieth Regiment, and died of typhoid fever at Paducah, Ky., 



MEM0TR8 OF INDIANA. 329 

and Marion F., who was first in the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Regiment, re- 
enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty-fourth Oliio Volunteer Infantrj', and was but 
fifteen years of age when he entered the service. Dr. B. F. Teters supplemented 
a common-school education received in his native county by attending Mt. Union Col- 
lege for two years. When sixteen years of age he began teaching school in Ohio, 
followed this for about seven years, and by his own unaided efforts obtained a good 
practical education. He began his medical studies with Dr. P. P. Pomerene, a dis- 
tinguished physician of Berlin. Ohio, and remained with him for three years. He 
then attended Wooster Medical College, at Cleveland, Ohio, and completed his med- 
ical education at the Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, receiving his 
diploma in 1886. He was then associated with his preceptor five years, after which 
he came to Middlebury. This was in December, 1890, and he has had a fine and 
lucrative practice since. He has been absorbed day and night in a profession 
which is perhaps the most trying on brain and body of any in the field of science 
and his signal success in this calling is well known. Dr. Teters is a member of the 
Holmes County Medical Society and Ohio State Medical Society. He has a tine 
medical library and is a patron of the leading medical journals, keeping well posted 
on all the latest scientific improvements. The Doctor is a self-made man, having 
worked his way through college by his own exertions, and by ability and efficiency 
has acquired a flattering reputation as a physician. He was married on Septem- 
ber 13, 1883, in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, to Miss Henrietta, daughter of Ephraim 
Adaline (Fisher) Showalter. Mr. Showalter is a substantial farmer of Tucara- 
was county, Ohio. To Dr. and Mrs. Teters have been born two children: Grace 
and Melwin. 

Thomas B. Chalfant. The gentleman whose name is at the head of this sketch, 
although no longer of earth, still holds a firm position in the memory and affection 
of his family and the numerous friends he won by his correct manner of living. He 
■was born in AVayne county, Ind., February 18, 1820, son of Evan and Anna (Bulla) 
Chalfant, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania August 24, 1796, and in 
that section was reared. When a young man he took up his residence in Wayne 
county, Ind. , where he met and married Anna Bulla, a North Carolinian by birth, who 
was born December 20, 1799. Evan Chalfant arrived with his family in St. Joseph 
county, lud., November 1, 1832, and settled on a tract of land in Section 31, Clay 
township, where he made his home until his death. Jauuarj' 19, 1870. The land 
which he entered and upon which he settled borders on the corporate limits of 
South Bend on the north, but at that time was an unbroken wilderness, which Mr. 
Chalfant brought under cultivation through his own persistent efforts. When the 
family reached South Bend they passed through the village, and on Saturday night 
before the presidential election of 1832 they camped on the ground where the Notre 
Dame University building now stands, and the following week selected a farm. 
Mr. Chalfant was left a widower in March, 1849. The subject of this sketch, 
Thomas B. Chalfant, was a lad of twelve years when his parents moved to St. Jo- 
seph county. He was one of a family of six children, and upon the old home- 
stead in Clay township he grew to manhood, with the exception of three years that 
were spent in working at the carpenter's trade in South Bend. He was first mar- 
ried in 1848 to Miss Jane Melling, who was born in Ohio in 1825 and died in 1861, 
having become the mother of four chiMren, two of whom are living: Nancy J. and 
Evan T. On April 21, 1864, Mr. Chalfant took for his second wife Mis"s Elean- 
or C. Alford, who was born August 5, 1840, iu Elkhart county, Ind., a daugh- 
ter of Robert and Sarah (Cart) Alford, the former being a native of Green- 
brier county, Va., born April 28, 1804, settling in Harrison township. Elk- 
hart ounty, Ind., in 1842. He afterward became a resident of Elkhart town- 
ship, where many years of his life were spent. His death occurred at the home 
of his daughter, Mrs. Chalfant, April 25, 1888, in Clay township. St. Joseph 
Co., Ind. Mrs. Alford was a native of Virginia, born May 5, 1808, and her 



230 PICTOUIAL AND BIOGHAI'UICAL 

death occurred Februarj- 17, 1880. Mrs. Chalfant hore her husband three children: 
Anna L., Mary L. and Robert G. Mr. Chalfant was a farmer of the progressive 
kind, and became the owner of about 165 acres of land adjoining the city limits of 
South Bend, which under his intelligent and progressive management became a 
model farm in every respect. He was a member of the county Grange, and for a 
long time was its treasurer. Coming from the Quaker settlement of Richmond, 
and related to some of the most iutluential Quakers there who were members of the 
famous "'Underground Railroad." he was naturally a Republican in polities and very 
active. From the organization of that party he was rarely absent from the coun- 
cils of his party, and ever exercised his right of franchise. He served one or 
more terms as trustee of Clay township, but was rather averse to holding office. 
He had the respect and esteem of all who knew him, for all respected and ad- 
mired his many noble qualities, his generosity and his natural kindness of heart. 
He died on the farm where so many of the active years of his life were passed 
July 20, 1892, deeply mourned by his family and friends. His brother, Evan 
Chalfant, was a soldier in the Mexican war, and while serving his country efficiently 
and faithfully was called from life. Mrs. Chalfant is still residing on the home 
farm, is in good financial circumstances, and enjoys the esteem of many frieods. 
She is a member of the Presbyterian Church, in which faith she was reared by 
her parents, who were members of that church for many years. A brother, John 
Chalfant. of Missouri, is the only living member of the familj'. 

Peter Winebrenner, house painter, of Middlebury, Ind. The name of this 
gentleman bears an excellent reputation for thoroughness and skill as well as for 
good taste and much artistic ability. He comes of thrifty German stock, for his 
paternal grandfather came from the Fatherland to America and began tilling the 
soil in Blair county, Penn. His son, Andrew, fatlier of Peter ^Yinebrenner, was born 
on his father's farm in Blair county, Penn., August 17, 1818, on which he obtained 
a practical insight into the details of agriculture, and in the vicinity of which he 
secured a fair education in the common schools. Upon attaining manhood, April 
11, 1836, he was married to Miss Anna Hoover, whose father, David Hoover, was a 
farmer in Pennsylvania, but afterward, in 1846, became a resident of Noble county, 
Ind. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Winebrenner resulted in the birth of fourteen 
children: Martin, David, Henry, Ellen, Levi. Nancy, Peter, Adaline, Celeste, Donald, 
Sarah, Agnes and two that died in childhood. Mr. Winebrenner moved to Noble 
county, Ind., in 1846, and settled on a tract of wild land, which he converted into 
a good farm after much hard labor. In 1863- he engaged in the drug business in 
Ligonier, an occupation he continued for seven years, then settled at Lawrence, 
Kan. After a short time he moved to southwest Missouri, Init later returned to the 
Hoosier State and took up his residence in Huntington county, where he died in 
1SS8. His career throughout life was marked by industry, and for many years he 
bad been an earnest member of the Christian Church, and all his lifetime, from the 
time he attained his majority until his earthly career ended, was in sympathy with 
the Republican party. Five of his sons served in the Union army during the Civil 
war: Martin, in Company A, David in Company D, Peter in Company D, of the 
One Hundred and Forty-second Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and Henry 
in Company C, Eighty-eighth Regiment Volunteer Infantry, of which Levi was also 
a member. Henry was wounded at Chickamauga and was with Sherman on his 
march to the sea, and Levi died from the hardships incident to army life in January, 
1864. Peter Winebrenner was born and reared on his father's farm in Noble county, 
Ind., his birth occurring January 10, 1848, but his education, which he was securing 
in the common schools near his home, was cut short by his enlisting, November 3, 
1864, in Company D, One Hundred and Forty-second Regiment of Indiana Volun- 
teer Infantrv at Keudallville, at which time he was but fifteen years and ten months 
old. His regiment did garrison duty at Nashville, Tenn., until the close of the war 
and he was honorably discharged at Indianapolis, Ind. Notwithstanding his youth 



MEMOIIiS OF INDIANA. 231 

he made a good soldier, and in June, 1865, was commissioned sergeant. Upon 
returning home he attended school a short time, after which he began learning the 
trade of a house painter, to which occupation he has given his attention up to the 
present time. In 1867 he espoused Miss Ellen Pake, and to them two children were 
born: Anna and Clara. His second union was consummated on the '22d of August, 
1880, at which time Lydia, daughter of Matthias and Maria (Huston) Goodyear, 
born in Knox county. Ohio, Januar}- 11, 1S38, became his wife. Mr. Goodyear was 
born in Crawford county, Ohio, December 28, 1836, on a farm and came of German 
parents, for his father, Andrew Goodyear, was born in Baden, Germany, in 1804, 
served three years in the German army. He married Catherine Graftsmiller and 
together they came to the United States in 1827, settled in Crawford county on land 
on which he died December 23, 1889. Andrew Goodyear was a substantial farmer 
of Crawford county, became wealthy and reached the age of eighty-one years. A 
family of twelve children were born to him as follows: Christopher, Andrew. Louisa, 
Matthias. John, Catherine, Caroline, Mary, Barbara, Christeua, Daniel and Lueza. 
Matthias became a resident of La Grange county, Ind. , in I860, and after residing 
on a farm there for a few years he took up his residence in Clinton township, Elkhart 
county, where he still resides. He is the father of six children whose names are as 
follows: Lida E., Andrew, Mary M.. John W., Viola B. and Effie A. Both Mr. Good- 
year and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church, in which he is both deacon 
and elder. Politically he is a Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Winebrenner have a daughter, 
Viva E Mr. Winebrenner made his home in Ligonier until January, 1881, when 
he moved to Middlebury, where his home has since been~ As a painter and decorator 
Mr. Winebrenner' s work is decidedly artistic and he is a skillful and practical work- 
man, who is highly recommended l)y architects and builders. He owns a good house 
and lot in the town and he and Mrs. Winebrenner are highly esteemed as citizens. 
He has held the office of justice of the peace four years, is a member of the G. A. R. 
and is a charter member of O. and M. Foster Post, No. 172, of which he was com- 
mander for one yeai-. He and his wife worship in the Lutheran Church, in which 
he holds the positions of deacon and trustee. 

Geoege a. Thomas, Ph. G. is probably the youngest man in Elkhart, Ind., who 
is personally conducting a business of his own. His qualifications for managing his 
own business are such that he is not dependent upon others to manage it for him. 
Though young, he is full of energy, business qualifications, and thoroughly 
fitted for the calling he has undertaken. Mr. Thomas has spent nearly all the 
years of his life in Elkhart and is a favorite in both social and business circles. 
He was born in Goshen, Ind., December 22, 1857, to Dr. W. H. Thomas, whose 
sketch appears in this work, and graduated with honors from the Elkhart High 
School, after which he served a thorousrh apprenticeship in the drug store of J. G. 
Wise. Succeeding this he went to Chicago and entered the Chicago College of 
Pharmacy, which institution is one of the finest in existence, and from which h© 
graduated at the end of two years. During this time he was also employed in the 
drug store of F. N. Jamison, but upon graduating in 1890, came immediately to 
Elkhart, and after remaining with E. W. Forbes for a time, he purchased the fine 
drug store which he now owns and conducts on the corner of Main street and 
Tyler avenue, opposite the soldiers' monument. His establishment is one of the 
neatest and coziest in the city,, and instead of laying out his money for fancy furni- 
ture, he expended it in fitting himself for his profession, and the returns show the 
wisdom of his choice. He is the only graduate in phramacy in the city. He carries 
a full line of fresh drugs and chemicals, and is constantly receiving new perfumes, 
toilet articles, etc. Everything pertaining to a first-class drug store can be found 
here, and he is especially skillful in putting up prescriptions. Night calls are very 
promptly attended to and every reasonable effort is put forth to meet the demands 
of the trade. His establishment is very favorably located, and is exceedingl)' well 
adapted to its present use, while its equipments in every department are complete. 



332 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHTCAL 

He is a progressive young mau of affairs, and socially is a member of the K. of P. 
and the Order of Eed Men. 

Andrew J. Greenwood. In scanning the lives and careers of the citizens of 
Clay township, it is pleasant to note the exercise of enterprise in every walk of life, 
and the achievement of success in every department of business. This one is 
enabled to discern in the career of Mr. Greenwood, who has for many years been 
a successful farmer and carpenter of St. Joseph county. He was born in Cumber- 
land county, Penn., October 3, 1836, sou of William and Susan (Pancake) Green- 
wood, the former's birth occurring in Cumberland county also, on September 27, 
1809. A considerable portion of his youth was spent in learning the wagon maker's 
trade, and for thirty years he was engaged in the manufacture of wagons and agri- 
cultural implements in his native county. During his residence there he was tirst 
lieuteuaut of the Cumberland Guards. His father. John Greenwood, was liorn in 
England about the year 1781, and when a child of three years was brought to this 
country by his parents, who settled in the city of Philadelphia. Here John was 
reared and learned the shoemakers' trade, to which occupation his attention was 
devoted for many years. He was married to a Miss Ferguson, a relative of Major 
Ferguson, who was killed at King's Mountain during the Revolutionary war. To 
them seven children were born, five sons and two daughters. John Greenwood 
died at the home of his son William, about 1850, his wife's death having occurred 
about seven years prior to that time. In the spring of 1857 William Greenwood 
removed to Ohio, and after three years' residence in the vicinity of Worcester, 
removed to Ashland county, Ohio, where he purchased a farm. He afterwards 
lived in Richland county, and May 7. 18S8, died in Independence. Ohio. His 
widow survives him and resides in Independence, having become the mother of 
seven children: Andi-ew J.. Henrietta, Adaline. Van Buren (deceased), Ann, Emma 
and William. Andrew J. Greenwood was reared in his native State, and during his 
youth learned to make wagons and plows in his father's manufacturing establish- 
ment. When twenty-one years of age he removed to Ohio, and in the spring of 
1858, came to St. Joseph county, landing in South Bend on the 22d of June of 
that year. He worked at the carpenter's trade with undoubted success for about 
thirty years after coming to this county, and many of the finest residences and 
barns in this section are the monuments of his skill and thorough knowledge of his 
calling. In 1862 he located in German township, where he bought some laud 
and made his home during the years that he devoted to his trade. In 1860 he 
went with a party of twelve to Colorado; crossing the plains overland to Pike's 
Peak, where he engaged in mining. He was married October 31, 1861, to Permelia 
Longley. born April 2, 1836, in Madison township, St. Joseph county, daughter of 
Thomas and Mary (Ruple) Longley, natives of Somerset county, Penn.. and 
pioneers of S(. Joseph county, becoming residents of Madison township in 1833. 
In 1888 Mr. Greenwood settled on the farm where he now resides in Clay township, 
which consists of 120 acres of well improved land. They not only enjoy a com- 
fortaljle competency, but the friendship of all who know them, and are honored 
residents of the section in which they have so long made their home. They are 
members of the German Baptist Church, and Mr. Greenwood is a Democrat polit- 
ically. He and his wife are the parents of six children: Charles (deceased), Grace, 
Gertrude, May, Homer C. and Eva, the living members of which family do credit 
to the parents who reared them. 

The two Pfeiffer brothers and their descendants. Jacob Pfeiffer, Sr. , was a na- 
tive of Bavaria, Germany. His father settled in the village of Miihlbaeh, having 
formerly lived in another portion of Bavaria. He had two sons and two daughters: 
Philip. Jacob, Elizabeth and Catharine. Philip and Jacob immigrated to America 
in 1833. They moved in private conveyance through France to Havre de Grace, 
from which place they sailed for New York. From New York, being on the way 
thirty-six days, they traveled by steamer and canal boat via Albany, Buffalo and 



MEMOIRS OP TNDIAJSTA. 233 

Cleveland to Massilou, Ohio, thence to Wooster, and tinally settled on a new farm in 
Chester township, Wayne Co., Ohio. The two sisters married and remained in 
Germany, where they both died. In 1845, Jacob sold his share of the farm for 
$1,200, and moved with his family to Elkhart county, Ind. He settled on eighty 
acres of timbered land in Section 33, Middlebury township, where he built a log 
house and commenced to clear up a farm. In June, 1851, his house burned with 
all his goods. He then settled on another eighty acres near by, and this he sold in 
1865 for S5,000. From this time until his death he lived with his children. He 
died at the residence of his oldest son in 1874, in his seventy-fourth year. Before 
he moved to America he was married to Elizabeth Knapp, who preceded him to her 
final rest. She was the daughter of Henry Knapp, of Miihlbach, Bavaria, and was 
the oldest of sixteen children. Mr. Pfeiffer was a Democrat, although he never took 
an active part in politics. Both he and his wife were, all their lives, memljers of 
the Liitheran Church. They had ten children. Of these, Jacob, Philipine, Caro- 
line and Frederick were born in Germany. The other six: Elizabeth, Henry, 
Christian, Philip and William, and one who died in infancy, were born in Wayne 
county, Ohio. Jacob Pfeiffer, Jr., the subject of this sketch, was born November 2, 
1820, in the village of Miihlbach, Bavaria, Germany. He came to America with 
bis parents in 1833, when in his seventh year, and remembers quite distinctly when 
they all left the old country and can relate a great many interesting circumstances 
that took place during the trip. At an early age he was put to work at clearing the 
land upon which his parents had settled, and in order to help the family make a liv- 
ing. For this reason his school education was very limited. Yet by means of bard 
work and perseverance, with such books as he could get, he managed to acquire a 
tolerably good education for those days, and when be grew to manhood he taught 
several terms of school. In 1855 he was married to Susanna Stiver, daughter of 
JobnB. Stiver, formerly written Stover. John B. Stiver was a grandson of Casper 
Stiver, who served in the Revolutionary war. Casper Stiver's father came from 
Germany and was the first Lutheran minister in Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. 
Pfeiffer have in their possession a large German Bible which was published in 
1710, and which the old pioneer preacher brought from Germany. Jacob Pfeiffer, 
Jr., has three children: Ella J. was born March 12, 1856. She married Nicholas 
Pickrell, who died in 1876, leaving two children, Clyde E. and Edna I. Seven 
years after Mr. Pickrell's death she was married to Thomas P. Artley, by whom she 
has four children. Amanda C. was born April 9. 1860, and is the wife of David 
F. Cartwell, by whom she has two children. William H. was born December 12, 
1864; married Emma Schrock and has one child. He is also a farmer. Jacob 
Pfeiffer has followed farming the greater part of his life, and at one time had over 
400 acres of land, but he has sold off and divided among his children until be has 
only 136 acres left, which is farmed by a tenant. Mr. Pfeifi'er has purchased a 
handsome residence in the village of Middlelsury, where he now lives as a retired 
farmer. He and his wife are Ijoth members of the Reformed Church, of Goshen, 
Ind. He was raised a Democrat and voted the Democratic ticket until the organ- 
ization of the Republican party, since which time he has been a Republican. 
He has served as constable, township assessor eight years, and appraiser of real 
estate three terms. During the war, 1861 to 1865, he was enrolling officer for Mid- 
dlebury township, and helped to organize several military companies and contrib- 
uted in many ways for the prosecution of the war. Of Mr. Pfeiffer' s brothers and 
sisters, Philipine died at the age of five years, soon after coming with her parents to 
America. Caroline was married to Pickrell, by whom she had seven children: Jacob 
F., Ida E.,_ Henrietta, Lewis, Frank G., Frederick C. and Willard. Mrs. Pickrell 
died in 1873. Frederick Pfeiffer married Mary Flory and resides in Middlebui-y; 
they have no children. Elizabeth was married in 1861, to Moses Bartholomew, and 
died June 29, 1888. She had five children: Henry S. K., Nevada E., Ella M., 
Clara V. and Cora V. The latter died when one year old. Henry Pfeiffer enlisted 



234 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

in the Union army anci served four years. He took part in many important engage- 
ments and was with Sherman in the celebrated march to the sea. After the war he 
married Sarah Millington, they had two chiklren, Edward O. and Clara. He (Hed 
in April, 1874. Christian, Philip and William were burned to death when their 
father's house was destroyed by lire in 1851 Philip Pfeiffer (brother of Jacob), 
died on the farm where he first moved when he came to America, at the age of sixty- 
two years. He was a soldier under Napoleon Bonaparte and served two years. He 
raised quite a large family, most of whom still live in Wayne county, Ohio, where 
they first settled. 

Gr. Frank Kiefer. One of the successful agriculturists of Clay township, St. 
Joseph Co., Ind., who is as conspicuous for his modest and retiring nature as for 
his intelligence and ability, is he whose name is at the head of this sketch Although 
his farm comprises but ninety-eight acres, it is a part of the old homestead and is so 
admirably tilled and every detail so carefully and intelligently looked after, that it 
is much more profitable than many other larger farms. Mr. Kiefer is a native of 
Clay township, his birth occurring February 2, 1858, bis parents being John and 
Elizabeth (Protsman) Kiefer, the birth of the former taking place in Germany, July 
8, 1818. He was a son of Peter Kiefer, who came to America in 1825, settling in 
Stark county, Ohio, and a few years later in St. Joseph county, being among the 
pioneers of Harris township. John Kiefer was married in Michigan to Elizabeth 
Protsman, a native of Ohio, and after their marriage they located on the homestead 
in Harris township, and during the thirties purchased a farm in Clay township, on 
which the son, G. Frank Kiefer, now lives. At the time of Mr. Kiefer' s settlement 
the only improvement which had been made on the place was a small log cabin, and 
on him devolved the clearing and cultivation of the farm, and in this he was remark- 
ably successful, and made one of the finest farms in the county, well improved with 
substantial and commodious buildings. Here he made his home until his death, 
January 24, 1892, his wife's death having taken place September 23, 1881. They 
were the parents of eight children: Jacob H. , Eliza A., John W^., D. Wesley, D. 
Cyrus, G. Frank, and Harvey, and Clara who died in infancy. The eldest son, Jacob 
H. , enlisted in Company D, Eighty-seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry in 1862, 
and took part in all the engagements in which his regiment participated. He was 
taken prisoner and confined in Andersouville, where he died from stai*vation and 
exposure. G. Frank Kiefer was reared in Clay township, and in the schools of the 
same was educated. He was married March 26, 1884, to Millie L. Young, who was 
born March 5, 1860, in Harris township, daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Kocher) 
Young. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Kiefer has resulted in tne birth of one child: 
Ethel May, who was born in South Bend, Ind., August 25, 1885, and is an intelli- 
gent and promising child. Mr. and Mrs. Kiefer are members in good standing of 
the Presbyterian Church, and in politics he is a stanch Republican. 

Dr. Fr.^nklin L. Putt is an old soldier and for many years past has been a suc- 
cessful practicing physician, for his genial personality and a kindly sympathy with 
those who come to him as invalids, brought him a clientele perhaps even larger than 
would have been attracted by his recognized ability and the success which attended 
his efforts. He belonged to that class of physicians who recognized the fact that 
there was something more than a barren ideality in "ministering to a mind dis- 
eased," or in other words that the mental condition of the patient had in many 
cases much to do with his physical condition, and always endeavored to leave his 
patients in a happy and hopeful frame of mind where the nature of the disease ren- 
dered this possible. The Doctor comes of Dutch stock, for his grandfather, George 
Putt, fled from Holland to avoid serving in the Schleswig-Holstein war, to which 
he was opposed on account of religious principles. He was a member of a large 
family of children and was one of thirteen brothers, one of whom was a general in 
the above mentioned war and one a prominent surgeon. The remaining brothers all 
fled to America and experienced many difficulties in effecting their escape and in 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 235 

reaching this country. George Putt settled near Philadelphia, where he married a 
lady with whom he had become acquainted on the voyage to this country. Later he 
took up his residence in Coshocton county, Ohio, which, at that time was an almost 
total wilderness, and here he cleared a good farm, lived to be eighty years of age, 
and reared a family of eight children: George, Frank, Dauiel, Harmon, Philip, 
Lewis, Elizabeth, Hannah and one daughter that died unmarried. Lewis, son of 
George and father of the immediate subject of this sketch, was born in Coshocton 
county, Ohio, but received no education in those early days, as there were no schools, 
but learned to read and write both English and German. He married a Miss 
Heluick, who bore him two children, one of whom died young, and Benjamin who 
lived to marry and rear a family and finally died in New Orleans. After the death 
of the mother of these children, Lewis Putt took for his second wife Susannah Buz- 
zard, who bore him eight children: Lewis, Daniel, Margaret, John, Joseph, Frank- 
lin L., Sarah, Levi, all of whom are living except Lewis. Mr. Putt settled on a 
farm in Portage county, Ohio, where he died at the age of thirty-eight years from 
the effects of an accident. He was a substantial farmer, a good citizen and a drum 
major in the old militia. Dr. Franklin L. Putt is a product of Portage county, 
Ohio, where he was born on January 16, 1844, and where he obtained a practical 
education in the common schools. When he was about four and a half years of age 
his father died and he was reared by Mrs. Joseph Reynolds, a widow, and by her 
daughter, Mrs. Luther Stohl, with whom he lived for a number of years and with 
whom he made his home after he had attained the age of six and a half years, both 
these ladies being to him as parents. "When President Lincoln made his first call 
for 75,000 men to serve three years, young Putt, then but sixteen and a half years 
of age, gallantly responded and on July 12, 1861, his name could be found on the 
rolls of Company A, Second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, at Akron, Ohio, and 
as he was not of the required height to serve as a soldier, he raised his heels in his 
boots and thus added two additional inches to his height. Notwithstanding these 
precautions he was still under the required height and was declined as a soldier, 
after which he was obliged to serve as a bugler and was mustered iu on August 16, 1861, 
at Cleveland, Ohio, where he remained for drill until the following December. His 
first active duty was at Kansas City, Mo. , and in the surrounding country, fighting 
the guerrillas, and iu this severe and dangerous warfare he served for one year, 
during which time he participated in many severe combats in Missouri with the 
famous guerrilla leader, Guantrell, among whose men were the Younger and James 
boys. He was in the battles of Pea Ridge and Cow Skin Prairie, and during the 
time the James boys acted as scouts for the Union army at the beginning of the 
war, young Putt became well acquainted with them and saw them frequently. He 
also became acquainted with the famous Younger brothers in the same way. His 
first revolver practice was with the James boys and from them he learned to shoot 
from the saddle, at which they were very expert, and one of their favorite pas- 
times was to circle round a tree and girdle it with bullets. The Doctor also met 
the famous Indian fighter. Wild Bill, and after the war met him again at Spring- 
field, Mo. In February he returned to Camp Chase. Ohio, at which place he was 
in the hospital for some time sick with typhoid fever. Upon recovering from this 
severe illness he was taken with the dread small-pox, during the progress of which 
he was in the hospital at Franklin county, Ohio, but upon convalescing he found 
that his eyesight had been impaired to a given extent. To prove the saying that 
"Misfortunes never come singly," he was next taken with typhoid pneumonia, 
which laid him on a sick bed for six weeks. On May 28, 1863, he was honorably 
discharged on account of disability and remained at home until the 13th of October 
following when, having fully regained his usual health he re-enli.sted in his old 
regiment as chief bugler, and rejoined them about sixteen miles northeast of 
Knoxville, Tenn., and the next morning participated in the battle of Rutledge. 
After this he was in a number of skirmishes, and after a short time the regiment 



236 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

veteranized and was given furlough for thirty days, and young Putt returned to his 
home. When the regiment re-entered the service it «as assigned to the Army 
of the Potomac and while serving with this command, his horse unfortunately 
fell with him, injuring his head and right shoulder and disabling him for fifteen 
days. Following this be was in the battles of the "Wilderness and Petersburg, in 
the Wilson raid and was wounded at Stone Creek Bridge in the head by a musket 
ball, which made a furrow along the top of his head, carrying away a piece of the 
skull. He was unconscious for four hours, and this wound has ever since given him 
serious trouble. He was nest in the Shenandoah Valley in the battles of Winchester, 
Cedar Creek, W'ainsborough, Bridgewater and Kernnestuwn; after this his regiment 
returned to Petersburg with Gen. Sheridan: during this time he was on scouting 
duty. He was detailed for this work by Col. George Purington and was frequently 
sent within the rebel lines and several times visited Early's headquarters. He fol- 
lowed this dangerous, yet most necessary work imtil the close of the war, being with 
Custer in several raids: was present at Appomattox when Gen. Lee surrendered and 
took part in the Grand Review at Washington, D. C. After the war he was on duty 
at Springfield, Mo., and was mustered out of the United States service at St. Louis 
and houoralily discharged at Columbus, Ohio, September 25, 1865. During his 
notable and useful career as a soldier he was in nearly all the battles of the Army 
of the Potomac, was in AVilson's famous raid and was under Gen. Custer when he 
took charge of the Third Division. B}^ the explosion of a shell at Harper's Ferry, 
his clothing was nearly torn from his body and he was rendered deaf in his right 
ear. No braver or more devoted soldier served during the great Civil war thau Dr. 
Putt, and, although his career in the army was marked by numerous hardships, owing 
to sickness and wounds, he fearlessly and unhesitatingly discharged every duty, was 
true to every trust and after hostilities had ceased returned to his home with the 
consciousness of having lent valuable aid in preserving the Union. For one year 
after bis return from the war be attended school at Greensburg, Ohio, after which 
he began reading medicine at Roweville under a relative. Dr. W. H. Putt, and from 
1867 to 1868 be attended a course of medical lectures at Ann Arbor, Mich., then 
bought out Dr. Putt, of Eoweville, and practiced his profession in that place one 
year. He then entered the college of Medicine and Surgery at Cincinnati, and 
after graduating in 1869, became to Mi Uersburg, Elkhart Co., Ind., where he was 
in the active practice of his profession until March 10, 1870. From that time until 
1890, he continued to cure the ills to which man is heir in Middlebury, but owing 
to ill health, which in a great measure resulted from bis service in the army, he 
was compelled to retire from the active practice of his profession, and in 1888 and 
1889 be lectured on microscopic histology in the college of Medicine and Surgery 
at Cincinnati, his being the first course of lectures on that subject ever delivered in 
the institution, and was therefore an honorable distinction. Dr. Putt has been a 
wide reader and is the possessor of one of the largest medical libraries in the 
comity. He was married August 4, 1867. to Rachel, daughter of Peter and Hester 
Wise, and to their union a daughter has been born named Masy. The Doctor be- 
longs to the civic society of the A. F. and A. M. Lodge, Xo. 570, of Middlebury, 
and be is now acting as its secretary. He is a Democrat, he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran Church, and he has always been a scholarly man of scientific 
tastes. 

Henry H. Fickenscher. A large class of the farmers of Clay township led such 
modest and quiet lives as to be seldom heard of outside of their own township. They 
are doing tine work in their own community, but do not care to mingle in the more 
public matters of political life, and devote all their time and energies to the cultivat- 
ion of their farms and the development of the resources of their vicinity. Such men 
deserve more mention than they ordinarily receive, and it is a pleasure to here pre- 
sent one of them in the person of Henry H. Fickenscher, who was born in the town- 
ship in which he now resides February 29, 1859, his parents being John and Caro- 



MEMdlUS OF INDIANA. 239 

Hue (Fox) Fiekenscher. natives of Germany. The father learned the miller's trade 
in his native land and followed that business until coming to America about the year 
1853, after which he at once engaged in farming in Clay township of this county. 
Here he met and married Miss Fox, whose parents, George and Anna Fox, were 
native Germans, and settled on a farm near Lakeville, this county. John Fieken- 
scher lived in Clay township for several years, of which he was one of the most svib- 
stautial of the German residents, and became the owner of 160 acres of fertile farm- 
ing land. He did military duty in his native land in accordance with the laws of 
that country. His death occurred on the old homestead, October 3, 188'2, his wife's 
death having taken place a year earlier. They were the parents of four children: 
Ludwig S. Henry H., Edward D. and George. The mother of these children had been 
previously married to a Mr. Glassauer, by whom she had one child, Charles. Henry 
H. Fiekenscher was reared on the homestead in Clay township, and like the average 
farmer's boy, obtained a practical education in the district schools in the vicinity of 
his home. He became thoroughly familiar with the details of agriculture during 
his youthful days, and many a day was spent in hard labor on the farm. Upon 
starting out in life for himself it was but natural that he should become a farmer, 
and after the death of his worthy parents he purchased eighty acres of the old home- 
stead and on this place still makes his home. A brother purchased the balance, 
consisting of eighty acres, but Mr. Fiekenscher has charge of and farms the entire 
place, and on account of his careful management the income from the same is ample. 
Fifteen of his eighty acres is timber land. He was married on June 10. 1883, to 
Sophia Kuntsman, who was born in January, 1862, in Penn township, this county. 
her father and mother being Wolf and Sophia (Schafer) Kuntsman, native Germans, 
but now useful and worthy residents of St. Joseph county. Mr. and Mrs. Fieken- 
scher are the parents of two children: Lillie E., born September 5, 1884, and Hilda 
S., born April 4, 1892. The principles of the Democratic party have always com- 
mended themselves to his judgment, and he supports them whenever called upon to 
do so, like the consistent and straightforward man that he is. 

John J. Johnson is one of those men who faithfully served his country during 
the troublous times of war and is now a prominent, law-abiding, public-spirited and 
patriotic citizen. He is a product of the Buckeye State, his birth occurring in 
Marion county on the 1st of December, 1844, on a farm which was owned by his 
father, who came of a prominent English family who settled in America in the lat- 
ter part of the seventeenth century, within about twenty miles of Baltimore, Md. 
McMurray Johnson, the grandfather of John J., removed from Maryland to Marion 
county, Ohio, where he reared his three children: John M., Jonathan and Eliza. He 
cleared and improved a good farm about twelve miles west of Marion and there his 
declining years were spent. He was in good circumstances, owning about 24( I acres of 
land, and was a thrifty and practical farmer. The township in which he lived was 
named Montgomery from the town he came from in Maryland, and his home was 
but eight miles from the spot where the brave Col. Crawford was burned at the 
stake by the Indians. Mr. Johnson was an old-time pioneer to whom the West is 
largely indebted for the prosperity which it now enjoys, and after a well- spent life 
he died February 11, 1859. at the age of seventy-eight years. John M. Johnson, 
his son, was born on the old homestead in Maryland, October 16, 1802, and when a 
young man he removed to Ohio with his father, where he assisted him in clearing 
his woodland farm. He was given common school advantages and was married in 
Marion county, Ohio, to Eliza, daughter of William and Sarah (Doty) Odel, the 
former of whom was one of the tirst settlers of that county and came of English 
stock that for generations had tilled the soil. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Johnson 
resulted in the birth of six children that lived to grow to maturity: Thomas, George, 
John, Perry, Sarah and Nancy. Mr. Johnson remained on a farm in Marion 
county, Ohio, until 1845, then moved to La Grange county, Ind., settled on a tract 
of wild land where he resided until his death, May 28, 1850, when forty-eight years 

16 



340 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of age. He accumulated a considerable amount of worldly goods, was a substantial 
farmer and an upright citizen. He had three sons in the Rebellion: George, who be- 
came a member of Company C, One Hundredth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer In- 
fantry, served five months and died at Grand Junction, Tenn., of typhoid fever, 
February 4, 1863; Perry was in the Twelfth Indiana Cavalry, and John J., the sub- 
ject of this sketch. The latter was but an infant when his parents came to Indiana 
and in the district schools of La Grange county his scholastic education was acquired. 
"When Abraham Lincoln issued his second call for 300,000 men, Mr. Johnson 
promptly responded to the call and when only seventeen years of age, August 2, 
1862, enlisted in Company G, Eighty-eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, 
as a private. His regiment was organized at Fort Wayne and mustered into the 
service of the United States at Indianapolis, August 29, 1862, and he soon found 
himself at Camp Yates, Ky. He was in the battle of Perryville, October 8, 
1862; Stone River, December 30-31, 1862, and January 1-2, 1863; Elk River. Tal- 
lahassee, Ringgold, Grayville, White Oak Ridge, Tunnel Hill, Buzzard's Roost, 
Reaaca, Dallas, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Eutaw Creek, Jonesboro, 
Atlanta in the pursuit of Hood and in that greatest march in history — Sherman's 
march vo the sea, after which he took part in the engagements at Savannah, Averys- 
boro, Beutonville and Raleigh. He was present at the Grand Review in Washing- 
ton, D. C, May 24, 1865. In all the toilsome marches made by his regiment he 
only rode four miles. He possessed a good constitution and bore the hardships and 
privations of war well. He was mustered out at Washington, June 7, 1865, and was 
honorably discharged at Indianapolis June 18, 1865, and ten days later returned to 
his home and prepared to resume his unfinished education. He attended the La 
Grange Collegiate lustitiite for five years, from which he graduated in 1870, 
after which he became a pedagogue, an occupation which he followed in Indi- 
ana, Michigan, Illinois and Iowa in the common and graded schools, for 
sixteen years. On the 1st of June, 1871, he married Carrie, daughter of 
Joseph R. and Maria B. (Barrett) Ludwig, the former of whom was born 
in Berks, Penn., February 4, 1825, a German by descent and a miller by 
trade, which occupation he followed after his removal to Michigan in 1860. In 1863 
he went to Van Buren, Ind. , and in 1875 came to Middlebury and purchased the 
Middlebury Mill, which he operated until his death, June 5, 1892. His marriage 
with Miss Barrett took place November 1, 1849, and resulted in the birth of two 
children: Harry B. and Carrie. Mr. Ludwig was an industrious man of high 
character, well educated and took an especial interest in theology. He was a deep 
thinker, an able reasoner, and he and his wife were members of the Lutheran Church, 
in which he was an elder for many years. Mrs. Ludwig came of Puritan stock of 
New England. Her grandfather, Nathan Barrett, and bis son Alva C. , settled in 
Northumberland county, Penn., where the former became a prominent and wealthy 
citizen, was a State representative, held many county offices and was for a long 
time justice of the peace. After his marriage Mr. Johnson taught school and also 
farmed, but later, in addition to teaching, followed milling at White Hall, 111. In 
1881 he came to Middlebury and worked in the mill with Mr. Ludwig. He and his 
wife are members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has been both elder and 
deacon. He is a stanch Republican and is one of the charter members of Post 
192, O. & M. Foster Lodge, G. A. R., of Middlebury, and was its commander three 
successive years. He has always taken much interest in educational matters and has 
been secretary of the Middlebury school board tor the past three years. He is a 
member of the Chosen Friends, of which he has been secretary six years and is 
Deputy Grand Counselor of the State. He owns a nice residence in Middlebury, is 
a responsible citizen and stands deservedly high in the estimation of his fellows. 
He is the father of two children: Guy, born June 14, 1873, and May, born March 
15, 1882. He did not hesitate to risk his life for his country and during his service 
was slightly wounded on three different occasions. At one time a bullet passed 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 341 

directly through his rubber blanket, which was folded snugly, so that the ball made 
twenty-three holes in it and one through his blouse. He lost no time, was never 
in the hospital and was always ready to report for duty. His record was a very 
honorable one and one of which his children have every reason to be proud. 

Christian Stdtz. In the midst of the failures and disasters of life, it is a real 
pleasure to review the career of a man whose efforts have been crowned with suc- 
cess, and whose life has been honorable in every particular, as has Christian 
Stutz. He is now one of the foremost merchants of Middlelmry, and has been an 
active business man of the town since 1854, at which time Middlebury was a small 
hamlet. He was born in Lorraine, France, March 7, 1826, it being now a portion 
of Germany, a son of Jacob and Ann (Stiner) Stutz, the former of whom tilled the 
soil for a living until his death, which occurred at the untimely age of thirty-one 
years, at which time he was an earnest member of the Lutheran Church. Daniel 
Steiner, the maternal grandfather, was a soldier in the French army, and served 
under the great Napoleon in the celebrated Russian campaign, and was in the dis- 
astrous retreat from Moscow. After the death of Jacob Stutz his widow came to 
America and was here married to Peter Amstutz, and by him she became the mother 
of one child, whom she named Catherine. Christian Stutz, who was the only scion 
of his father's house, was brought by his mother and his maternal uncle to America 
in 1827, and after his mother's second marriage resided with his relatives. From 
that time on he was reared by his uncles, Daniel, Christian and Peter, and with 
some property which his mother left him and through the kindness of his uncles, 
he was given a practical common and high-school education at Wadsn'orth, Canton 
and Wooster. His instructors were fortunately able and experienced, and among the 
most competent were Archibald and John McGregor, the latter of whom ran for gov- 
ernor of the State of Ohio at one time. Christian Stutz learned the details of farm- 
ing in his youth, but when he left Ohio he turned his attention to clerking at Bristol, 
Ind., for Samuel B. Romaine, with whom he remained six months. Following 
this he did farm work in La Grange county, Ind. , for four years, after which he came to 
Middlebury and in March, 1854, he opened a mercantile establishment of his own, 
which he has conducted with a steadily increasing business up to the present time. 
When at Bristol he married Ann, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Harmon) 
Walker, the former of whom came from England and followed blacksmithing and 
farming. The Harmons were also from England. To Mr. and Mrs. Stutz four chil- 
dren have been born, all of whom lived to mature years: Eugene E., Milton A., Alice 
and Emma. Mr. Stutz began business in a small way and with a small capital, but 
by strict attention to his affairs, integrity and prompt dealing, he gradually built 
up a business of large proportions. Since 1880 his son, Milton A., has been in the 
business with him. and the name of the firm is C. Stutz & Son. They deal in cloth- 
ing, dry goods, boots and shoes, notions and groceries, in fact, everything contained 
in a general store. They carry one of the largest stocks in the county and the 
largest in Middlebury, or any country town, and have an excellent reputation as 
accommodating merchants and honorable dealers. Mr. Stutz has always attended 
strictly to his business, and has never meddled with affairs that did not concern him. 
He is a Democrat politically, but has never been an aspirant for office. In 1885 he 
erected a substantial brick store, and this year, 1892, erected a similar establishment 
adjoining, which will double the capacity of the establishment. His daughter Emma 
was married to Thomas Daily, a clerk in the First National Bank of Goshen. Milton 
A. married Alice C. Mather, by whom be has four children. Eugene E. is a member 
of the firm of Stutz & Walker, buggy manufacturers, of Goshen. Milton A. was 
born January 25, 1858, in Middlebury, received a practical education in the com- 
mon schools, and is a well-informed, intelligent and popular man of affairs. His 
wife is a daughter of Jonathan S. and Fannie (Defus) Mather, and her union with 
Mr. Stutz has resulted in the birth of the following children: Fannie A., Clara A., 
Mamie E. and Laura W. Socially Mr. Stutz is a member of the K. of P., and 



242 . PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

politically he is a Republican. He possesses the confidence of the people, and has 
been treasui'er of the town of Middlebury for seven years. He is a pushing young 
merchant, and the stock of goods which he and his father carry is valued at 
$16,000. 

J. W. Slear, the well-known harness manufacturer and dealer in carriages and horse 
goods, in Elkhart, Ind., is at the head of the well-known firm of J. W. Slear & Son, 
their place of business being located at 420 South Main street, in one of the finest 
business blocks in the city. The firm has become widely known for the excellence of 
the goods sent out from their establishment, and has established a reputation which 
has secured a large and constantly increasing trade, which is most successfully main- 
tained. The enormous increase in the demand for carriages and wagons of all 
grades has led Mr. Slear and his son to engage in this branch of business also, and 
they keep a complete and select line of goods which they sell at very reasonable 
rates, and have created, especially among the farmers of the surrounding country, a 
popularity that may almost be termed personal friendships. He was born in Union 
county, Penn., in January, 1844, to Ellas and Susanna (Colar) Slear, who were of 
German descent and also natives of the Keystone State. The paternal grandfather, 
William Slear, was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was an early settler of the 
State of Pennsylvania, where he followed the occupation of a tanner. Peter Colar, 
the mother's father, was a blacksmith by trade, and was a man of intelligence and 
energy. In 1864 Elias Slear removed to Ludington, Mich., where he resided 
until his death in 1884, having been quite prominent in military tactics and a cap- 
tain in the Pennsylvania State militia. He and his wife became the parents of eight 
children: Mrs. Harmon, of Ludington, Mich.; Kate, of Ludington, Mich.; Jane, 
of Brown county, Kan. ; and John W. , who is the youngest of these children who 
are the living members of the family. John W. Slear was reared on a farm, ed- 
ucated in the public schools, and in 1861, when only sixteen years of age, his name 
could be found on the rolls of Company D, Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry, with 
which he served until the war closed. He held the rank of second sergeant and 
was in the battles of Gettysburg, Fredericksburg and Antietam, besides numerous 
other engagements of less importance. He was a useful and faithful soldier, was 
always found at his post of duty, and owing to his rugged constitution was not sick 
a day during his long term of service. He was not wounded, and upon being 
mustered out at Hagerstown, Md. , he returned home in fair health, to once 
more take upon himself the duties of civil life. Six weeks later he started west, and 
for one year was a resident of Bellevue, Ohio, but since 1866 he has been a resident 
of Elkhart, Ind., which at that time had about 1,000 inhabitants. He estab- 
lished himself in business in a store room located where the Masonic Block now 
stands, but fire destroyed this establishment and left him, stranded on a financial 
shoal. Pluck and energy stood by him however, and in a short time he was again 
out of deep water and floating on a prosperous sea. Although twenty-six years of 
his life were spent in the service of others as a journeyman, they were well spent, and 
in laboring for others he learned the value of punctuality, faithfulness and industry 
and these attributes have been of great use to him since he engaged in business for 
himself in 1891. His place of business is located at 420 South Main street, in one 
of the finest blocks in the city, and although it has been in operation only a short 
time it will compare favorably with any similar establishment in this part of the 
State, and ably demonstrates what can be acomplished when a man possesses deter- 
mination and good business qualifications, as Mr. Slear most certainly does. As a 
harness-maker Mr. Slear has long had a reputation of his own, and farmers espe- 
cially come uniisual distances to purchase goods from him and to have him oversee 
their repairing, while his city patronage is not surpassed by any concern. It is a 
well-known fact that his goods are always reliable and his prices reasonable. The 
firm of Slear & Son carry an immense stock of light and heavy harness, ranging 
from the article used by a truckman to that desired by a gentleman who owns fancy 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 243 

horses aad drives for pleasure ouly. They also carry a fall line of carriages, road 
carts, wagons and vehicles of all descriptions, turf goods, whips, winter supplies, 
trunks, valises, bags, telescopes, gloves and mittens in endless supply, in fact every- 
thing that is kept in a first-class store. The stock is finely arranged in apartments 
and is so advantageously disposed of about their handsome and commodious store 
room and in the large show windows, that it is the observed of all observers. A force 
of harness makers and expert repairers is constantly kept busy, and make it a point 
to turn out work with neatness and dispatch. Mr. Slear's son, Ed A. Slear, be- 
came a member of the firm in May, 1892, and by his energy and pleasant and 
accommodating ways has contributed very considerably to the growth of the business 
they now enjoy. He is a capable and energetic young man, and for several years 
was an operator on the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway, where he was 
highly esteemed for his efficiency and trustworthiness. He is an able assistant to 
his father, and together they can not fail short of marked success, if hard work and 
business insight can accomplish anything. Mr. Slear is very popular throughout 
the county and has served four years as constable, four years as city councilman and 
has been suggested as a candidate for mayor, but respectfully declined the honor. 
Any ordinary city office he is capable of filling, but prefers to devote his time 
and energies to his business affairs. He is a member of the K. of P. and having 
been a gallant soldier in the Union army, is now an enthusiastic member of the G. 
A. R. posts of the city, and in addition is a member of the civic society of 
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Politically he is a Democrat and has 
supported the men and measures of that party. The maiden name of his wife 
was Lou Smith, by whom he became the father of two children; Charles and Ed- 
ward, the former, as well as the latter, having been employed on the Lake 
Shore Railroad. Mr. Slear's second wife was Miss Lou Walter, by whom he has 
three children: Nora, Walter and Pearl. Mr. Slear owns a handsome residence in 
Riverside as well as considerable other vahiable property, and he and his wife are 
worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Edson Foster. Although Elkhart county, Ind. , is well known for the energy, 
enterprise and push of its merchants, Edson Foster stands in the van in this 
enterprise, has shown much wisdom in the conduct of mercantile affairs, and 
through honorable efforts has built up a paying patronage and an enviable reputa- 
tion. He is of Scotch-Irish descent and his remote ancestors were among the 
early settlers of New England. Hesekiah Foster, his grandfather, was a native 
of New Hampshire and took part in the American Revolution. He married and 
reared a family, and both he and his wife lived to an advanced age, his family 
being especially noted for longevity. William E. Foster, his sou, was born in 
1797 on a New Hampshire farm, and after receiving a common-school education, 
he left his native State to remove to Vermont, where he was married to Lucinda 
Walker, by whom he became the father of four children: Jane, Emily, Mary and 
Edson. After farming in Vermont until 1829 he removed with his family to 
Orleans county, N. Y. , where he purchased a farm on which he resided for seven 
years, coming to Middlebury, Ind., in 1836, and until his death resided four miles 
south of the town. His dissolution took place in the spring of 1837 at the age of 
forty years, at which time he was the owner of 240 acres of land. He was quiet 
and unpretentious in his manners, but possessed decidedly independent views and 
in politics was an old line AVhig, and in religion was a Universalist in belief. Edson 
Foster was born at Tunbridge, Vt. , August 29, 1821, was brought up on a farm, 
received the advantages of the common schools, and at the age of fifteen years 
came to Elkhart county, Ind., with his father, traveling by team and lake vessels. 
He well remembers the Pottawattomie Indians who were removed from northern 
Indiana, the year following their arrival. In 1845 Edson Foster married May H. , 
daughter of James J. and Dolly (Hoffman) White, and to them one child was born, 
a daughter, who lived to grow to maturity: Mary J. After his marriage Mr. 



244 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Foster remained for a short time on the home farm, and, haviug been a teacher 
prior to his marriage, he continued to follow this occupation in Elkhart county for 
about ten years thereafter, and became well known as a thorough and practical 
educator and a good disciplinarian. After following the calling of a clerk for four 
years he embarked on the mercantile sea in Middlebury, and has followed the 
calling uninterruptedly and with financial success since 1852, but at the same time 
has looked after his farming interests also. He has from time to time added to his 
land until he is now the owner of about seven hundred acres, and is considered a 
practical and experienced farmer. He is an independent thinker, and throughout a 
long business career he has shown keen commercial characteristics, and has a 
reputation that is untarnished. He is a quiet man of broad and liberal views on all 
subjects of importance, is widely known throughout his section of the county, and 
his experience as a man of affairs has given him much insight into human nature 
and little sympathy with pretentious show. He has supported Republican 
principles for many years and gives liberally of his means in support of enterprises 
that commend themselves to his excellent judgment. His wife was born in New 
Jersey and is a woman of much intelligence and excellent opinions. Their 
daughter, Mary J., married Albert J. Hickox, a man of liberal education and tine 
business ability, and a resident of San Francisco, Cal., where be was reared. He 
was a member of the Pacific Mining Stock Exchange of San Francisco, and died 
there July 1, 1883. After the Sand-lot riots occurred, he, in connection with D. O. 
Mills and other capitalists, went to New York City and formed the Petroleum and 
Mining Stock Exchange, with offices in Philadelphia and New York. His son, 
Edson, is now attending the Military Academy of Upper Alton, 111., and is a young 
man of intelligence and much promise. Mrs. Hickox has resided in South Bend with 
her parents since his decease. 

John V. Zeitler is a Bavarian by birth, for in that country he first saw the light 
of day, May 2, 1835, but he has been a resident of this country since 1847, and has 
become thoroughly Americanized. His parents, Henry and Catherine (Klughart) 
Zeitler, were born in Germany, the former in 1802, aud throughout life his atten- 
tion was devoted to farming. He was married to Catherine Klughart, who in due 
course of time presented him with five children: Margaret, Catherine, Elizabeth, 
John V. , and Andrew, whose death occurred in Alabama, at which time he was in 
the mercantile business and the owner of 3,000 acres of land. The father of these 
children died in Germany in 1842, and his widow subsequently married John M. 
Meyers, a native of that country, and in 1847 the family came to America, going by 
water to Chicago and up the St. Joseph River on a flat-boat, the journey up that 
river occupying one week. As it was during the month of August and the river was 
low, a great deal of time and hard work was necessary in getting their boat over the 
sand bars, etc. They were among the first Germans to come direct to South Bend, 
and soon after they settled on a farm six miles south of the town in the vicinity of 
Bremen, Ind. A year later they took up their residence in Clay township on the 
farm which is now owned and occupied by John V. Zeitler. The land was par- 
tially improved, a log cabin had been built on the place, into which they moved, 
and a little clearing had been done. Both Mr. and Mrs. Meyers died in South Bend. 
John V. Zeitler came to this country with his mother and step-father, and in 1872 
purchased the homestead in Clay township, and his parents moved to South Bend. 
During his early years Mr. Zeitler spent many days in hard labor on the home farm, 
but in 1865 went to South Bend, and in company with his step-father and J. C. 
Knoblock, purchased the St. Joseph Flour Mill, the management of which was placed 
in the hands of Mr. Zeitler, which position he acceptably filled for six years. He 
then sold his interest in this mill, returned to Clay township and purchased the old 
homestead for $10,000. At that time there were few improvements on the place, 
and the present fine buildings and the convenient and comfortable surroundings 
represent the industry and thrift of years. The farm, which contains 160 acres, is 



MEMOIRS OP INDIANA. 245 

esceptioaally fertile, and is conveniently located one mile north of the city limits 
of South Bend, which makes it especially valuable. He owns 135 acres in another 
part of the same township, the result of his intelligent management, and every 
enterprise to which he has devoted his attention has been a successful one. Since 
he has been a resident of Clay township he has held the offices of trustee and 
assessor, but as a rule has not been an aspirant for office, his business enterprises 
occupying the most of his attention. He began the battle of life without means, 
and can well recall the time when he worked for 50 cents a day, and $6 and $10 per 
month. At the present time he is one of the heaviest tax payers in the township. 
He was married May 9, 1867, to Miss Lotta Kleindinst, a native of Germany, by 
whom he has two children: Charles and Edward. Mr. Zeitler is a worthy member 
of the A. F. & A. M., and politically supports Democratic principles. 

William H. Alley. Tradition says that the founder of the Alley family in 
America, came from England with the Pilgrims in the famous ship, the "Mayflower," 
and settled in New England in the Green Mountain State, where W. H. Alley, the 
grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born and received a common-school 
education. During his early manhood he learned the trade of a tailor, and traveled 
throughout the country, making buckskin suits for the people, which won for him 
the cognomen of the "buckskin tailor." He was married twice, and by his tiist 
wife became the father of several children who eventually settled in the blue grass 
regions of Kentucky. Their mother died in Vermont. Mr. Alley fiually removed 
from his native State to Washington county, Penn., at which time countless numbers 
of deer roamed through the forests, and every farmer and hunter was well supplied 
with buckskin, which was made into suits by Mr. Alley, who went from house to 
house for that purpose, which was the general custom in those days. He was mar- 
ried in Pennsylvania to Mrs. Susan J. Eastep, a widow, and their marriage 
resulted in the birth of seven children: James, Henry, John, Ebby, Margaret, 
Betsy and Dorcas. The father of these children died at Pinleyville, Penn., when 
in his sixty-eighth year, and up to the day of his death was very strong, muscular 
and active. The day prior to his death he walked sixty-five miles, and while over- 
heated drank copiously of cold water, which was the immediate cause of his death. 
He was very supple, and could spring over two horses, taking a few steps and 
jumping from the ground. He was a man of sterling integrity, was sober, indus- 
trious, and he and his wife were worthy members of the Baptist Church. His son 
John, the father of the immediate subject of this memoir, was born in Washington 
count}', Penn., and after receiving a good practical education in the common schools, 
began teaching the young idea, and followed this occupation with success in the 
vicinity of his home in Washington county, Penn., for thirty-two years. In con- 
nection with this occupation he followed the calling of a carpenter during the sum- 
mer seasons, these occupations bringing him in a comfortable competency. Jane, 
the daughter of William Henry and Elizabeth (Livingston) Armstrong, became his 
wife, the Armstrongs being of Scotch-Irish and the Livingstons of Irish lineage. 
Six children eventually gathered around their board, whom they named as follows: 
William H., James, Elizabeth, Margaret, Beulah and Susan M. Mr. Alley was an 
intelligent and capable man of business, and while he did not hold office, he attended 
to the township business for others for many years, and in other ways identified 
himself with the welfare of his section. Politically, he was an old line Whig, the 
principles of which he espoused up to the time of his death, which occurred at about 
the age of seventy years. He was at all times temperate and prudent, honorable in 
his dealings, and during his long career as a pedagogue, taught two generations of 
pupils what knowledge they obtained of the "world of books." He was orderly 
sergeant in the old-time militia, and was present with the troops when they were 
called out at the first execution in Washington county, Penn. The circumstances 
of the case were that a runaway slave from Virginia had come into the county in 
his efforts to escape, and was followed by his master who captured him and took 



246 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

bim awaj'. The master was found dead and the slave was recaptured and hung. 
It was believed that he was innocent, that another negro with whom he was asso- 
ciating at the time did the shooting, for he was considered a desperate character. 
William H. Alley, his son, and the subject of this sketch, was born on October 15, 
1830, received the common education of his day, but has since increased his knowl- 
edge by reading good literature and posting himself on tlie current topics of the 
day by means of the newspapers. He learned the trade of a shoemaker in his 
native county, which occupation he followed for about twenty-two years, principally 
in the towns of Cannousburg, Washington and Brownsville. In Millersburg, 
Holmes county, Ohio, he was married to Miss Letitia Haggerty, daughter ef John 
and Mary (Donaldson) Haggerty, the former of whom was of Irish descent and a 
native of Washington county, Penn. He and his wife became the parents of six 
children: Mary J., Ellen, Sarah A., Elizabeth. Matilda and William. Mr. Haggerty 
■was considered an expert stone mason and brick layer in Cannousburg, Penn., and 
at the age of seventy years died in Noblestown, of that State. He and liis wife 
were members of the Methodist Church, in which he was a class leader and church 
trustee. He was well respected, well educated and capable. The Donaldsons were 
of Scotch origin, and the grandfather of Mrs. Alley was a wagon maker, was well- 
to-do, and left considerable property to his children. His brother iu Scotland left 
a large estate which is unclaimed by his American heirs. To Mr. and Mrs. Alley 
three children have been born, the birthplace of all being Cannousburg, Penn. : 
James, born July 12, 1858; Harry H., born April S, 1862; and Mary J., born March 
27, 1863. Mr. Alley was a member of an old militia company and also of the 
Brownsville Blues, which were State troops. He was called out with his company 
in 1862 and assisted in guarding the Williamsburg Pike at Hagerstown, and was 
on the battlefield of Antietam after the battle and before the dead were buried, and 
describes the scene as frightful. He was mustered into the United States service 
at Harrisburg, Penn., and was mustered out at the same place, having prior to that 
time endeavored to enlist on two different occasions, but was rejected on account of 
disability. He was made a Mason at Cannonslnirg, and held the office of senior 
warden, and has since discharged the duties of treasurer of his lodge at Middle- 
bury. In 1865 he came to Middlebury with his family, where he has since followed 
his business of shoemaking. For a long time he did an extensive and pushing 
business, employed two men, and did a great deal of line custom work, for he is a 
ver}' skillful workman and does first-class sewed work. He has always been an 
industrious and economical man, and through these means has accumulated a com- 
petency, and is now in easy circumstances. He gave all his children good educa- 
tions in the graded schools of Middlebury, and his daughter, Mary J., has attended 
the normal school at Goshen and Valparaiso, Ind., and for seven years has been 
a successful teacher of Middlebury, five years of which time she has been in 
the grammar department. The son, James, married Sarah Barnes, by whom he 
has two children, is a house painter by trade, and resides at Mooresville, Mo. ; 
Harry H. is a painter and grainer at Westville, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Alley are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran Church, and politically he was a Douglas Democrat and voted 
that ticket for years, but is now a strong Prohibitionist, and stands high as an hon- 
orable man who has all his life pursued a course of integrity. During the Civil war 
he was deputized by Recruiting Officer McDauiels to take five men from Cannousburg 
to Harrisburg and deliver them to the commander of the post of that city. He was 
well received and took dinner with fche officer of the day. It was at this time that 
he made an ineffectual attempt to enlist in the Union service, but permitted one of 
his apprentices, William Donaldson, who still had two years to serve, to enlist. Ho 
took an active part in the battles of Antietam, Gettysburg and Fredericksburg, and 
was an excellent soldier. 

Christian Bucher. The very fine farm owned by the subject of this sketch 
comprises 160 acres, is cultivated in a very intelligent and profitable manner, and 



MEMOIRS OP INDIANA. 247 

is situated in a desirable portion of Clay township. Mr. Bucher is a native of 
■Switzerland, where he was born February 2, 1820, a son of Ulrich and Margaret 
(Platter) Bucher, also of that country, the father's birth occurring August 15, 1784. 
His early days were very monotonous, and were marked by hard and continuous 
labor. He did military service upon attaining a proper age, according to the laws 
of his country, but in 1833 left Switzerland for America, bringing his family with 
him. He settled on a farm in Stark county, Ohio, where he spent a number of 
years, then came to St. Joseph county, purchasing a farm in Clay township, of which 
his son Christian is now a resident. On this farm he spent the remainder of his 
days, paying the last debt of nature October 24, 1858, his wife's death having 
occurred a number of years earlier in Ohio. To him and his wife a family of seven 
children were granted, three of whom are living at the present time. The subject 
of this sketch was thirteen years of age when America became his home and during 
his long residence in the United States he has become thoroughly Americanized and 
is a most loyal subject of Uncle Sam. During the nine years that he resided in 
Stark county, Ohio, he attended the district schools, but as the advantages were 
very poor, his education was but limited. He carried a Bible to school, it being the 
only book available, and from it learned what knowledge he could of reading. In 
the spring of 1842 he came to St. Joseph county and the first year was spent on the 
farm of John Metzger, on Harris Prairie, his services throughout the year amounting 
to $9 per month. At that time his capital consisted of a good constitution and a 
couple of suits of home-made clothes. For ten years he worked by the month and 
by indefatigable industry and perseverance, and the most rigid economy, he was 
enabled to purchase 80 acres of land in Clay township and begin farming for him- 
self. He has since added to his real estate until he now owns 160 acres, which 
makes him one of the most fertile of farms, owing to the careful manner in which 
every detail is looked after. On November 8, 1849, Mr. Bucher took unto himself a 
wife in the person of Miss Mary Smith, who was born in Stark county, Ohio, March 
15, 1832, a daughter of George and Catherine (Kiefer) Smith, both of whom were 
born in Germany and came to America with their parents, their marriage occurring 
at Canton, Ohio, in December, 1829. Mr. Smith was one of the pioneers of St. 
Joseph county, Ind. , taking up his residence in Harris township on the county line 
between Elkhart and St. Joseph counties in the spring of 1835, where he and his 
wife eventually passed from life. Three years after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. 
Bucher they settled on the farm in Clay township where they now reside. Six chil- 
dren have been born of their union: Lydia, George, David, Edna, Eddie and Elva. 
Mr. and Mrs. Bucher are members of the Evangelical Church, of which they are 
active and liberal supporters, and he is a supporter of Republican principles. 

William McCombs has long since passed to that bourne whence no traveler 
returns, but he left his impress on the section in which he resided and his memory 
will long be treasured by those who knew and respected him in life. He was born 
near Worcester, Ohio, January 31, 1818, a son of Lambert and Hannah (Hague) 
McCouibs, natives of Pennsylvania, who were among the early settlers of St. Joseph 
county, coming here in July. 1829, and braving the dangers and privations of 
pioneer life in order to estalalish a comfortable home for himself and family. He 
first settled in Clay township near the present site of Sider's Mill, and there the 
family passed the winter of 1829-30. The following spring they removed to the 
west side of Portage Prairie in German township, in which year the land came into 
market, and Mr. McComb purchased a farm in Section 26, which he settled 
in the spring of the following year. The land was wild and unimproved and the 
Indian population many times exceeded that of the white, but Mr. McComb was of a 
hopeful disposition and knew that time would remedy that state of affairs, so set 
energetically to work to improve his farm. A log cabin was erected on the place 
and there he made his home until circumstances permitted the erection of a better 
residence. After making many improvements Mr. McComb sold the property and 



248 PICTORIAJ. AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

settled one mile west on a farm on Portage Prairie. About the year 1848 he disposed 
of this property also, and in the fall of that year started for California. The family 
spent that winter in Missouri and the following spring resumed their journey 
westward. From that time until his death Mr. McCombs made California his home, 
and there his wife also passed from life at the advanced age of ninety-nine years. 
AYilliam McCombs, the subject of this sketch was a lad of about eleven years when 
his parents came to St. Joseph county, and in this section he was reared to the inde- 
pendent and healthful life of the farmer. On September 12, 1839, he was married 
to Miss Eva Cripe, who was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, March 2, 1816, a 
daughter of John and Eva (Roof) Cripe. After their marriage they immediately 
located in Clay township, which has been the home of the family ever since and 
where they reared a family of nine children to honorable and independent manhood 
and womanhood. They christened their children as follows: Elizabeth, John, Lam- 
bert, Maria, Samuel G., Eva E. , Hannah L., Sarah A. and William F. The father of 
these children was called from life in December, 1885, at which time he was a 
worthy member of the German Baptist Church, and one of its most substantial sup- 
porters. He was a very generous father, a kind and loving husband, and left his 
family well provided for. His widow is the owner of 247 acres of valuable land and 
resides in a commodious and comfortable residence. Eva E., Hannah L. and 
Sarah A. make their home with their mother. Mrs. McCombs rents her farm, and 
although her hair is white with the snows of many winters, she is still wide awake, 
energetic and active and transacts her business affairs in an intelligent and praise- 
worthy manner. She is one of the oldest settlers of St. Joseph county now living, 
for she came to this section with her parents in the fall of 1830. She has long been 
a worthy member of the German Baptist Church, and being kind hearted, charitable 
and generous, she has numerous friends. 

W. F. West is a business man of Middlebury, Ind., who has become well known 
for the honorable manner in which he has conducted his affairs, as well as for his 
shrewdness and sagacity as a financier. His father, Fletcher L. West, was of Eng- 
lish and Scotch lineage, but was a native of the Old Dominion, where he first saw 
the light of day on January 8, 1833. In his youth he received but three months' 
schooling, but managed to learn to read and write, and when almost totally unfitted 
to fight the battle of life for himself, he, at the early age of fourteen years, left 
home to make his own way in the world. In childhood he was taken by his mother 
to Buchanan, Mich., but upon starting out to fight the battle of life for himself he 
came to Elkhart county, Ind., and here learned the trade of a cooper, at which he 
worked in Elkhart arid Carson, principally, for a number of years, conducting a stave 
factory and cooper shop combined for three years thereafter at Adamsville, Mich. 
In 1878 he settled down to farming in Jefferson township, Elkhart county, where 
he is at present residing, and where he has many warm friends. His marriage with 
Miss Maria Williams was consummated in 1842, she being a daughter of Henry and 
Rebecca Williams. Mr. West has become the owner of a nicely improved and 
exceptionally well cultivated farm of eighty acres. Politically he has always sup- 
ported the platform of the Democrat party, and he and his wife have long been 
earnest members of the United Brethren Church. Although Mr. West is now in 
comfortable circumstances, he has traveled a rough road to gain a competency, and 
what he is now enjoying he has the satisfaction of knowing has been earned through 
his own efforts. His children are named as follows: William F., Otis C, George 
C. and Zilda A. The eldest member of this family, William F. West, was born at 
Carson, Ind., July 28, 1859, received a common-school education and learned the 
cooper business of his father. After working in Goshen two years he, in 1886, 
opened a cooper shop in Middlebury and employed four men the year round, a con- 
siderable portion of the time employing eight men, during which time he turned 
out a good deal of cooper's ware. In 1890, 12,000 flour barrels and 2,500 butter 
tubs were made. Ou April 12, 1883, he married Mrs. Jennie Cornell, a widow, and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 249 

daughter of Benjamin Zeigler. Mr. and Mrs. West have one daughter named 
Mabel. Mrs. West was the mother of two children at the time of her second 
marriage, George V. and Mattie J. Cornell. Mr. West is a member of the K. of 
P., Middlebury Lodge, No. 311, in which he holds the office of prelate. In politics 
he is a Prohibitionist, and is a firm believer in the temperance movement of the 
present day. He has recently been elected justice of the peace, but held the same 
office in 1890, the admirable way in which he adjusted his neighbors' difficulties 
resulting in his present election, which office he won, although his opponent was a 
prominent old office holder and a man highly esteemed. He is the owner of real 
estate in Middlebury, comprising in all, besides the lots on which his residence and 
shop are situated, nine acres within the corporation. He stands deservedly high 
among the people of Middlebury, and is a citizen of excellent morals. He and his 
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which Mr. West is a 
licensed exhorter. He is also Sunday-school superintendent and holds the office of 
steward. He is an intelligent man who holds his own views on all subjects, and, 
being a wide reader of good literature, his views are practical and sound. David 
B. Zeigler, a brother of Mrs. West, was a member of an Indiana regiment, enlist- 
ing from Jefferson township, Elkhart county, in 1862, and was killed at the battle 
of Murfreesboro, Tenn. He, in partnership with Mathew S. Caldwell, of South 
Bend, estaljlished an extensive cannery in Middlebury in the spring of 1893, for the 
putting up of fruits and vegetables. 

Stephen M. Cummins, D. D. S. In this country where so many young men are 
thrown upon their own jesources at an early age and are often obliged, while yet 
inexperienced and while yet unfamiliar with their own tendencies and inclinations, 
to choose their occupation in life, it can not always be expected that the most suit- 
able or congenial pursuit will be selected. It thus often occurs that a young man 
finds after a few years that he has made a mistake, and that in some other pursuit 
he can find a larger sum of pleasure and more substantial results. In the old country, 
where too often genius and ambition are both absolutely opposed by the old adage, 
" follow your father, my son, and do as your father has done," young men do not 
have the advantage they have here. In this country it is the trend of legislation 
to place no obstacle in the way of the full development of talent and the sky- 
ward expansion of genius. Consequently, it should be impressed upon the minds 
of youth that they should begin at an early age to practice introspection and should 
seriously study the famous Delphic oracle, ''know thyself." They will thus find 
as suitable an occupation as did Stephen M. Cummins who, while yet young, 
selected an occupation, that of dentistry, which apparently was just suited to his 
qualifications and desires. But in the case of Mr. Cummins, as in the case of 
many other men possessing a great variety of natural gifts, other occupations 
might have been chosen and the same or higher success have been achieved. This 
can not be used as an argument against the importance of self study, because, 
notwithstanding the great variety of natural gifts, it is still true that each person 
should discover what he is best fitted for and what pursuit contributes mostly to his 
pleasure and his purse. While Mr. Cummins would unquestionably have made a 
success as a business man, or as a practitioner of law or many other of the 
learned professions, it is likewise true that no dentist in Indiana has gone down 
deeper into the details of his profession, or carried the practice to greater per- 
fection. Let us see what he has accomplished. 

He was born in Elderton, Penn., August 22, 1889, and is of that famous 
Scotch-Irish ancestry which is noted for having given to the world nearly all the 
great orators and many of the most distinguished statesmen of modern times. 
Thus to begin with he was blessed with the blood and the renown of a famous race, 
a persistent, aggressive people destined to rise in company with the Anglo-Saxon to 
the highest civilization yet seen on earth. The family of which he is a distin- 
guished member first came to America for permanent residence about the time of the 



250 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

Revolutionary war and located in the eastern part of the "Keystone State." where 
many of the descendants j'et reside. The Doctor's father, William S. Cummins, 
was born in Indiana coiiuty, Penn., and was there reared and educated. Upon 
attaining his majority he went to an adjoining county and followed his trade of 
carpentering, and there married Miss Isabella M. George, the mother of Stephen 
M. She came of an excellent family and in time presented her husband with 
live children, but unfortunately died when our subject was about twelve years of 
age and lies buried in the cemetery of the United Presbyterian Church in Arm- 
strong county, Penn. It thus transpired through the inscrutable providence of 
God that Stephen M. was destined to grow to manhood without the loving care of 
a mother, though through his tenderer years she had guided his footsteps. His 
youth and early manhood were passed in his native State and there a limited edu- 
cation only was secured to supplement his strong Scotch-Irish qualities. In 1855, 
not being certain of what he wanted, he undertook to learn the molder's trade under 
the guidance of an uncle, but was soon forced to abandon it, owing to failing health. 
Fortunately he then hit upon the profession which fate decreed should be his occu- 
pation through life — dentistry. He began the study at the age of seventeen years, 
and after close application and hard study, for about two years, hung out his shingle 
in Dayton, Penn. But he did not cease studying. He realized fully the great 
importance of keeping abreast of the times in the development of methods and appli- 
ances; in fact, from that day to this has been a constant student of the principles of 
his profession. This fact, coupled with his clear mind, strict honesty and determi- 
nation, has been the secret of his success. In 1859 he came farther west and 
located at Blufftou, Ind., subsequently moving to Warsaw, Ind., and in 1862 to 
Elkhart, where he has since lived and labored. Upon his arrival here he was but 
twenty-two years old, was without money or friends, had no resources whatever, as 
his father was poor, save his intelligence, pluck, laudable ambition and unswerving 
honesty of purpose. Yes, he had also the high renown of his race and had his 
profession. What could be expected but the acquirement of a competency and an 
honorable name? But he was compelled to struggle amid discouragements, for a 
great war was upon the nation and times were too hard to patronize the dentist, 
when aches could be borne, or teeth extracted gratis by the village blacksmith. 
Amid the hard times the outlook was rendered more discouraging by his ill health — 
in fact, sickness prevented him from entering the army and well nigh prevented him 
from making a livelihood from his profession. Steadily, as times grew better, his 
business expanded and his skill increased. Customers continued to multiply and 
prosperity was assured. Friends arose around him, for his life was pure, his social 
attainments high and his manners attractive and winning. Thus he grew in influence 
and usefulness until to-day he is one of the most distinguished citizens of the State. 
His first unpretentious office was in Morehouse block on Main street, and there his 
first years of waiting and discouragement were passed. Now his elegant rooms are 
a delight to the eye and his practice is probably the largest in the State. After 
a time he found himself unable to do the work required of him and was compelled 
to secure assistants, of which he now has several. All the latest and most improved 
methods and appliances are found in his well-equipped office. A full set of beautiful 
teeth can be produced in his office in four hours. Every improvement which inven- 
tion and science has given to the dental world has been taken advantage of by Dr. 
Cummins. In 1869 he took the degree of doctor of dental surgery from the Ohio 
College of Dental Surgery, Cincinnati. In 1885 he was elected mayor of Elkhart 
and served one term. Back in his life when he was first endeavoring to solve the 
bread and butter pi-oblem, while he was at Bluffton, Ind., he met, loved and won a 
beautiful girl, Miss Helen M. Case, of that town, and they were married. Two sweet, 
accomplished daughters are the result of this union. The Doctor is gentlemanly, 
full of enterprise and energy, a lover of home and country, and affiliates with the 
Masonic fraternity and the Episcopal Church. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 251 

Albert J. Knepp, of Middlebury, Ind., is among the self made and practical 
business men of this town and has certainly been the architect of his own fortuues. 
as be began life with nothing except a sturdy determination to succeed by industry 
and thrift. He comes of an old colonial family of Pennsylvania, whose ancestors 
came from Germany at a period long antedating the American Revolution. The 
great-grandfather of Albert J. Knepp, Peter Knepp, was a soldier of that war and 
his son Peter was a soldier ot the War of 1812, and gave valuable aid to the American 
cause. He resided with his people in Snyder county, Penn., for many years, 
and there he became a substantial and progressive farmer, a calling to which his 
attention was directed the greater portion of his life. His sou Peter, the father of 
the subject of this sketch, was born in that county and was there married to Sophia 
Smith, by whom he became the father of six children: Edward, Albert J., Sophia, 
Margaret. Polly and Calvin. The father of these children, like his father before 
him, became an honest and prosperous tiller of the soil, won the highest respect of 
his acquaintances as an honest and upright maii, and at all times supported the 
platform of the Republican party. At the present time he is supervisor of this 
township and is in the enjoyment of the public's confidence as well as in the 
enjoyment of a comfortable competency. His sun, Albert J. Knepp, was born in 
Snyder county, Penn., July 24, 1855 on the farm belonging to his father, and in 
the district schools in the vicinity of his home he received a practical common - 
school education, the intervals between the school terms being devoted to following 
the plow or wielding the hoe on the home farm. When twenty-one years of age, on 
the 24th of December, 1877, he led to the hymeneal altar Miss Mary Haines, 
daughter of Joseph and Harriet (Rouch) Haines, who were also Pennsylvanians of 
German descent. One child has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Knepp, Gertie, who was 
born on the 7th of January, 1878. After his marriage Mr. Knepp adopted the trade 
of a miller, which he learned under his father-in-law, and for three years worked at 
this business in Pennsylvania. In 1881 he decided to follow Hoi'ace Greeley's advice 
and ''go west,'' and the same year settled on a farm near Emporia, Kan., but 
after a residence there of one year he settled in Goshen, Ind.. and became an 
employe of the Goshen Milling Company, with which he remained for five years and 
here gained the reputation of being a first-class and painstaking miUer. Through 
the exercise of economy, thrift and self-denial, his earnings gradually accumulated 
until he had amassed considerable means, with which he purchased a half interest 
in the Middlebury Flouring Mill, of Joseph R. Ludwig, and came to Middlebury to 
reside. At that time the mill contained old-fashioned machinery, having but three 
runs of stones, but Mr. Knepp immediately began to make improvements, and soon 
had the mill equipped with modern machinery and it is now a full roller mill, pro- 
ducing exceptionally fine flour for the general trade, made by the new process sys- 
tem, meal and feed being also extensively ground. The mill was nicely fitted up in 
modern style at a cost of between §7,000 and S8,000, and through his ov,n efforts he 
now ranks among the first millers of the State, and is intimately acquainted with all 
the latest methods for procuring fine flour. The firm does business under the name 
of Knepp & Elliott, and their trade has grown to such proportions that from 
three to four car loads of flour are shipped per week, besides the large amount of flour 
that goes to supply the home custom. The business is constantly on the increase and 
is successfully managed by Mr. Knepp, who is one of those men who, by determina- 
tion, industry, thrift and economy, raises himself from a humljle l)egining to rank 
among the highest civilians. Such men as he are model American citizens and con- 
stitute the most sterling elements of society. He is held in high esteem by the 
people and has been a member of the town council of Middlebury, to which he was 
elected by his numerous Republican friendi. He and his wife are members in 
good standing of the Lutheran Church, and for many years have kept the 
faith. 

Peter Cripe. This gentleman is one of the many who have spent the greater 



252 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

portioa of their lives ia developing the couatiy that their children and grandchil- 
dren might enjoy the advantages which they themselves were denied. In fact, these 
of the present day are the heirs of all the ages and proBt by the labor and self-de- 
nial of the hard-working classes of times past. Mr. Gripe is a Montgomery county 
Ohioan, where he was born May 12, 1824, his parents being John and Eva (Roof) 
Gripe, natives of Pennsylvania. John Gripe was born August 5, 1798, and in the 
State of his birth he was reared on a farm, in which State he was also married De- 
cember 26, 1813, his wife being a daughter of Peter and Margaret (Replogle) Roof, 
who were also born in the Keystone State. John Gripe removed to Montgomery 
county, Ohio, at an early day and after residing there on a farm until the fall of 
1830, came with his family to St. Joseph county, Ind., and in German township, 
entered 380 acres of land, on which he erected a log cabin, and like the majority of 
pioneer settlers commenced at the beginning. In less than two years after his set- 
tlement he had entered about 900 acres of land in St. Joseph county, which, by 
energy and economy typical of the pioneer, he succeeded in greatly enhancing in 
value by judicious improvements, tin fortunately he did not attain an advanced 
age, for his death occurred February 25, 184:7, at the age of fifty-eight years. His 
widow survived him until December 12, 1863, having borne him a family of twelve 
children who were christened as follows: Elizabeth, Eva, Daniel, Margaret, Mary, John, 
Peter, Adam, David, Jacob, Fannie and Samuel. Peter Gripe came with his parents 
to this county and the greater portion of his life has been spent in German town- 
ship, with the interests of which he has thoroughly identified himself. His educa- 
tion was principally obtained in the subscription schools then in vogue but his advan- 
tages in this respect were of quite a limited nature. When his father died in 1849 
the paternal duties of the family fell upon his shoulders and a younger brother, 
but the latter died about a year later and his responsibilities and duties became 
still greater. He remained on the old homestead until 1855, when he took up his 
residence on the farm where he now lives, which consists of 123 acres of laud which 
his father entered in an early day. At the time he settled on this land it was en- 
tirely covered with timber, but since then it has been cleared and made into a line 
farm, well improved with Imildings of all descriptions. January 14, 1855, he was 
married to Tilistia Skiles, who has been a resident of the county from her birth, 
which occurred May 5, 1836, her parents being Thomas and Mary (Fair) Skiles, 
who came to this section in 1830 from Ohio, the father having previously come in 
1828, although he did not remain long at that time. At the present time he makes 
his home with his daughter, Mrs. Gripe, in Clay township, his wife being deceased. 
The union of Mr. and Mrs. Gripe resulted in the birth of nine children: Sarah J., 
Fannie, John, Edward, David, Jacob, Evaline, Elsie and Mary. Mr. Gripe is now 
the owner of 112 acres, nearly all of which is under cultivation and yields a very 
profitable income. Mr. and Mrs. Gripe are members of the German Baptist Ghurch, 
and although not strictly partisan and by no means an office seeker, he is a Repub- 
lican in politics. 

MosES A. GoRDKET. One of the honored and respected citizens of Middlebury, 
Ind., is the postmaster, Moses A. Cordrey, who is possessed of those advanced ideas 
and progressive principles which seem to be among the chief characteristics of the 
average Ohioan. He was born in Tuscarawas county, February 9, 1836, to the mar- 
riage of Thomas G. and Sarah (Shuster) Gordrey, and is one of the following 
children: Mary L., Nathan A., Margaret J., Dorcas, Daniel D., Sarah A., Moses A., 
Comfort, Eliza, Christiana and Diana. Thomas D. Cordrey was born in Pennsyl- 
vania in 1801, secured a fair education in the common schools, and in connection 
with farming, also learned the carpenter's trade. He was married in Columbiana 
county, Ohio, to Miss Shuster, daughter of Daniel Shuster, a farmer, and shortly after- 
ward settled in Tuscarawas county, that State, near New Philadelphia, and worked 
at his trade. He died in the prime of life, in 1844. Both he and his wife were 
members in good standing in the Bible Christian Church, and he took a decided in- 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIASA. 253 

terest in educational matters, being school director for some time. He was respected 
by all for his integrity and uprightness of character. His father, Nathan Cordrey, 
was born in Pennsylvania and came to America when a young man. Settling in 
Lancaster, Penn., he was engaged in farming there until 1823, when he came to 
Ohio and located in Tuscarawas county, on wild land. He cleared up a good farm 
and on this passed the remainder of his days, dying at the advanced age of ninety- 
four years. At one time he was a contractor on the Erie Canal. He married Miss 
Sarah Avers and became the father of nine children. Moses A. Cordrey was left 
an orphan at the early age of eight years, and from that time on made his own way 
in life. He made his home with his brother in-law, K. Jones, afterward a 
merchant of Middlebury, and continued with him until fourteen years of age, re- 
ceiving his education in the common schools. He came to Indiana with Mr. Jones, 
arriving in La Grange county, April 22, 18-15, and settled with him on wild land. 
He remained with him eight years, and then for two years worked for farmers in the 
vicinity. In 1852 he came to Middlebury, where Mr. Jones had already settled, 
and began the miller's trade, at which he worked for four months. He was then 
taken sick with bilious typhoid fever and for some time his life was despaired of. 
After recovering he clerked for Mr. Jones, in the latter' s dry goods store, for five 
years, during which time he attended school in Middlebury and one year at a high 
school at Wolcottville, Ind. After serving as a clerk he learned the business 
of grafting fruit trees, and during the spring of each year worked at this business 
for at least fifteen years, traveling in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and Kentucky. During 
this time he also worked at house painting. During the Rebellion he enlisted at 
Middlebury, August 9, 1862. in Company I, Eighty-eighth Regiment Indiana Volun- 
teer Infantry, and served nearly three years. He was taken sick at Louisville, Ky., 
and for three months was very near death. On recovering he became ward master 
in the same hospital and served until the fall of 1863, when he was transferred 
to Hospital No. 1, Louisville, as hospital steward, remaining in the same for 
four months. He was then transferred to East Capital Prison, and under the 
title of sergeant had full charge of this prison, which contained on an average 300 
prisoners. In one room boxinty jumpers were exclusively confined, in another guer- 
rillas, among them being Capt. Davidson, Jerome Clark. Ellis, Sumauday, Mc- 
Gregor, Major Jones and many other daring men. Capt. Davidson escaped while 
Mr. Cordrey was home on a furlough. The way our subject came to hold this re- 
sponsible position was as follows: General John M. Palmer, who had charge of the 
East Capital Prison, had considerable trouble to get an honest man to take charge 
of the prisoners, their money and effects. The bounty jumpers and substitutes 
often had a considerable amount of money and the officers in charge of the prison 
had been accused by them of dishonesty. On one occasion a prisoner complained 
that he had been robbed of $65. Gen. Palmer made the remark that if he could 
find an honest private he would put him in charge of the prison. (The position was 
then held by a second lieutenant.) Dr. A. J. Octerlomey, the physician in charge 
of Hospital No. 8, exclaimed: "General, you have the man right here in your 
office. Private Cordi-ey." Mr. Cordrey was then writing at a desk about twenty feet 
from Gen. Palmer, who turned to his adjutant and said: "Write an order for Cor- 
drey to take charge of East Capital Prison." Mr. Cordrey was in charge of the 
prison for thirteen months and during that time handled much money belonging 
to his prisoners, at one time having in his box §39,000 of their money. He served 
in this prison until his discharge on June 23, 1865, at Indianapolis. The war 
being over, he returned home and began clerking in a drug store. On December 
25, 1865, he married Miss Elizabeth J. Sherwood, daughter of John and Amy 

( ) Sherwood. Mr. Sherwood was a farmer of Tompkins county, N. 

T. To Mr. and Mrs. Cordrey were born three children: William E., Frank D. 
and R. A. After his marriage Mr. Cordrey was engaged as clerk in different busi- 
ness enterprises in Middlebury, until 1873, when he bought a book and general sta- 



254 PICTORIAL AND BIOOR^WUICAL 

tionaiy store and is at present engaged in this business. He was appointed post- 
master during Hayes" administration in 1879, and served five j-ears. During Har- 
risou's first administration he was again appointed and is still holding that ofiice, 
with credit to himself and to the evident satisfaction of the people. In politics he 
is a stanch Itepublican. Mr. Cordrey is one of the charter members of the O. & M. Fos- 
ter Post, No. 172, G. A. R., Middlebury, and has been adjutant eight years. He and 
Mrs. Cordrey are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and he has held the 
office of steward and recording secretary. Socially he is a member of the Masonic 
Lodge of Middlebury, No. 327. Mr. Cordrey has given his children good educational 
advantages and has reason to be proud of them. His son, William E., graduated 
from the graded school of Middlebury and has been a school teacher, and Frank D. 
is attending the normal school at Ada, Ohio, is making a specialty of civil engineer- 
ing, and is a promising young man. Mr. Cordrey is well known in Middlebury and 
the surrounding county as a man of impeachable honesty and iiprightness, and one 
who has the welfare of the county at heart. As an official he is popular, being polite, 
accommodating, prompt and accurate. For eight years he was secretary of the 
town council of Middlebury and two years township trustee. 

C. H. Clark is the proprietor of one of the most popular and best managed boot 
and shoe emporiums of Elkhart, and has a paying patronage among the elite of the 
city, as he deserves to have, for he not only deals in the best goods procurable but sells 
them at very reasonable rates, and is strictly honorable in every respect in his busi- 
ness transactions. He is a product of Monroe county, Mich., where he was born on 
the oth of June, 1846, a son of George "W. and Harriet L. (Barnaby) Clark, both of 
whom were born in the Empire State, and with the energy which is characteristic of 
the people of that State, emigrated to Michigan at an early day, and in 1860 located 
in Lenawee county, where he became a dry goods merchant. He was a pronounced 
Eepublican, and was held in high esteem in that locality, not only for his correct 
business methods but for his many amiable traits of character. His widow survives 
him. The paternal grandfather, E. Laflet Clark, was one of the framers of the con- 
stitution of Michigan, of which region he became an inhabitant when it was a Terri- 
torv. The ancestry on the mother's side were soldiers in the War of 1812, and 
Charles H. Clark, the subject of this sketch, has in his possession a parchment deed 
which was given his maternal grandfather, for 160 acres of land for services rendered 
in that war. The father was twice married, and six of the seven children born to 
him are now living: Charles H., W. J., Ambrose B., Clara S., Harriet and George. 
Charles H. Clark resided on a farm in Michigan until 1860. during which time he 
learned lessons of industry, perseverance and economy, which were of material bene- 
fit to him when he entered his father's mercantile establishment. He remained with 
him as a clerk until 1863, when he went to Pittsburg, Penn., and took a commercial 
course in a college of that city, after which he taught school for about one year. In 
1864 he went to La Porte, Ind., where he clerked in a dry goods store until 1868, at 
the end of which time he went on the road as a commercial traveler, for C. Buell & 
Co., of Waterville, N. Y., after which he was with Dewey, Eogers & Co., 
of Cleveland, Ohio, for three years. Succeeding this he came to Elkhart, Ind., and 
was with the Elkhart Knitting Company, and three years later entered the employ 
of Field, Thayer & Co., of Boston, Mass., shoe merchants, with whom he 
remained a little over three years. This experience was of inestimable value to him, 
and served to give him a thorough insight into the business. After remaining with 
this house for three years he came to Elkhart and engaged in the shoe husiness as 
manager of the establishment of A. B. Clark & Co., which, owing to his thor- 
ough knowledge of the business and his faculty of winning friends, he has since 
retained to the satisfaction of his employers. Politically he is a thorough and ardent 
Republican, is chairman of the city central committee and vice-chairman of the county 
central committee. He has been a member of the city council for three years, and 
has in various ways manifested his interest in the affairs of his city and section. In 



MEMOIRS OF INVIANA. 257 

1867 be led to the altar Miss Mary E. Keplinger, of Elkhart, by whom he has a 
daughter, Harriet L. Mr. Clark is a member of the I. O. O. F., iu which honorable 
body he is a valued member. Personally Mr. Clark is a very popular gentleman and 
he possesses very social and hospitable instincts, and the result is that he has 
gathered about him a wide circle of friends. 

E. P. WiLLARD. The credit for a large share of the enterprise which helps to 
make Elkhart one of the most thriving and bustling cities of northern Indiana, 
belongs, in a considerable degree, to the worthy gentleman whose name is at the 
head of this sketch. He is a son of John H. and Eliza Willard, of New Hampshire, 
and was born at Alexandria, N. Y., July 22, 1842. When he was but three years 
old his parents moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he attended school until the age of 
thirteen years. They then removed to St. Joseph county, Mich., where he remained 
ou the farm until the begrinniuor of the Civil war between the North and South. He 
was one of the first to enlist in defense of the " stars and stripes ' in the three years 
service, going into Company C, Eleventh Michigan Infantry, and participated in the 
battle of Stone River, Laverne, and was on the raid through Kentucky after Gen. 
Morgan. After leaving the army he became engaged as news agent on the rail- 
roads and succeeded so well that he was appointed superintendent of the first office 
opened in Elkhart by the '' Union News Co." of New York, which position he took 
December 1, 1869, and held until December 1, 1891. He was married to Miss 
Lillian Alvord, of Jonesville, Mich., September 24. 1872, and lays most of his suc- 
cess in life to her kind and devoted attention to all his business affairs, she having 
kept all books for him, and entered most graciously and enthusiastically into what- 
ever interested him, and we venture to say that in all this broad land there can not 
be found a happier home or a more devoted couple. There is probably no new 
enterprise located in Elkhart, or anything of a public nature gotten up in which 
Mr. Willard is not interested. He is a public-spirited man in the broadest sense of 
the word, and above all, his labors are not performed with the expectation of always 
getting a ''plum " for his trouble. Among the various enterprises which he has 
helped along can be meutiond the Elkhart National Bank, of which he is vice-presi- 
dent, and has been a director since its organization. He helped to organize and 
procure a charter for the Elkhart Street Railway Company, and has been one of the 
directors from the beginning, and is its present treasurer. He is one of the owners 
of the "Elkhart Opera House,'' and has each year served as a director, and has been 
the secretary for the past four years. The next enterprise to which he turned his 
attention was to help organize the Elkhart Electric Light Company, both for arc and 
incandescent lighting, and Mr. Willard's home was the first private residence in 
Elkhart lighted by electricity, he having the incandescent lights put throughout his 
house. This company has a capital stock all paid up of $100,000, and Mr. Willard 
is its present treasurer, and in fact, there is hardly a public enterprise in which his 
name is not found. He is a man of money, and assists vigorously any commendable 
enterprise that points to the glory of Elkhart. He possesses a most genial disposi- 
tion, and is called by his friends "the sunshine of life," always ready with a joke or 
a story; he has but recently gone into the real estate and insurance business, 
and can sell you a nice corner lot in Chicago "if you must have it," but banks on 
Elkhart every time. Mr. Willard is a moderate dresser, a good liver, and has a 
handsome home beautifully furnished, and with an elegant wife to preside over all 
we leave him with the assurance to our readers that never has his honor been 
questioned, and that his integrity is above criticism, and unto him in very truth can 
be applied the remark: " Well done thou good and faithful servant." Mr. Willard 
is a member of the Electro-Galvanic Belt & Appliance Company of Elkhart, an 
organization backed by strong testimonials as to the high merits of its products. 
The electric belts of this company are fast superseding all others in existence. 
Their building, offices and factory are the largest extant. As an evidence of their 
enormous sales their records show that in one town of 9,000 inhabitants over 900' 
le 



258 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

belts were sold in one year. The large sales and constantly growing field of opera- 
tions give evidence of immeuae possibilities for the future for this company. At 
this day no one can dispute the beneficial effects of electricity upon the human 
system, and the efficacy of the belts of this company in the treatment of many forma 
of disease has long ago been fully established. 

Henry W. Hixon, a prosperous banker of Middlebury, Ind., is descended from 
the oldest pioneer of Middlebury township, which has the honor to still number 
among its inhabitants the original pioneer settler, Solomon L. Hixou, now a venera- 
ble and respected citizen of eighty-seven years. The latter was a son of John 
Hixon, of German descent, but of old colonial American ancestry, who was born, 
reared and married in New Jersey, his union being with Miss Mary Landis, a 
daughter of Henry Landis, of German descent, who was the father of twenty-four 
children by two wives. Soon after his marriage Mr. Hixon moved to Union county, 
Penn., and purchased 200 acres of land, and on this well conducted farm he passed 
the remainder of his days, and died when his son, Solomon L. Hixon, was twenty- 
one years of age. His wife reached the advanced age of one hundred and two 
years. David Hixon, the brother of John, was a Revolutionary soldier, becoming 
a member of the patriot army at the age of sixteen years, and served under the 
celebrated Gen. Washington "throughout the entire war, having been present at 
the battle of Princeton, N. J., as well as taking part in a number of other severe 
entragements. Like many other patriots, he did not cease his allegiance to the 
colonial cause until Great Britain acknowledged the independence of the American 
colonies. Solomon L. Hixon was born on his father's farm in Union county, Penn., 
near the Susquehanna River, December 13, 1805, where he received the common- 
school education which his day afforded, and acquired a knowledge of farm life. 
After the death of his father, on the 11th of September, 1829, he left the old home- 
stead and proceeded to Portage, now Summit county, Ohio, making this journey by 
means of the old-fashioned stage coach, which was then the usual mode of convey- 
ance, and on foot, by which latter means he covered no inconsiderable portion of the 
journey. He purchased 100 acres of land near what is now A kr on, Ohio, and 
which afterward proved to be a very valuable property, a vein of coal seven feet 
thick having been discovered on it, so that years after it had passed from Mr. 
Hixon's hands, it sold for $500,000. In Ohio Mr. Hixon followed the trade of a 
carpenter. In 1827 he married Miss Nancy Ann Remile, daughter of Stephen W. 
and Nancy A. (Curtis) Remile, the former of whom was of English descent, a native 
of Vermont, and was one of the early pioneers of what is now Summit county, Ohio, 
settling near Akron. In 1833 he entered land where Toledo, Ohio, now stands and 
was also one of the first settlers of Middlebury township, Elkhart Co., Ind., and 
gave it its name from his native town in Vermont. He died in the fall of 1834. In 
1833 Solomon L. Hixon, hearing glowing accounts of the St. Joseph county of 
Indiana, made a prospecting tour through the State, and in 1834 located land on 
Section 10, on which he remained one year. He then moved South and took 
up his residence in a log cabin, on 200 acres of land which he had purchased, and 
which was slightly improved. On this place he resided for many years, and by 
industry and hard labor accumulated property. He met with a severe accident in 
1842, by the falling of a tree, which deprived him of his right leg. On April 1, 
1866, he came to Middlebury, where he has since made his home. He was one of 
the first permanent settlers of the township. He was the father of five children 
by his first wife, two of whom are now living: Henry, who was born on March 22, 
1833, and Livonia, deceased wife of Charles S. Martin, of Middlebury. Those 
deceased are: Elizabeth, Stephen and Charles R. Both Mr. and Mrs. Hixon were 
members of the Baptist Church, and the latter shared with her husband the trials 
incident to pioneer life, and paid the last debt of nature in 1864, aged forty-nine 
years. Mr. Hixon is a man of remarkable constitution, and despite serious acci- 
dents which have made him lame for many years, he has not seen a sick day since 



MEMOIRS OP IXDIANA. 259 

186-1. He is an excellent example of the old-time pioneer settler; honest, upright 
and straightforward, and willing to make his way in the world by his own unaided 
efforts, be did not hesitate to bravely enter the wilderness and assist in subduing 
nature and to make possible the pleasant homes of to day. To such men as he the 
people of the present are indebted for the improvements, well cultivated farms and 
thriving villages which they now enjoy. Mr. Hixon has lived over the entire epoch 
of the settlement of the great West, for when he was a boy the ax of the settler had 
scarcely been heard west of Pennsylvania, and to-day the most remote and almost 
inaccessible regions of his country have prosperous communities. Mr. Hixon, at the 
patriarchal age of eighty-seven, retains his mental faculties to a remarkable degree. 
On December '24, 1866, he took for bis second wife Mrs. Susan K. Bailey, of Michi- 
gan, who is still living. Her parents were Isaac and Lucy (Dickennau) Pardee, both 
of whom were born in New Haven, Conn. . and were pioneer settlers of Knox 
county, Ohio, but in 1849 removed to Berrien county, Mich., where the father soon 
after died. He was of French descent, although an American born, his father hav- 
ing been born in France. Henry W. Hixon, son of Solomon L. Hixon, is one of 
those who, when bis country needed his services, did not hesitate to risk his life as a 
soldier for the preservation of the Union. He was born in Portage county, Ohio, 
and was brought by his parents to Indiana when an infant, of which section he has 
been a resident since April 4, 1834. He received a common-school education, and 
like many of the practical business men of to-day, he was reared a farmer, which 
occupation he followed until be was over thirty years of age. On August 16, 1862, 
in the stalwart prime of his manhood, be enlisted at Middlebury in the Twenty-lirst 
Indiana Battery, of which W. W. Andrews was captain, and was soon after detailed 
for service on the gunboat, "Orient," plying ou the Cumberland River, Lieut. Pat- 
ton being commander of this vessel. This service was principally against the guer- 
rillas who infested Tennessee and were a great injury to the Union army. Mr. Hixon 
was in many skirmishes with these desperate and lawless characters, and many of 
the scenes and incidents connected with this exciting warfare are impressed upon 
his mind with a vividness which is still unimpaired, and he possesses a fund of 
interesting reminiscences which he relates in the off-hand manner of the old soldier. 
One one occasion, while the "Orient" was passing under a rocky precipice, at least 
150 feet high, the guerrillas poured a galling tire upon her decks from their mus- 
kets. A Ijrave but foolhardy Confederate officer exposed himself upon a high rock 
and lustily cheered his men to encourage them to capture the boat. He was shot 
through the heart by one of the Union sharpshooters and sprang from the precipice 
at least ten feet into midair and fell heavily through the top of a cedar growing 
in a crevice of a rock into the water 150 feet below. His face and figure were im- 
printed on the mind of Mr. Hixon with the distinctness of a photograph, and can 
plainly be recalled to this day. In one of their skirmishes with the rebels, on 
March 25, 1863, Mr. Hixon was in charge of two guns, and after the first discharge, 
while in the act of reloading one of the pieces, it prematurely discharged and 
shot away Mr. Hixon' s right arm. The gun was badly rusted and honey-combed 
in the breach, so that kernels of rice could have been dropped into it and sparks 
of fire had thus been retained. Gen. Crook, then commander of the entire left of 
Eosecrans' army, then at Carthage, Tenn., afterward examined the gun and told 
Mr. Hixon that the accident was entirely the result of the defective gun and that 
it should long before have been condemned, for such carelessness was the cause 
of maiming many a good officer. After receiving this wound, Mr. Hixon refused to 
go to the hospital, but secured a private room at Carthage, Tenn., of a lady who was 
a bitter Confederate and Southern sympathizer, but who kindly cared for him while 
recovering. He remained at that place until May 18, 1863, then went to the hos- 
pital at Gallatin, Tenn., and here was honorably discharged on account of his wounds, 
June 4, 1863, and returned home, where be aiTived June 7, 1863. His last act for 
the Government before leaving the service, was assisting in the arrest of a notorious 



260 PICTORIAL A^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

and desperate Confederate spy, named "Wood. Mr. Hison had rendered a service to 
a Union spy, called "Minnesota Jack," who was suffering from extreme exhaustion, 
after a severe and long continued tight with the Confederate scouts and guerrillas 
across the Cumberland Eiver, by allowing him to lie down on his bed, after which 
this man handed Mr. Hixon his revolver and told him he wanted him to assist him 
in the capture and arrest of a Confederate spy who was then seated in a neigh- 
boring saloon, and to precede him thither. Mr. Hixon at once acquiesced and they 
immediately proceeded thither. With cocked revolver, Mr. Hixon opened the door 
and leveling his weapon at the spy, ordered him to throw up his hands. The spy, 
taken by surprise, did so, when the Union spy, exclaiming: " Shoot him if he moves 
his hands!" promptly shackeled him, the Confederate meanwhile remarking: " Billy, 
you've got me this time." Four revolvers were found on his person and he was 
known to be one of the most resolute and fearless spies of the Confederacy. He met 
the usual fate of spies and four days later was shot. After his return home, Mr. 
Hixon resumed farming for one year and then began buying and selling grain 
and wool in Middlebury, and there, on July 15, I860, he was married to Miss 
Nettie Curtiss, a daughter of Charles and Eunice (Creager) Curtiss, the father being 
a native of Vermont. To Mr. Hixon's union three children have been born: Eliza- 
beth A., born February 11, 1867; Fred, born March 3, 1870, and Edna, born March 
13, 1873. Elizabeth married Dr. L. H. Couley, of Knox county, Ohio, and has 
three children. Fred has been well educated in the graded school of Middlebury, 
is a good business young man and is associated with his father in the banking 
business, to which the latter turned his attention on October 21, 1890. Mr. Hixon 
is a member of the G. A. R., O. & M. Foster Post, No. 172, and now fills the office 
of commander. He belongs to the civic society of the K. of P. and politically is 
a stanch Republican. He commands the unbounded respect of the community at 
large and has held the office of justice of the peace continuously for twenty two 
years. As a soldier he was prompt and reliable, and as a man of business, he is 
considered intelligent, shrewd and strictly honorable. His name for many 
years has been synonymous for integrity and good judgment, and has proven him- 
self one of the most capable and practical of banking men, and his institution 
holds the confidence of the entire public. His deposits are heavy and his capital 
large. 

W. B. Vandeelip. Twenty-five years ago a piano was a luxury enjoyed only by 
a few wealthy families, and the church choirs and parlors that could boast of an 
organ were not many. Now thousands of houses and choirs resound with the rich 
tones of the best instruments, and the change marks a revolution in musical educa- 
tion. In reviewing the cause of this revolution we are compelled to recognize the 
valuable influence of the trade in pianos and their precursors, cabinet organs, and 
the valuable work of Mr. W. B. Vanderlip, dealer in musical instruments at 
Elkhart, in elevating and systematizing the sale of all instruments. The instru- 
ments he has sold have been instructors, musical missionaries, winning their way 
into the hearts of the people, and inciting to such better appreciation of the noble 
art that they became teachers of all classes, and much of the results before us is the 
high standard of musical culture established in the city and vicinity, and the 
enviable reputation of Elkhart in the musical circles of the country is due to the 
honorable and consistent efforts of Mr. Vanderlip. This gentleman has been a 
resident of the city for thirty-five years, and diiring that time his career as a busi- 
ness man and citizen has been above reproach. He built the first business house on 
the south end of Main street, which was then in the country, and afterward had 
five more business houses erected adjoining him. He engaged so actively in business 
that the people soon invested around him, and it was not long before a thriving 
town had started up. Mr. Vanderlip was born in Weatherfield Springs, Wyoming 
Co., N. Y., December 13, 1838, and his parents, George R. and Mary W. (Wiley) 
Vanderlip, were natives of Connecticut and Vermont, respectively. The ancestors 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 361 

were of German and Scotch descent. The mother was a first cousin of General 
Scofield and died in California in 1891, in her eighty-sixth year. The grandparents 
were well off financially. The maternal grandparents had one son, Perkins Wiley, 
who sat iu the Vermont Legislature for thirteen years. George W. Vanderlip, father 
of subject, was a wool and cloth manufacturer. In 1847 he came West, making the 
journey through from Detroit iu wagons, and settled in Mishawaka, St. Joseph Co., 
Ind., where he secured a position as foreman of Henry Johnson's woolen mills. 
He subsequently superintended John Harper's mills in South Bend, Ind., and was 
thus engaged for a number of years. Mr. Vanderlip contracted a cold and died 
with typhoid fever in the year 1852. To his marriage were born six children, five 
sous and one daughter, and his life was one of hardship and privation in providing 
for his family and keeping the wolf from the door. He received as compensation 
for his services $1.50 a day, and was obliged to take three-fourths of that in goods 
from the store of his employer. All his children are living, viz. :0. W., in Elkhart; 
George N. , in California; John T. , of San Francisco, Cal. ; W. B., Elkhart; Frank, 
in California, and Mary, also of the Golden State. The original of this notice was but 
nine years of age when he came with his parents to St. Joseph county, Ind. , and as 
he still wore aprons, the boys made fun of him and he took them off. His scholastic 
training was received in the public schools, such as they afforded in that day, and 
when sixteen years of age he was set to work in the woolen mills of South Bend. 
He operated two custom cording machines and received as compensation |8 
per month and board. The first dress he bought for his mother he paid 10 
cents per yard for, and the same goods can now be purchased for 4 cents per 
yard. He can now get $30 per month for making the same goods and yet 
it was then good old free-trade times. After working in the mill for one year, 
Mr. Vanderlip was bound out to a man in Mishawaka to learn the carriage-making 
trade, receiving $40 for his first year's service. The following year he received $60, 
and the third year ISO. After working nine months the firm broke up and he 
mounted a wagon and returned to his home. Following this he hired out to L. W. 
Pickering for $18 per month and board, doing all kinds of ornamental painting, and 
continued with him until cold weather, when he entered the school-room where he 
remained that winter. The following spring he bought out a $400 stock and went 
to work for himself. He was engaged very actively as a painter and decorator and 
followed this successfully for twenty-three years, and his last work in that line was 
to fresco the Goshen Courthouse, which is still there as good as new. About 
1880 Mr. Vanderlip engaged iu his present business and has succeeded beyond his 
most sanguine expectations in this occupation. He was the first man to engage in 
the business in Elkhart to exclusively handle musical instruments, and has Stein- 
way, Hardidad, A. B. Chase, Sterling and Webster pianos. Story & Clark, Sterling, 
Chicago Cottage, Hilstrom organs, and also handles all small instruments. He was 
one of the projectors of the Backlen opera house and was its first secretary, serv- 
ing in that capacity for two years. He decorated the building and is still a stock- 
holder. Mr. Vanderlip is also a stockholder in the Driving Park and is half owner of 
a cattle ranch in Arizona, at Flag Staff. He and his partner have about 1,500 
head of cattle. Our subject is also the owner of several business blocks and is one 
of the wealthy, substantial men of the place, all the result of his own industry and 
good management. He owns a number of dwelling houses in the city and an 
elegant home at the corner of Second and Harrison streets. Mr. Vanderlip may veiy 
truly be termed a self-made man, for he came to Elkhart without a dollar, and all 
he has obtained in the way of this world's goods, has been the result of industry 
and economy. He was married in 1859 to Miss Belle Hammond, and the fruits of 
this union were four children, as follows: Lorena, Frank, Leona and W. B., Jr. 
Mr. Vanderlip has shown his appreciation of secret organizations by becoming a 
member of the Masonic fraternity, and has reached the degree of Knight Templar. 
He was the first chancellor commander. He and wife are members of the Episcopal 



362 PICTOKIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Church and are worthy and much esteemed citizens of the town in which they 
reside. They take an active interest in all enterprises for the good of the county, 
and are well worthy the respect of all. 

John H. Smith is an intelligent and enterprising gentleman who from boyhood 
has been interested in agricultural pursuits. He is a thorough master of his busi- 
ness, has spent many years of his life in developing the country and is in comfort- 
able circumstances. He was born in Sussex county, Del., September 29, 1809, a 
son of Cannon and Charlotte (Handy) Smith, who were also born in Delaware. 
Cannon Smith was reared in his native State and during his younger days spent a 
portion of his time on the ocean. At the time of his marriage he engaged in farm- 
ing and this occupation received his attention the balance of his life. His wife was 
a daughter of John and Elizabeth Handy, who were born and spent their lives in 
Delaware. In the spring of 1828 Cannon Smith and family emigrated west, stop- 
ping a short time in Delaware, Ohio, where a brother resided at that time, but in 
the fall went to Cass county, Mich., and the winter of 1828-9 was spent on the 
northern border of Beardsley's Prairie in a log cabin which Mr. Smith erected. In 
the following June land in that vicinity came into market and Mr. Smith entered 
160 acres in the southwest part of Beardsley's Prairie. The winter of 1829-30 was 
spent in the log cabin in which they had resided the previous winter, near which 
Mr. Smith had rented some land. In the fall of 1829 he began the erection of a 
house on his own land, which was completed the following spring and the family at 
once moved into it. It was a frame structure and Mr. Smith himself did the hewing 
and sawing of the materials, and while the lumber was not finished with modern 
machinery, and was somewhat rough compared with that of the present day, the 
building was a substantial, comfortable structure and was the first building of the 
kind erected in that section, and one of the very best. The land which he 
owned was in its native state, and before it could be developed the family had to 
undergo many privations and hardships. Mr. Smith was successful in bis under- 
takings and before his death, which occurred on the old homestead in August, 1844, 
he had accumulated over 1,000 acres of land. He was a great worker and it was 
due to this, more than to anything else, that his death occurred when it did. His 
wife survived him until the spring of 1869. They were the parents of ten children: 
John H., Wesley, Cannon, Lydia and Emeline being the only ones now living. 
John H. Smith was about thirty years of age when his parents settled in Cass 
county, Mich., but prior to that time he had received a common-school education in 
his native State and was brought up by his father to be industrious, economical and 
honest. At the age of twenty-three years he bought a farm of his own in Cass 
county, Mich., on which he lived a few years, then diposed of it to a good advantage 
and purchased 160 acres on the State line in Cass county, and joining the farm on 
which he now resides. It was in January, 1842, that he settled on his present farm, 
which now consists of 253 acres, 200 of which are under cultivation. In June, 
1832, he volunteered his services to fight the Indians under Gen. Williams, for which 
purpose he marched as far as Chicago. He was out about one month but did not 
take part in any engagements. Chicago at that time consisted of a few houses and 
a great deal of marsh land. Mr. Smith was married January 3, 1833. nearAdams- 
ville, Mich., to Clarissa Beardsley, born near Columbus, Ohio, October 14, 1814, 
and daughter of Darius and Dorothea (Cone) Beardsley, the former a native of 
Connecticut, and the latter of New York. Mr. Beardsley was a pioneer of Cass 
county, Mich, for there he settled in January, 1832, having been a resident of 
Butler county, Ohio, for thirteen years previous. He was frozen to death in the 
winter of 1832-3 on his way home from Edwardsburg, being found in the snow 
three days after, only a short distance from his home. His widow survived him 
several years. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith thirteen children have been born, the follow- 
ing of whom are living: Edward, Henry, Walter, Cannon, Angeline A. and 
Ann H. Those deceased are: Catherine, Charlotte, John, Harriet, Havilah and 



JfE.VOIJlS OF INDrAyA. 263 

one that died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church for many years, but at present are not connected as members of 
any society. Mr. Smith has always voted the Republican ticket, and has ever inter- 
ested himself in the affairs of his section and is a wide-awake and public-spirited 
man. 

Oeamel O. Peescott. One of the most ancient and honorable of American 
families of old Colonial times were the Prescotts, whose genealogical history was 
written by the venerable Dr. William Prescott, of Concord, N. H. , and discloses 
the characteristics of oue of the most remarkable families of this country. Springing 
directly from English stock, they were pioneers in the dreary forests of New Eng- 
land, the founders of new settlements and towns, fought in the numerous Indian 
wars of early times, freemen of the ancient boroughs, and church and town 
officials. At a later period thej' were among the most fearless advocates for 
liberty, and numbered many officers and soldiers in the struggle for American 
Independence, among whom was Col. William Prescott, who commanded the 
American forces at the battle of Bunker Hill. Since the Revolution they have 
been prominent soldiers in the War of 1812, the Mexican war, and the great 
Civil war of this country. The Prescotts sent nearly two hundred and fifty of 
their gallant sons to do battle for the Union, many of whom held important 
official positions. In science, literature and art the name is highly honored, and 
William H. Prescott, the distinguished American historian, was a grandson of the 
hero of Bunker Hill, liut needs no eulogy in this volume. Suffice it to say that 
they are historical monuments clothed in the ])urest English and the most graceful 
figures of speech. The family has been noted for generations, not only for the 
distinguished ability of some of its sons, but for the sturdy worth and sterling 
characteristics which go to make up our best citizens and law-abiding and indus- 
trious men. 

The name Prescott is of Saxon origin, and is formed by the contraction of two 
Saxon words, priest and cottage, therefore signifying priest- cottage, or priest's 
house. The name has long been known in England, and was given to a street 
in the ancient city of London. Prescott is also the name of a market town in 
Lancaster county, England, which was the ancient seat of the Prescott family. 
Orders of knighthood were conferred upon some branches of the family, and they 
were among the nobility of that country. A metallic coat of mail and armor, 
such as were worn by ancient knights, were brought to this country by the emigrant, 
John Pre.scott. There is also preserved by the descendants in this countrj' a 
family coat of arms, which was conferred upon one of the remote ancestors for his 
bravery, courage and successful enterprise as a man and a military officer. This 
coat of arms had an ancient origin, and was owned both by the Prescotts, of Theo- 
bald's Park, Hartfordshire, Barts. ; and by those ancient families of Lancashire 
and Yorkshire. The first mention of the name of Prescott is in "Thomas Rymer's 
Foldera," wherein a conformation of a grant made coucerniDg aqueducts of the 
city of London by H. de Patershall, treasurer to the king, is addressed to Walter 
Prescott, vice chancellor, and others (named). 

The direct lineage of the Prescotts who came to America is traced back to the 
time of Queen Elizabeth. James Prescott, who was descended from the ancient 
family of Prescott, England, was a gentleman of Standish, Lancashire. He was 
required, by an order of Queen Elizabeth, dated August, 1564, to keep in readiness, 
horsemen and arms. He married a daughter of Roger Standish, of Standish, 
England, and sister to Ralph Standish. From this marriage descended both John 
Prescott, who landed at Bo.ston in 1640, and James Prescott, who settled in Hamp- 
ton, N. H. , in 166u. John Prescott sold his lands in Shevington, parish of 
Standish, in Lancashire, to Richard Prescott, of Wigan, and removed into Yorkshire, 
and I'esided for some time in Lowerby, in the parish of Halifax, where several of 
his children were born. From conscientious motives and to avoid persecution, he 



264 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

left his native land of Yorkshire to seek an asylum in the wilderness of America. 
He first landed at Barbadoes iu 1638. where be became an owner of lands, but in 
1640 be came to New England, and after landing at Boston, he almost immediately 
settled at "Watertowu, where he had large grants of laud allotted him. In 1643 he 
associated himself with Thomas King and others, for the purpose of purchasing of 
Sholan, the Indian Sachem of the Nashaway tribe of Indians, a tract of land for 
the settlement which was to be ten miles in length and eight in breadth. This 
purchase being completed, John Prescott, who was a stalwart blacksmith, pro- 
ceeded to vigorously pursue the interests of the plantation till his exertions were 
crowned with success. He was the first settler of Nashaway, now Lancaster, Mass., 
and was in every respect a gentleman and an influential member of the original 
Puritan stock of New England. Like most of the early emigrants of that section, 
he left his native home to escape the relentless persecutions with which the Puritans 
and Nonconformists were harassed. He was a man of marked character, devoting 
his time to mechanical and agricultural pursuits. At a very early day he became 
a leading spirit and a prominent and influential man. as very many of his descend- 
ants have Iseen iu each and every subsequent generation. 

He was a man of strict integrity, great energy and perseverance, and took an 
active part in all measures calculated to improve and enhance the interests of the 
town of Lancaster, Mass. He took the oath of fidelity in 1652, and was admitted 
a freeman in 1669. By occupation he was not only an agriculturist, but was also a 
blacksmith and millwright. In November, 1653, he received a grant of land from 
the Indians on condition that he would build a "corn mill," which he did, at the 
same time erecting a saw-mill. John Prescott and family were conspicuously 
identified in the defense of Lancaster against the Indians. He was a strong, athletic 
man of stern countenance, and when he had any difficulty with the Indians would 
clothe himself with his coat-of-mail. helmet, cuirass and gorget, which gave him a 
fierce and formidable appearance, and greatly astonished the Indians when they 
found that they could make no impression upon him with their tomahawks. This 
John Prescott was the ancestor of a distinguished branch of the Prescott family in 
America, and a second cousin of James Prescott, the original American ancestor of 
the subject of this sketch. Among the distinguished descendants of John Prescott, 
was Col. William Prescott, the commander of the American forces at the battle of 
Bunker Hill, also the eminent historian, William H. Prescott. 

James Prescott, the original emigrant to America, the remote ancestor of this 
branch of the family, and the second cousin of John Prescott, of Lancashire, 
came from Dryby, in the county of Lincolnshire, England, in 1665, and 
settled in Hampton, N. H., which then, and for some time after, was comprised 
within the old county of Norfolk, Mass. Mr. Prescott opened a farm (on which 
he resided until he moved to Kingston, in 1725), in that part of Hampton which, 
since 1712 has constituted the town of Hampton Falls. This town is situated 
some one and a half, or two miles, north of Hampton Falls Academy, on the high 
road to Exeter, of late years owned and occupied by the late Wells Healy, Esq., 
and is a fine desirable farm. 

Mr. Prescott was a member of the Congregational Church, as he was admitted 
a freeman iu 1678, none but members of the church being eligible to that important 
and earnestly sought position. He was transferred to the church at Hampton Falls 
soon after its incorporation as a town in 1712, and thence he was transferred to the 
church at Kingston, on September 29, 1725. In 1768 he married Mary, daughter 
of Nathaniel and Grace Boulter, her birth occurring at Exeter, May 16, 1645. The 
Boulters were of English origin. James Prescott was a man of integrity and 
influence, possessing good sense, a sound and discriminating mind, and one whose 
judgment was much sought for, and in whose opinion the people placed the utmost 
confidence and reliance. In 1692 James Prescott is mentioned as a creditor of His 
Majesty's province. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 265 

In 1694 the town of Kingstou whs granted, by Lieut. Gov. Usher, to James 
Prescott, Ebeneezer Webster and others, who became extensive land holders and 
influential proprietors. December 19, 1700, James Prescott was moderator of the 
meeting of the proprietors of Kingston, at which meeting James Prescott and 
Ebeneezer Webster were chosen a committee to run the line between Kingston and 
Hampton, in conjunction with a like committee from the latter town. At the 
same meeting it was voted to grant to James Prescott, Thomas Philbrick and 
Jonathan Sanborn, each 200 acres of land in the westerly part of the town of 
Kingston. On July 18, 1701, James Prescott was again chosen moderator of the 
proprietors' meeting, when the house, or near meadow was granted to him. 
Besides the above, the proprietors of Kingston voted him tracts of land in 1705, 
1710, 1715, 1719, 1720 and in 1721. In 1708 the Commons of Hampton voted to 
give to James Prescott ten acres of land where his house then stood, John Sanborn 
dissenting. On April 10, 1711, they voted him four acres of land for £2. 

James Prescott was a prominent public man, and his name appears signed to 
numerous petitions. He removed from Hampton Falls to Kingston in 1725, and 
here he died November 25, 1728, at about eighty-tive years of age. The record 
of his death on the books at Kingston, reads thus: "James Prescott, an aged 
father, died." His wife Mary, died atKingston, October 4, 1735, aged over seventy- 
eight years. 

James Prescott, Jr. , son of the above and the sixth generation from the subject 
of this sketch, was born September 1, 1671, and was married March 1, 1695, to 
Maria Marston, daughter of William Marston. Jr. and Rebecca Page, daughter of 
Robert and Lucv Page, who were among the first settlers of Hampton. She was 
born May 16, 1672, and both became church members October 10, 1697. After the 
death of his wife Maria, Mr. Prescott was married June 17, 1746, to Widow Abigail 
Sanborn, the daughter of Edward Gore, one of the first settlers of Hampton. 
Prior to this marriage she had been married twice, first in 1690, to Deacon Phile- 
mon Dalton, and after his death to Deacon Benjamin Sanborn, in 1724, whose third 
wife she was. James Prescott, Jr., was a farmer, and resided near his father on 
the opposite side of the road leading from Hampton Falls to Exeter. He was styled 
sergeant, for by the Hampton records he was made one of the constables in 1707. 
He was at Port Royal six months in 1701. and was a deacon in his church. 

Samuel Prescott, his son, was born March 14. 1697. and December 17, 1777, 
married Mary, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Gore) Sanborn, the former a son 
of John Sanborn, Sr., and the latter the daughter of Edward Gore, Sr. Mary 
Prescott was born July 28, 1697, and July 13, 1740, she and her husband became 
members of the church. In 1746 Mr. Prescott, with Hon. Meshach Weare, was 
appointed an appraiser of the estate of Capt. Jonathan Prescott, who was in the 
expedition under Sir William Pepperell against Louisburg on the Island of Cape 
Breton, the stronghold of the French in America, when that fortres-s was captured, 
and in Louisburg died of typhus fever in January, 1746. Samuel and his wife 
became the parents of five sons. He served several years as a selectman, town clerk 
and in other capacities, and resided, as a farmer, at Hampton Falls, where he died 
of fever June 12, 1759, at the age of sixty-two years and three months. At one 
time he acted as one of a scouting party along the frontier. His will was approved 
June 26, 1759. 

Jeremiah Prescott, his son, was born September 29, 1710, baptized November 
22, 1724, and was first married January 15, 1741, to Mary Hayes. He settled 
as a farmer at Epping, and was extensively known as Sergeant Prescott. In 
April. 1755, he composed one of the company commanded by Capt. Nathaniel 
Folsom, of Exeter, and in the regiment commanded by Capt. Joseph Blanchard, 
of Dunstable (now Nashua, N. H. ), which was sent on an expedition against the 
French forts Du Que.sne, Niagara and West Point. In May, 1756, he again engaged 
in an expedition against Crown Point in the company commanded by Capt. Nathaniel 



286 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Doe and in the regiment commanded by Col. Nathaniel Meseive. He signed the 
Association Test in 1776. After the death of his first wife he was married February 
10, 1780, to jNIarj', the widow of Lemuel Towle, and a daughter of Gideon Shaw. 

William Prescott, son of Samuel, was born about 1746, and was married to 
Mary Dearborn, daughter of Henry and Margaret (Sherburne) Dearborn, of North 
Hampton, N. H., where she was born between 1740 and 1750. William Prescott 
settled as a farmer in Vershire, Vt., and in 1815 died at the age of sixty-nine years. 
He was the father of three sons and three daughters: Mary, Sarah, Elisha, Mercy, 
Jeremiah and Sherburne. Mr. Prescott was a soldier in the Revolution, and was a 
substantial farmer and a highly respected citizen. 

His son Jeremiah was born August 16, 1781, and received the limited education 
of his day, the principal part of his education being self acquired. He learned to 
write a good hand, also to successfully keep accounts and became a well- informed 
man. He was but seven years of age when he went with his father from Sanborn- 
ton, N. H., to Vershire, Vt., where he grew to manhood. He assisted his father to 
clear up his farm, and in Vershire was married to Betsy Pomeroy, whose parents 
were Elisha and Sarah (Stratton) Pomeroy. After his marriage Jeremiah 
Prescott settled in Vershire, where he bought a grist-mill, which he operated for 
many years in connection with farming. He was a very zealous member of the 
Congregational Church, and lived to the age of fifty-three years, dying in 1834. 
Like his ancestors, he was a man of honorable and upright character, whose word 
was as good as his bond. His union resulted in the birth of seven children: 
Elmina, born March 2, 1809, and died February 7. 1823; Lewis, born Octolier 28, 
1811, was married March 15. 1842, to Lucinda Derby, who was born October 3, 
1818, and resided in Vershire, Vt., until his death in 1869, at the age of tiftyeight 
years; Elisha P., born June 7, 1814, married July 9 1839, Mary Davis, who was 
born November 9, 1812, and resided at West Fairlee, Vt. ; Lyman, born January 
31, 1817, married March 27, 1842, Mary Jewett, and resides in AVaterbury, Vt. ; 
Rev. Chester M. , born June 19, 1821, married Lucy Baldwin, in March, 1844, who 
was born July 25, 1821, now resides in Lake View, Penn., and is a minister of the 
Free Will Baptist Church; Oramel O. ; and Asaph S. , a resident of Middlebury, Ind. 
Elisha H. Pomeroy, the maternal grandfather of these children, was a carpenter 
and a substantial farmer of A'ershire, Vt.. and lived to the patriarchal age of nintey 
years, dying in 1855. He was the father of nine children: Betsy, Sophia, Phila, 
Anna, Asaph, Stratton, Lydia, Sarah and Electa. 

Oramel Prescott, son of Jeremiah, is of the twelfth generation from James 
Prescott, of England, of Queen Elizabeth's time. He was born in Vershire, Vt., 
on his father's farm, January 12, 1824, received a good common-school education, 
and attended the old academies of his native State, which were excellent institutions 
for obtaining a good practical education. He learned the trade of a jeweler and 
watchmaker, and at the age of nineteen began traveling in the line of his business, 
and for a period of ten years traveled throughout the Eastern and Western States. 
In 1847, while yet a single man, he visited Middlebury, Ind., where he spent one 
winter, after which he made trips throughout Illinois, Wisconsin and Missouri. In 
1849 he went to Vermont, and in 1851 returned and settled at Middlebury on land 
which he had purchased in 1849, and which he still owns. During his travels, by 
frugality and industry, he saved enough money to give him a start in life, and in 
1851 he engaged in the jewelry and watchmaker's business in Middlebury, which he 
continued until 1857, when be and a brother, Asaph S., formed a partnership in 
the general hardware business, under the firm name of O. O. & A. S. Prescott, 
which business prospered, and in 1880 they retired from the active duties of life, 
having become widely known as honorable business men. Mr. Prescott is a man 
of independent views, and although for many years in sympathy with the Republican 
party, he has lately become a Prohibitionist, for he realizes the wickedness of the 
whisky traffic. In 1892 he was candidate in the Prohibition party for senator, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 267 

receiving 332 votes in bis own county. In 1851 Mr. Prescott married Eliza A. 
Bickford, daughter of John and Al)igail (Martin) Bickford, the former of whom 
was of English descent, a member of an old colonial family. He was a farmer, a 
soldier in the War of 1812, and in 1852 became a settler of Middlebury, Ind. He 
and his wife were the parents of five children: Laura, Eliza, Levinia, Flavella and 
Norris. Mrs. Prescott died November 8, 1888, having borne her husband six 
children, one living, Leona. an intelligent and refined young lady. Mr. Prescott's 
second marriage was to Mrs. Jane Abel, a daughter of Asa S. Carr, who was of 
English descent, born November 23, 1799, in New York, in which State he was 
married to Sarah Osterhout, of Pennsylvania Dutch stock, their union resulting in 
the birth of eight children, four of whom lived to grow up: Rice W., who died 
when eighteen years of age; Julius, Jane, and Mariah. Mr. Carr was for many 
years a farmer of Tompkins county, N. Y. , but he finally moved to Orleans county, 
N. Y. , and about 1849 came to Middlebury. Ind., where he erected and operated a 
carding-mill until his death, September 9, 1847, having for many years prior to that 
time been a member of the Baptist Church, of which his wife, who died October 9, 
1858, was also a member. Mrs. Prescott was born in Tompkins county. N. Y., 
October 6, 1828, and when a young lady of seventeen came with her parents to 
Middlebury, and here has since resided, being an earnest member of the Baptist 
Church. William Abel, a farmer and carpenter, who was born in New York, De- 
cember 15, 1810, and was among the lirst settlers of Middlebury, Ind., was her first 
cousin. He was the father of one child who died at the age of ten years, and at the 
age of seventy-one years he, himself, was called from life. Mr. Prescott has been 
an honored citizen of Middlebury for many years, and was township trustee and 
clerk before the town of Middlebury was organized, and has since been trustee of 
the town. He has always been a friend of education, has taken an active interest in 
the good of the schools of his section, and as a financier has prospered. He has 
300 acres of land, an elegant residence in Middlebury, and is otherwise well 
supplied with worldly goods. He is a well-informed man of broad and liberal 
views, and is an intelligent and extensive reader. In every respect he has been an 
honor to himself and to his illustrious ancestry. 

C. W. Gbeen, treasurer of the Old People's Mutual Benefit Society of Elkhart, 
Ind. The pursuits of life are as varied as are the tastes and capacities of men, and 
it is an interesting and useful study to observe the degrees of their assimilation. 
A narrative of success in life affords a lesson from which others can profit. In Lake 
county. 111., there was born in 1844 a son to Isaiah and Mary (Gage) Green, and 
there he grew up, a sturdj' youth, and remained until seventeen years of age. His 
father and mother were born in New Hampshire and Vermont, respectively, their 
progenitors having participated in the early wars of this country with Great Britain. 
In 1832 Isaiah Green removed to Illinois and located in what is now Lake county, 
from which section he was compelled to go to Chicago to mill, drive a four-horse 
team, and would then often get stuck in the mud. In 1861 he removed to Elkhart, 
in which city he was called from life in December 1864, his widow still surviving 
him in her eighty-ninth year. She is still in the enjoyment of fair health, is quite 
active, and can get around quite well without assistance. She bore her husband 
three sons and two daughters, of whom one son and one daughter are living: Mrs. 
J. W. Ellis, and C. W., the subject of this biography. The early education of the 
latter was received in the district schools near his home, and he assisted his father 
on the farm in Illinois until their removal to Elkhart in 1861. In February, 1862, 
he ran away from home and enlisted in the Forty-fourth Indiana Infantry, the fort- 
unes of which he followed until the war closed by the surrender of Gen. Lee. He 
was captured at the battle of Chickamauga, and for sis long months was confined 
in Libby Prison, after which he was taken to Macon, Ga.. thence to Charleston, 
where he and his fellow prisoners were under fire for about six weeks. He was next 
removed to Columbus, then to Goldsboro. N. C. , at which place he was paroled 



268 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

after seventeen months of prison life. The hardships he suffered during this time 
can not be told, and the terrible scenes he witnessed will ever remain a blot upon 
the South. After being paroled he went to Camp Chase, thence to Chattanooga, 
Teun., where he reported to his regiment and was mustered out of the service. He 
was in the engagements at Shiloh. Stone River and Chickamauga, besides a number 
of other pitched battles, but of less note than those mentioned. He returned to 
Elkhart and engaged in the grocery business, continuing for eighteen months, when 
he sold out and entered the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Rail- 
road Company, with which he was connected for about twenty-two years. He spent 
live years as ticket agent at Elkhart, and seventeen years as freight agent, and in 
each of these capacities he showed himself courteous, obliging and efficient. He 
resigned his position with this company in March, 1888, to accept his present one with 
the Mutual Benefit Association, and in this capacity has shown himself to be the 
right man in the right place. He is a stockholder in the Electric Light & Street 
Railway & Indiana Buggy Company, besides several minor institutions. He is a 
stockholder in the St. Joe Valley Bank, was a member of the council when Elkhart 
was organized as a city, and filled the same position six years later. He is con- 
sidered one of the leading business men of the city, and as a member of the 
Masonic fraternity he has attained to the thirty-second degree. In 1867 he was 
married to Miss Rachel L. Hudson, who died in 1887. 

Jacob Eaton, president of the board of county commissioners of St. Joseph 
county, Ind., was born in Frederick county, Md., May 1, 1819, son of Isaac 
and Margaret (Metzger) Eaton, the former of whom was born in Loudoun county, 
Va., January 24, 1775. He was an only son, whose father was an Euglish soldier 
in the Revolutionary war. When a lad he removed to Montgomery county, Md. , 
where he was reared and apprenticed to the blacksmith's trade, a business, which 
after learning, he followed for many years. During the War of 1812 he was a vol- 
unteer under Gen. Mason, and witnessed the burning of the bridge at the capital. 
His duties were chiefly confined to protecting Baltimore. About the year 1798 he 
was married in Frederick county, Md., near where the battle of Antietam was fought, 
to Margaret Metzger, born November 15, 1781, daughter of Valentine Metzger, a 
German by birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Eaton eight children were born: Amelia, 
Susanna, William and Abraham, deceased, and Samuel, John, Mary and Jacob liv- 
ing. In the fall of 1830 the family emigrated to Montgomery county, Ohio, where 
they remained one year, then came on to St. Joseph county, Ind., and settled on the 
land now devoted to St. Marj''8 Academy in Clay township, which at that time was 
known as German township. His means were limited at the time of his location 
here and he took a large lease on a farm, on which he lived for five years, during 
which time he saved enough money to enter eighty acres of land in Section 17, Clay 
township, which was entirely covered with oak and hickory timber and in a very 
wild state. He cleared a small portion and erected thereon a log cabin 18x20 feet, 
one and one-half stories high, which at that time was considered a very commodious 
and comfortable dwelling. Here he lived for nearly twenty-five years, clearing and 
improving his farm in various ways. By appointment he was one of the commis- 
sioners who located the county seats of Kosciusko and Steuben counties and assisted 
in the surveying of the State road from Detroit to Chicago. He was a very useful 
early pioneer, was a considerate and accommodating neighbor and a law-abiding and 
public-spirited citizen. His death occurred at the home of his son Jacob on Christ- 
mas day, 1869. His wife died April 23, 1863. Their son Abraham was accident- 
ally killed, when young, while loading a flint-lock gun. William, his brother, was 
also accidentally killed in La Porte county by the falling of a timber while he was 
erecting a building. Jacob Eaton, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared 
in his native county, and although but thirteen j'ears of age at the time his parents 
came west, the most of his education was obtained in Maryland. After coming to 
Indiana he never attended a free school, the subscription plan being in vogue here 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 269 

at that time. At the age of twenty-one years he obligated himself to care for his 
parents during their life time iu consideration of the eighty acres in the homestead 
and gave them one-third of the profits of the land iu cash. For several years he 
had a hard time, and at one time, after his marriage, being in need of more land, he 
offered the eighty acres for $800 without finding a purchaser. He afterward sold 
the same for doulile the amount. In 1853 he purchased 150 acres of land and the 
following year settled on the same, where be still resides. He has since added to 
this land until he now owns 225 acres. Mr. Eaton was trustee of Clay township for 
sixteen years and has been county commissioner seven years, being elected on the 
Democrat ticket, which he has always supported. At his last election he received 
800 votes majority and is now acting as president of the board. He is the eldest 
resident of Clay township at the present time, and is one of her most higbl_v honored 
citizens. He was married August 6, 1846, to Elizabeth Barnes, who was born on 
October 27, 1820, in Frederick county, Md. , she being a daughter of John E. and 
Hannah (Yates) Barnes, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of the same. 
John Barnes settled in Penn township, St. Joseph county, in 1837 and afterward 
removed to Berrien, Marion Co., Mich., where his death occurred. His first 
wife died before he came to Indiana, and before his death he had married three 
times, all of his wives dying before he did. The following children were given to 
Mr. and Mrs. Eaton: Emma S., Edwin D. and Johanna \V. living, and Clarissa M. , 
Amelia A., Norman E. and Mark D. deceased. The three living, reside at home., 
Mr. Eaton attended school four winters after coming to Indiana, each term lasting 
three mouths, all of which were couducted on the subscription plan and were held in 
log cabins, consequently his advantages for gaining an education were not of the 
best, but he is, nevertheless, one of the most intelligent men of the county. There 
were but five families residing in Clay township at the time the Batons located here, 
and were scattered along the St. Joseph River, where they could have access to the 
springs. 

Cornelius A. French. The inventive genius of this progressive age has found 
one of its most fertile fields in devising implements designed to lighten the labor 
of the agriculturist; and the progressive farmer of the day is provided with ma- 
chines which, to a great extent, relieve him from heavy manual labor. Among the 
prominent dealers in this line of business is the firm of Neff & French, which, in 
addition to a large stock of agricultural implements, shelf and heavy hardware, tin 
roofing and spouting, make a specialty of the Osborn & Milwakey binder, Imperial 
plow. Flying Dutchman sulky plow. Standard mower, Nappanee buggy and road 
wagon and the Steel Star wind mill. The business house of the firm is 31x132 feet, 
affording ample accommodation for their increasing business, and the members of 
the firm are fully alive to the times and are vigilant to watch all details. The busi- 
ness was established in 1891 and from the first the trade was excellent. Mr. French 
was born April 5, 1851, in Saratoga county, N. Y., and his father, Cyrus French, 
was a native of the same county, born in 1819. The grandfather, George E. French, 
was a native of Massachusetts, born in 1785, and was of good old Puritan stock. 
He was a blacksmith by trade and at an early date moved to New York State where 
his death occurred in 1862. He was a noted man of his time. In politics he affil- 
iated with the Democratic party. The four children born to his marriage were 
named as follows: Sarah, still a resident of New York State; Hiram, died in 1858; 
Malinda, still living, and Cyrus. The latter, the father of our subject, was a black- 
smith by trade, and followed that business up to the time of his death, February 
20, 1860. In politics hewasfirsta "Kuow Nothing,"but later an Anti-Slavery Demo- 
crat. In his choice of a life companion he selected Miss Phcebe J. Stancliff, who 
was born in 1818 and who was the daughter of Louis M. and Jane (GiUis) Stan- 
cliff. Her mother was born in Scotland and the father was reared by a Scotch lady. 
The latter served in the Revolutionary war. After the death of her husband, Mrs. 
French removed to Indiana, settling in Elkhart county, Jefferson township, on a farm 



370 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

of 500 acres, kuown a^ the Staacliff farm, and there reared her family of eight 
children, as follows: Alma J., now Mrs. S. J. Smith, of Jefferson townshij); Al- 
mira L., wife of Anthony C. Manning, of Elkhart City; George E. died April 25, 
1877; Louis J., residing in Emmet county, Mich. ; Seth died at three years; Covert 
died when one year of age, and Phebe J. , died when four years of age. Mrs. 
French was highly respected by all acquainted with her. Her death occurred on 
June 20, 1874. The original of this notice remained with his mother on the farm 
until 1874, when he married Miss Sally M. Ashley. Shortly afterward he moved 
to Elkhart, thence to Goshen and finally, in 18S1, to Nappanee, where for some 
time he was engHged in carrying on a meat market. Later he embarked in the 
hardware business with Mr. Neff, and this he has since continued. He is a member 
of the city council, bearing in part the great responsibility of its present manage- 
ment, that of instituting a complete system of water-works, electric light, etc. He 
takes an active part in all public enterprises and is one of the representative men 
of the city. A Republican in politics, he is loyal to his party and an ardent sup- 
porter of its platform. His wife is a native of the Buckeye State, born June 14, 
1853, and the daughter of Rev. Jonas and Polly (McGee) Ashley. She was reared 
on a farm in Cass county, Mich., and was one of twelve children, nine of whom are 
living. Mr. and Mrs. French had born to their marriage four children, as follows: 
Edith L., Ardella L., Phebe B. and Cyrus J. 

D. A. Lehman. D. A. Lehman, founder of the Lehman Medicine Company, 
was originally from the Buckeye State, born in Williams county, June 4, 1843, and 
is the son of Benjamin and Susan (Sjjitnole) Lehman. Benjamin Lehman was born 
in Lancaster county, Penn., to the marriage of Daniel and Esther (Burkholder) 
Lehman, and was of German descent, his father being a native of the old country. 
Grandfather Lehman came to America with his parents at an early day, settled in 
Lancaster county, Penn., and there married, and reared a family of nine children, 
as follows: John, Jacob, Mary, Benjamin (father of subject), Solomon, Abraham, 
Samuel, Anna and Nancy. The father of these children moved from Pennsylvania 
to Williams county, Ohio, when that county was but sparsely settled, located on a 
farm, and became well known as a substantial and wealthy farmer. He was con- 
nected with the Mennonite Church, in which he was an active worker, and in politics 
was a Republican. Of his children six are living in Ohio, one in Illinois and two 
in Elkhart county, Ind. Nancy married Jacob Christophel. The mother of the 
above-mentioned children was a pious woman and one widely and favorably known 
for her many estimable qualities. Benjamin Lehman left Ohio and came to 
Indiana in 1853, settling on a farm of 120 acres in Elkhart county, where he 
resides at the present time. His farm has been greatly improved and is one of the 
best in the township. In religious and educational matters Mr. Lehman takes a 
decided interest, and he is public-spirited and enterprising. He is a member of 
the Mennonite church, and in politics is a stanch Republican. He married Miss 
Susan Spitnole, a native of Maryland, who was left an orphan at an early age and 
who was reared by the family of Joseph Myers, in Putnam county, Ohio, with 
whom she lived until her marriage. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Lehman, viz. : Daniel A. (subject), Fanny (who is living with her father on the 
old home place), Joseph S. (practicing medicine in Erie county, N. Y., and a mar- 
ried man\ David (a farmer of Marshall county, Ind., died in 1887), Hattie A. (wife 
of B. F. Letherman, of Marshall county, Ind. ), Jacob (married, and resides on the 
old homestead), Menno (single, a music teacher, resides in Elkhart county), and 
George W. (a school teacher). The mother of the above-mentioned children is now 
deceased. The eldest of this family, Daniel A. Lehman, came with his father to 
Elkhart county, Ind., at an early day, and received a good practical education. 
When eighteen years of age he learned the carpenter's trade, and followed this for 
seventeen years, after which he took up the study of medicine as a manufacturing 
chemist. In 1866 he was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Culp, a native of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 271 

Mahoning county, Ohio, born in 1844, and the daughter of Anthony and Susan 
(Bixler) Gulp. She came to Elkhart county, Ind., with her parents, in pioneer 
days, and was here married. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Leh- 
man, as follows: Henry B. and Susan U. (twins), born November 18, 186 <; Albert 
A., born July 5, 1869; Solomon E., born September 24, 1871; David F., bom 
August 10, 1874; Lydia A. and Joseph M. (twins), born July 28, 18/7. and Mar- 
tha M., bora August 16, 1883. Henry, the eldest of these children, married Mies 
Catherine Cook, aud resides in Kansas City, Mo. He is professor of penmanship 
in Spauldiug's Commercial College. Susan U. married Joseph Hamshire, aud has 
three living children, Frank, Mary and Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Lehman are active 
members of the Mennonite Church, and he is superintendent of the Sunday -school. 
He was at one time elected a member of the city council, but resigned. He is 
interested in all worthy movements or anything that benefits the community. In 
politics he is a Prohibitionist.. 

Kev. Vajlentine Cztzewski, C. S. C. , is a native of the Talkinny Government, 
Survalki, Russian Poland, his birth occurring on February 14, 1846, a son of 
Joseph and Eve (Zylinski) Czyzewski. The subject of this sketch was partly 
educated in his native Poland, but completed his knowledge of the "world of 
books" in that famous in.stitution of learning, Notre Dame University. On January 
28, 1876, he was ordained a priest, and was placed in charge of St. Joseph's par- 
ish, but in 1879 the church was blown down. He, with characteristic energy, 
immediately began the erection of a new place of worship, which is now called 
St. Hedwige's, located at 331 South Scott street. South Bend, Ind. Rev. 
Czyzewski's boyhood days were spent on a farm, and for two years he was 
employed in official work, which experience was of great benefit to him. Upon 
his first arrival in the United States he turned his attention to farming and black- 
smithing as a means of livelihood, by which means he saved enough money to 
enable him to enter school, and, being intelligent and apt, he was soon the master 
of the English language, which enabled him to assist in teaching w-hile attending 
school at Notre Dame. Since his pastorate in South Bend he has not allowed the 
work of the church to be at a standstill, either spiritually or practically. He has 
made himself familiar with the various phases of life to which his parishioners are 
born and reared, hence he is in peculiar sympathy with them and well qualified 
to be the leader of his flock. He has built up four churches and two school- 
houses, is active in good work, conscientious in the discharge of bis duty, and is 
deservedlj' popular with his congregation. 

John H. Qdigg is the oldest citizen in point of residence now living in Misha- 
waka, Ind., and in the history of the late Civil war he did not bear an unimportant 
part in that eventful struggle. He is descended fiom the "Canny Scot," for the 
early members of his family removed from Scotland to Ireland with a colony of 
people. The maternal grandfather came from the Emerald Isle and was of Irish 
descent. He settled in Kentucky, became a soldier of the Revolution, and later 
took part in the War of 1812. Henry Quigg, father of John H. Quigg, was a 
farmer of Wayne county, Ind., on the border line between Indiana and Ohio and 
there converted a tract of woodland into a well-cultivated farm. He was married 
to Amanda Ireland, by whom he became the father of the following children: Sarah, 
who died after her marriage; John H. and Armilda. Henry Quigg died at the age 
of forty-four years, having been an industrious, honorable and respected citizen. 
JohnH. Quigg was born on his father's farm November 25, 1830, and received such 
educational advantages as were bestowed upon the youth of his day. He was left 
fatherless at the age of three years and in 1833 was brought by his mother to 
Mishawaka and here began the battle of life for himself by doing such odd jobs as 
came in his way. At the age of eighteen years he became a deck hand on the 
steamer "Algoma," which plied from the mouth of the St. Joseph River to Three 
Rivers, Mich., and afterward worked on the steamer " Michigan," continuing this 



273 riCTOSIAL AND BIOGUAPHIGAL 

work for eight seasons. He next became a clerk in a grocery store and after a time 
oneneil a stationery and dry goods establishment in a small way, which business 
trradually ])rospered. In 1857 he married Mrs.* Ida A. Mix, daughter of John 
Juliiin, a resident of Oswego, N. Y., and after his marriage he settled with his 
wife in Misiiawaka and continued his business pursuits. In 1862 he was appointed 
by the United States Government, provost marshal, in which capacity he served 
until 1864, during which time he was actively employed and did good work, meeting 
with some stirring adventures with bounty jumpers and deserters. On May 16, 
1864, he enlisted in Company H, OneHundred and Thirty-eighth Regiment Indiana 
Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered into the service as second lieutenant, serving 
faithfully until October, when he was honorably discharged on account of severe 
illness. He was taken ill at Stephenson, Ala., and laid for two weeks in a freight 
house at Anderson, Tenn., and as he had no care his was considered a hopeless case. 
However, his naturally good constitution triumphed, and upon convalescing he 
returned home with his regiment and was mustered out of the service at Indianapo- 
lis. After sometime spent in clerking, he opened a grocery establishment of his 
own in 1876 and in 1879 added a stock of dry goods and became associated with H. 
G. Beeiuer, now of Canada, an old resident of Mishawaka, and the firm was known 
as Quigg & Beemer and soon held an enviable position in popular favor. He is 
now one of the prosperous business men of the town and carries a stock of goods 
valued at from $12,000 to §15,000. his being the only dry goods house of the place. 
Mr. Quigg has been a Mason since 1854 and is a member of Mishawaka Lodge, No. 
130. He has always been a Democrat and before the war was a strong anti-slavery 
man. He served very acceptably in the capacity of deputy sheriff for eight years 
and at the same time was provost marshal. He is one of the well-known men of 
the county and during his almost life-long residence at Mishawaka he has stood 
deservedly high in the estimation of the public and has numerous warm friends. 
His wife, an estimable and intelligent lady, is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Samuel Leeper, one of the well-known and prominent residents of South Bend, 
Ind., owes his nativity to Montgomery county, Ohio, where he was born on ths 10th 
of December. 1862. to Samuel and Susan (Metzger) Leeper, the former of whom was 
a pioneer of South Bend, and is mentioned elsewhere in this work, and the latter a 
native of Stark county, Ohio, born on the 16th of June, 1832, daughter of Sebastian 
Metzger, whose native birthplace was Alsace, France. Samuel Leeper has been a 
resident of St. Joseph county since he was about one year old, and in the public 
schools of South Bend he obtained his literary education, the old homestead being 
located adjacent to the town. He passed his earlier years in following the occu- 
pations which usually fall to the lot of the farmer boy. and until 1888 assisted in 
tilling the home farm, then decided that other occupations would suit him better, 
and in company with James D. Reid he established a brick mamifactory, which is 
now carried on by him under the firm name of Leeper & Reid. Mr. Reid retired 
from the firm in January, 1892. The plant consists of the latest improved machinery, 
with a capacity of turning oat 60,000 pressed brick per day, which gives employment 
to about fifty men. The annual output is about five millions, and as he is a manu- 
facturer of "the soundest judgment and marked executive capacity, he is specially 
qualified to guide aright such important interests as these. On the 9th of January, 
1888, he was married to Miss Delia M. Earl, who was born on the 16th of July, 1866, 
in Michigan, a daughter of David and Elsa (Relyea) Earl, natives of Michigan. Mr. 
and Mrs. Leeper are the parents of two children: Lena Leota, born October 6, 1889, 
and Rittie. born November 11, 1891. Mr. Leeper is a member in good standing of 
those worthy organizations, the K. of P. and Elks, and in politics is a Republican. 
The business with which he is connected is deserving of success, its product being 
preferred by the best class of trade, and Mr. Leeper may be considered an expert in 
all that concerns brick making. 



MEMOIUS OF INDIANA. 375 

John J. Schindler is a well known official of Penn townsbip, St. Joseph Co., 
lud., and a son of Andrew Schindler, who was born in Baden, Germanj', but who, 
in 1848, became a resident of the United States (at which time he was but sixteen 
years of age) and for some time thereafter he worked at the tailor's trade in Buffalo, 
N. Y. Upon reaching manhood Andrew Schindler was married to Miss Rosa Kuhu, 
a native of Switzerland, and a family of eight children was given to them, four of 
whom died young, and four lived to maturity: John J., Andrew J., William N. and 
Joseph J. Mr. Schindler and his family resided in Buffalo until 1864, when he 
removed to Dunkirk, N. Y. , where his home continued to be until 1869, during 
which time he was successfully engaged in the hotel business. In that year Misha- 
waka became his home, and on Main street he opened a grocery and hotel, and 
by the e.xercise of much energy and by careful management he accumulated a sub- 
stantial property. He died August 25, 1879, at the age of forty-nine years, an 
earnest member of the Catholic Church, of which his wife was also a member. John 
J. Schindler was born at Buffalo, N. Y., February 11, 1851, and received a good 
commercial education in St. Joseph Academy, of his native city. After coming to 
Mishawaka, at the age of twelve years he entered the service of his uncles, the 
Kiihn Bros., proprietors of the St. Joseph Flouring Mills, and continued with them 
for eight years, becoming thoroughly acquainted with the details of the flouring 
business. After the death of his father, he assumed the management of the hotel 
and grocery establishment, and successfully conducted both until 1879, when he 
engaged in the same business for himself and followed it until 1887, in addition to 
which he also did a general fire insurance business, was a steamship agent, and con- 
ducted a foreign exchange. In 1876 he was a notary public and conveyancer, in 
which office he continued until elected township trustee in 1888, by a majority of 
live votes. In 1890 he was re-elected by a majority of 419 votes, which would indi- 
cate that he has filled the office to the general satisfaction of the people. He was 
also admitted as an attorney in the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Pensions, 
in 1880, and by his untiring efforts he has had the best of success in securing pen- 
sions, bounty and war claims generally, which have brought relief to many an ex- 
soldier, his widow, or dependent relatives, and have earned for him many warm and 
lasting friends. He is secretary of the county board of education, has taken an 
active interest in the cause of education and organized the township libraries in the 
district schools, besides introducing the first books for these libraries, which are now 
in a flourishing condition, there being now overtwo thousand in circulation. The school 
at Osceola contains over four hundred volumes, and it is not unusual for the other 
districts of the township to have two hundred volumes in their libraries. The power 
for good wielded by these libraries, and the lasting influence they produce, can not be 
overestimated. In 1887 Mr. Schindler bought his present property of Dr. Van 
Pelt, consisting of a commodious residence and lot. He has largely increased his 
insurance business, and now represents twenty-five leading companies: the Royal, 
of Liverpool, England; The North British & Mercantile, of London and Edinboro; 
The Liverpool & London & Globe, of England; The ^tna, of Hartford, Conn. ; 
Continental, of New York, and the Girard, of Philadelphia, being the principal ones. 
He also represents eight steamship companies, and issues letters of credit and bills 
of exchange on aU the principal cities of Europe. His wife holds the office of 
notary public. They were married May 20, 1879, Mrs. Schindler' s maiden name 
being Christina Fierstos, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Fierstos. Three chil- 
dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Schindler: Alovsius J„ born May 4, 1880; 
John W., born November 7, 1884, and Clara M., bom October 26, 1887. Mr. 
Schindler is a member of the Catholic Knights of America, a benevolent and insur- 
ance company. He is a stanch Democrat, and he and his wife are devout Catholics. 
He possesses many noble traits of character, is entirely self-made, and owes his 
success in life, and the high estimation in which he is held by all who know him, to 
his manly course through life. He is interested in all good causes, and is one of 

17 



276 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

the public-spirited men of Mishawaka. His integrity is above question, and the 
fine property of which he is the owner, has been well earned. Besides his residence 
propert}' he owns a one-third interest in the St. Joseph Flouring Mills, and a busi- 
ness block in the town, in conuection with his brothers, all of whom reside in Mish- 
awaka except Andrew, who is a machinist of Chicago. Mrs. Schindler's father and 
mother came from Germany, the former becoming a farmer near Canton, Stark Co., 
Ohio, where they reared the following childi'en: Elizabeth, Mary, Lena, Theresa, 
Martin, Joseph, Greorge, Caroline, Christina and Mena. 

Samuel A. HiLLiERis the very efficient and trusted secretary and treasurer of the 
South Bend Lumber Company, and owes his nativity to Burlington. N. J. , where he 
was born October 30, 1850, to Richard A. and Frances (Stoll) Hillier, the mother 
being a native of Switzerland. Richard Hillier was born on the ocean while his 
parents were en route for America on a visit, but until he was about eighteen years of 
age he resided in England, and there obtained his schola.stic education, although the 
practical part of his knowledge was obtained after his removal to America. He first 
settled in Philadelphia, where he conducted a shoe store for a number of years. 
Here he was married to Frances Stoll, who had come to this country with her par- 
ents at the age of nine years. A few years after his marriage Mr. Hillier removed 
to Burlington, N. J., where he at first devoted his attention to the shoe busi- 
ness, but not long afterward engaged in the real estate business, which he 
followed until his deatli, being classed among the successful business men in 
his line of his day. He was called from life in the month of March, 1872, his 
widow surviving him until October, 1890, when she too was called from this life. 
They were the parents of nine children: Harry, Joseph, Richard, Samuel, Anna, 
Fannie, Emelia, Maggie, Louisa. The subject of this sketch remained in his native 
town nntil he was eighteen years of age, then came to South Bend, and having 
been apprenticed to the carpenter's trade, he entered the employ of George Gore to 
complete the same, and at the expiration of two years began working for himself, 
■continuing for about one year. Following this he began contracting and fulfilled his 
contracts in such a manner that he became very well and favorably known. He 
carried on this business with success for seven years, but in January, 1880. formed 
a partnership with W. R. Boyd, under the firm name of Boyd & Hillier, and en- 
gaged in the lumber business in connection with operating a planing-mill, in which 
business he is still engaged. The business is now conducted under the firm name 
of the South Bend Lumber Company, of which Mr. Hillier is secretary and treas- 
urer. He is proving the right man in the right place, for he is faithful, industrious, 
painstaking and honest. The business is conducted on sound commercial princi- 
ples, and as their prices are based an a scale of strict moderation, satisfaction is at 
all times assured. Mr. Hillier is a gentleman of rare business ability and the high- 
est standing and is undoubtedly one of the leaders in his line of work in the city of 
South Bend. On the 8th of February, 1892, he was united in marriage to Miss 
Martha E. Elder, who was born January 7, 1851, in South Bend, a daughter of John 
and Emily (Sweet) Elder, the former a native of Scotland and latter a native of 
Massachusetts. Mr. and Mrs. Hillier are the parents of five children: Ada, 
Edith, Forest, Glenn, Samuel D. In addition to his business in South Bend and 
his residence property, Mr. Hillier owns a half interest in a farm of 105 acres, 
south of the citj' limits, which is a valuable property. He is a member of the Royal 
Arcanum and in politics is a Republican. He has brought a wide range of practical 
experience to bear upon the lumber business and is proportionately prosperous. 

Barney C. Smith. The creditable condition of mercantile life in South Bend, 
Ind. , is due in a great extent to the enterprise, energy and intelligence of her 
prominent merchants and manufacturers. Among these may be mentioned the firm 
of Smith & Jackson, dealers in sash, doors, blinds and lumber, and these gentlemen 
have built up a trade of extensive proportions, and an enviable reputation for strictly 
honorable dealings on all occasions. They are located in convenient and suitable 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAJS\i. 277 

premises that are appropriately fitted up and they keep in stock every description of 
lumber in their line, which they are compelled to do by the heavy demands made 
upon them. Mr. Smith is a native of Germany where he was born in 1854, and 
when one year old he was brought by his parents, Jacob and Catherine (Beach) Smith, 
to the United States and with them located on a farm near South Bend, on which 
place the father died in 1869. On this farm Barney C. Smith was reared and during 
his boyhood many days of hard labor were spent in clearing land and tilling the 
soil. In 1875 he took up his residence in South Bend and until he engaged in busi- 
ness for himself worked in a planing-mill belonging to N. Jackson, during which 
time he became familiar with the lumber business in all its phases and was well 
prepared to take upon himself the duties of that business when he did so. On the 
30th of April, 1879, he was married to Miss Julia (Kimball) Harmon, widow of 
Edwin Harmon and daughter of Freeman Kimball. She is the mother of one 
child by her first husband, Cora Harmon, and she and Mr. Smith have an adopted 
daughter, taken from the Orphan's Home in 1885, and who is now eleven years of 
age. Mrs. Smith is a member of Grace Methodist Episcopal Church and Mr. Smith 
is a member of the K. of P. and Uniform Rank. 

John S. Inks, M. D. The value to any community of a professional man is not 
marked merely by his learning and skill, his proficiency in medical and surgical 
practice, but also by his character, both private and professional, his honorable ad- 
herence to medical ethics and his personal integrity and benevolence of purpose. 
When a physician combines these characteristics it is with pleasure that we record 
his life work, and such a man do we find in Dr. John S. Inks. This gentleman, who 
is one of the prominent physicians of Elkhart county, has been practicing the 
healing art in the town of Nappanee for the last four years, and his skill and signal 
success in this calling are well known. He was the eldest child born to the union 
of Thomas and Elizabeth (Moore) Inks (the father of one of the pioneers of Elkhart 
county), and in aildition to a common-school education, he attended high school at 
Bristol, Ind., Elkhart and Mishawaka Normal and the Valparaiso Institute. He 
subsequently attended the Chicago Medical College of Physicians and Surgeons and 
graduated from the same in the year 1884. The same year he began practicing in 

and continued there until 1888, when he removed to Nappanee, of which 

city he has been a resident since. He has ever been public spirited and is interested 
in all entei-prises for the advancement and progress of the city. He is a member of 
the State and district medical association, and has obtained a position placing him in 
the front rank of the medical fraternity. The political views of the Doctor have 
brought him into alfiliation with the Democratic party and he is an earnest upholder 
of its principles and policy. For a number of years he was a resident of St. Joseph 
county, Ind., and while a resident of the same he held the office of justice of the 
peace thirteen years . During that time he taught school thirteen terms and was 
well known as one of the most popular educators of the county. The marriage of 
Dr. Inks with Miss Mary E. Yaut took place in 1869, and to them have been given 
three interesting children, as follows; Henrietta, now Mrs. Gore, is the mother of 
one child, Agnes; Charles, who is now sixteen years of age is still in school; and 
Nellie who died at the age of two years. Mrs. Inks is the daughter of Andrew and 
Eva (Lower) Yant, early pioneers of Elkhart County. She was born in Ohio and 
was a small girl when she came with her parents to Elkhart county. Dr. and Mrs. 
Inks are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and have a pleasant home on 
West Market street. 

TnoM.is Inks. England has ever numbered many representatives among the 
best class of citizens in Indiana. There is a sterling quality about the nationality 
that particularly fits them for pioneer life and we as Americans are greatly indebted 
to settlers of English origin for the rapid advancement made in our civilization. 
The Inks family came originally from England, the first representatives in this 
•country being three brothers, John, William and George, who settled in Pennsyl- 



278 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

vania at a period antedating the Revolution, married, and reared large families. 
John Inks, the grandfather of our subject, was one of these brotheis. To his mar- 
riat^e eight children, two sons and six daughters, were born, as follows: Thomas, 
John, Nancy. Mary. Elizabeth, Rebecca, Sarah, Parmelia and Eleanor. John, the 
second in order of birth of these children, all of whom are deceased, was the father 
of our subject. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1777, and there passed his boyhood 
and youth. At an early date he emigrated with the rest of the family to Ohio, and 
was there married to Miss Eleanor Camton, a native of New Jersey, born in 1779, 
and one of live children: Job, John, Eleanor, Sarah and Nancy, Ijorn to the marriage 
of John Compton. Soon after his marriage John Inks went to Indiana and settled one 
mile below Benton, in Elkhart county, on Elkhart River. This was in 1828, and the 
following year he built the first saw mill in the county, and sawed the first lumber. 
In the fall of that year he returned to Ohio and brought his family to the almost 
unbroken wilds of Elkhart county. Five years later he moved to Goshen, then a 
small town, and made his home there until 1840, when he bought a farm near Mil- 
ford. Later he sold this and moved to Olive township, where he operated a saw-mill 
until his death in 1853. He was one of the very earliest pioneer citizens and a man 
of good judgment and sound, practical sense. His wife also passed away in 1853. 
Their union was blessed by the following children: William, John. Sarah, Ezekiel, 
Joseph, James, Beecher and Thomas (subject). Mr. Inks was a memlier of the 
United Brethren and his wife a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in 
politics he was a Whig. His children were all born in the Buckeye State, and the 
older ones were married there. Joseph and Thomas are the only ones living. Thomas 
Inks was born in Franklin county, Ohio, in 1828, and attended the subscription 
schools of that early da}'. When six years of age he came with his parents to Elk- 
hart county, Ind. , and is now probably one of the oldest pioneers of this county. 
When twenty-one years of age be started out on his own responsibility, and in 1845 
was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Moore, a native of New York State, born 
in 1825, and the daughter of Samuel and Sai'ah (Anderson) Moore. She was one of 
a large family, John, Thomas, Hugh, William, Margaret, Mary and Jane. The 
parents of these children came to the county in pioneer times, and the father died 
here in 1855 and the mother in 1867. Thomas Inks and wife settled on a farm in 
this county, and in connection with his farming interest Mr. Inks was engaged in 
the marble business for many years, being a stone cutter, and has met with fair suc- 
cess in all his undertakings. During the Rebellion Mr. Inks enlisted in Company 
K, Thirtieth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served his country faith- 
fully for three years. He was a faithful soldier and ever ready for duty. Some of 
the principal engagements in which he participated were: Shiloh, Stone River, 
Chickamauga and the siege of Atlanta. During service his eyesight was injured 
and he is now almost blind. He was discharged on September 2t), 1864, and returned 
to his home and family. For the past ten years he has retired from the active 
labors to which he devoted himself after his return from the war, and now lives in 
the enjoyment of the comfortable home which he owns in Nappauee, where he has 
resided for the past two years. His marriage resulted in the birth of six children, 
who are named as follows: John S., one of the leading physicians of Nappanee; 
Elbridge; Anthony W. ; Mary; Emma, and Cora, all living, and four residents of 
Elkhart county at the present time. In politics Mr, Inks is a Democrat, and he and 
his wife are worthy and exemplary members of the United Brethren Church. He 
comes of good old fighting stock, his ancestors serving in the Revolution, his father 
in the War of 1812 and he himself in the Civil war. 

Newton Jackson, wholesale lumber dealer of South Bend. The lumber inter- 
ests of South Bend, Ind., are second to no other city of the same size in the State, 
and one of the foremost houses, whose reputation has gone abroad, is that of New- 
ton Jacksou, who has been familiar with the lumber business from early manhood, 
for his father was for many years engaged in saw-milling about fourteen miles west 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 279 

of South Beud, and there young Newton was initiated into the details of lumber. 
He was born in Seneca county, Ohio, May 9, 1840, but with his parents became a 
resident of Indiana in 1854, and located on a large tract of timber laud in St. Joseph 
county, which he assisted in clearing. His parents were John and Elizabeth 
(Eager) Jackson, the former of whom was Scotch and the latter of Irish descent. 
In 1874 Newton Jackson engaged in the furniture business in Elkhart and Mish- 
awaka, the house being known as the Mishawaka Furniture Company. Upon mov- 
ing to South Bend he opened a hard wood lumber yard in this city, and at the same 
time opeuel one in Des Moines, Iowa, but closed out the latter yard in 1879, how- 
ever, continuing business in South Bend until 1886, when he sold his yard and en- 
gaged in the wholesale lumber business, which he has conducted in the moat satis- 
factory manner up to the present time. He is an energetic and live business man, 
well known in commercial and financial circles and does a very large and constantly 
increasing business. He is a man of unquestioned reputation and is well deserving 
the success he enjoys. He was married in early manhood to Miss Caroline Deppen, 
by whom he became the father of four children; Charles H. , Ella A., Sibyl and 
Irwin. The mother of these children died in July, 1877, and on September 19, 
1878, he took for his second wife. Miss Ellen Smith who has borne him three chil- 
dren: Clement, Hallie and Edna. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson are members of the 
Methodist Church, and are highly respected by the citizens of South Bend. In 
1881 Mr. Jackson was elected a county commissioner and filled the duties of this 
position with great credit for one term. Socially, he is a member of the Royal 
Arcanum. 

Henry Stauffer is the eldest son of that worthy pioneer, Jacob StaufFer, and in 
his native county, Columbiana, Ohio, he was reared and educated. He was a good 
scholar, and grew to be a man of sound judgment and a substantial citizen, the 
worthy follower of such a man as his father. He came with his parents and brother 
John to Elkhart county, Ind., in 1852, but prior to that time, on October 5, 1850, he 
had married him a wife in Ohio, her maiden name being Mary A. Winder, who was 
born in the county in which they were then residing, July 9, 1829. She was a 
daughter of Joseph and Amy (Taylor) Winder, the former of whom was born in 
Crawford county, Penn. , April 22, 1805, a son of James and Ann (Kirk) Winder. 
Ann Kirk's parents were Joseph and Judith (Knight) Kirk, the former a descendant 
of Roger Kirk. Joseph Winder became one of the early residents of Ohio, and there 
he followed agricultural pursuits and taught school, being successful in both occupa- 
tions. He was also a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church and was very 
active in hia field of labor. His wife was born in Crawford county, Penn., and in 
that State they were married, later moving to Portage county, Ohio, whore the 
father was called from life in 1851, the mother's death occurring at Nappanee in 
May, 1891. To them ten children were born, seven of whom were reared; Mary 
A., who <lied in 1885, was the wife of Henry Staufi'er; Sarah A., who is 
Mrs. Minor, living in Locke township, Elkhart Co., Ind.; Abigail, wife of 
John Stauffer; James N., who died at the age of three years; Hannah L., who is 
Mrs. Swartz, of Nappanee; John, who died when young; Nancy L., who is living in 
Ohio; Sophia A., who is deceased, was the wife of Mr. Miller, of Elkhart, her demise 
occurring in 1874; Samuel is a man of family and is living in Kansas; and Joseph, 
who is deceased. Mrs. Winder came to Elkhart county about twenty-five years ago 
and located in Harrison township, of this county, but eventually passed from life in 
Union township. When Mr. Stauffer came with his people to this section he and 
his father and brother John put their money into a farm of 160 acres, on which 
they lived a number of years, during which time they accumulated means, and were 
undeniably successful in all ther undertakings, owing to the fact that they did not 
hesitate to put their hands to any work they were called upon to do, showed good 
judgment in their ventures and were prudent in their expenditures. He is now living 
a retired life in the town of Nappanee, having been called upon to mourn the 



280 PICTORIAL A2fD BIOGRAPHICAL 

death of his wife on March 7, 1885. She was very highly respected and esteemed 
by all who knew her, and her loss was deeply felt by all, especially by her husband 
and children to whom she had been all in all for so many years. The family reared 
by Mr. StaufPer and his wife are as follows: Walter, who was born in Ohio, May 25, 
1852, is now living in South Whitley county, Ind. , a successful medical practitioner, 
is married to Miss Lydia Shaffer and has three children living, Owen, Mabel and 
Floyd, little Beulah having died in infancy (in addition to his practice he is also 
the efficient editor of the South Whitley Nejvs) ; Joseph E. , the next in order of birth, 
was born in Elkhart county, September 13, 1854, is married to Catharine Halley, by 
whom he has one child, Maude, and they are residing in the State of Washington; 
Ida L. is the wife of A. V. Guiss, of Nappanee, by whom she has one child, 
Carie D. ; Leonard was born January 13,1860, and died September 30, 1866; Elmer E. 
was born May 13, 1864, and died February 23, 1865, and Jepsie, who was born 
November 25, 1869, and died January 26, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Stauffer gave their 
children good and useful educations, which fitted them for the practical lives they 
have thus far led, and they are now among the substantial residents of the county. 
Mr. Stauffer owns a large and valuable farm in Union township, but has not tilled it 
for many years, preferring to spend his declining years in the enjoyment of the com- 
petency which his early industry earned. He is a public-spirited man, takes an 
active interest in politics, and has for years affiliated with the Republican party, 
although he has never aspired to hold anything but township offices. He is tlae 
worthy son of a worthy father, and in his retirement carries with him the high 
regard of his fellow-citizens and the best wishes of his numerous friends. 

Francis Black, Misbawaka, Ind. One of the few men, now living, who served 
his country not only in the Civil war, but also in the Mexican war, is the gentle- 
man of whom this sketch is written. His father, John Black, was a native of County 
Down, Ireland, and by trade was a weaver. He married and was the father of 
eight children, as follows: Isabel, Samuel, Mary. John, David, James, Hugh and 
Francis. In 1828 Mr. Black came to America, bringing with him his family, land- 
ing in Quebec and settling at St. Joseph, Mich. He came to Mishawaka in 1840 
and made his home with his son, Samuel, and died in Middlebury, Ind., at the age 
of eighty-seven years at the home of his son, Francis, our subject. His wife had died 
in Ireland and both of them had been members of the Presbyterian Church. He 
was an industrious man, honest and respected by all who knew him. Francis Black 
was born in County Down, Ireland, May 17, 1824, and was four years of age when 
brought to this country by his parents. He received a limited common-school edu- 
cation in Mishawaka and learned the carpenterV trade. February 24, 1847, he 
enlisted in the Mexican war, in Capt. W. H. Walker's company. Sixth Regiment 
of Infantry and served until July 31, 1848. The winter of 1847—48 he was quar- 
tered with his company at Milwaukee, Wis., which, in the spring went to Newport, 
Ky. , and thence down the Mississippi to New Orleans and then crossed the gulf. 
He participated in the battles of Cherubusco, Molino del Rey, Castle of Chapultapec 
and the siege and capture of the City of Mexico. He served under Gen. Worth and was 
present when Gen. Scott made his triumphant entry into Mexico. Mr. Black was 
quartered in the St. Francis Convent in Mexico for eight months and was then quartered 
sixty miles south of Taluca, Mexico, until peace was declared, when he came home 
with his regiment. The last two months of his service he served as cook for Gen. 
Hancock, for whom he has always entertained a high regard. After he returned to 
Mishawaka. he worked at his trade for some five months, but in 1849 he started across 
the plains to California, and was six months and four days on the way. He was 
one of the " Bristol Company," which consisted of sixteen wagons, each drawn by 
three yoke of oxen. They had no trouble with the Indians, although they met them. 
On one occasion they met a band of Sioux, and, after paying toll to the chief, of 
beads, tobacco, etc. , amounting to about 16, they smoked the pipe of peace and 
were permitted to pass on their way. One of the young men ran a race with a 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 281 

young ludian, who wagered a buffalo skin against a satin vest, and the white man 
won the wager, much to the surprise of the Indians. Mr. Black mined for gold on 
the Bear River. Deer Creek, South Yuba River and at Coyote Diggings, in all 
about one year, but was not very successful. He then went to San Francisco and 
worked at his trade of carpenter, receiving $100 per month for nine months and 
then returned home, arriving in Mishawaka, December 28. 1852. He married Han- 
nah, daughter of Jonathan and Annie (Mead) Buck, after which Mr. Black spent 
one year at Adrian, Mich., and then went to Middlebury, Ind., where he l)ought 
land and worked at his trade, remaining at this point eleven years. Following this 
he removed to Plymouth, Marshall Co., Ind., where he bought land and lived for 
eighteen years. On December 1-4, 1861, our subject enlisted in Company G, Forty- 
eighth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served nine months. He was 
promoted to the office of orderly sergeant and participated in the battle of luka, 
Miss. , but was taken sick at Paducah, Ky., and sent home on furlough, tinaJly being 
discharged on account of disability. However, after he recovered he le enlisted in 
1865, entering the One Hundred and Fifty-tirst Regiment of Indiana Volunteer 
Infantry and served as sergeant for three months, being jiromoted May 25, 1865, 
at Tullahoma, Tenn. , to the position of second lieutenant, remaining in the service 
until the close of the war. In May, 1865, his wife died and Mr. Black sent in bis 
resignation and was honorably discharged. He continued to reside in Marshall 
county until 1882. Here he married Hannah, a daughter of Simeon Cudney, but she 
died and he later married Henrietta Ely, a widow, daughter of PhiliiJ and Elizabeth 
(Mosyer) Paul. In 1882 he came to Mishawaka and retired from active work. 
Both Mr. and Mrs. Black are members of the Presbyterian Church and socially he 
is a member of the G. A. R. , being its present commander, having lieeu the senior 
vice-commander and officer of the day of this post. He is much respected by all 
who have his acquaintance and has the confidence of the people, being one of the 
trustees of the town of Mishawaka. For many years he was a stanch Republican in 
his political opinions, but since his old commander became a candidate for the presi- 
dency he has voted the Democratic ti"ket. He was one of the members of the old 
lodge of Odd Fellows in Mishawaka. Mr. Black owns his residence and receives a 
liberal pension from the Government for his services to his country. He has always 
been an honored citizen and his patriotic services should entitle him to honorable 
consideration. He preserves his recollection of the stirring events through which 
he has passed, the like of which will never be seen on American soil again. Among 
the interesting reminiscences of his Mexican war experience Mr. Black tells of an 
occasion, while he was acting as orderly for Gen. Scott, of the stationing of the 
troops in the halls of the Montezumas. He was present on the morning when the 
American army retired from the City of Mexico, the American flag was lowered and 
the Mexican flag again waved over the ancient fortress. An earthquake occurred 
while the troops occupied the City of Mexico, which greatly alarmed the garrison 
and so injured the aqueduct that the water supply was for a time cut off. Con- 
cerning his early experience upon the great western plains, he tells of three men 
who died of cholera in their party. When the first gold agitation was started, he, with 
many others, went some one hundred and eighty miles beyond the Mississippi 
River on the way to Pike's Peak, but they met so many discouraged men returning 
that they gave up the trip. At that time buffalo were still plentiful. The first 
husband of the present Mrs. Black, was Isaac Ely, who was born in Logan county, 
Ohio, in 1831, and married Henrietta Paul, born December 25, 1836, in Richland 
county, Ohio, the marriage taking place October 8, 1857, and to them were born seven 
children. Two of these died in infancy, the names of all being: Louisa V., Alfa- 
retta, Don C, William C, Charles, Ora and Orma. Mr. Ely was a blacksmith, by 
trade, lived in Ohio awhile after marriage, then came to Indiana and settled in 
Walkerton, St. Joseph county. He enlisted in 1862 in Logan county, Ohio, in the 
Fourteenth Ohio Battery, served over one year and was then discharged on account 



282 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of disability. He re-enlisted February 25, 1864, in Company G, Seventeenth 
Regiment, and was discharored at Columbus, Ohio, May 13, 1X65, Laving taken 
part in the battles of Pittsburg Lauding and Chattanooga. He died iu 1876, in 
Marshall county, Ind., a member of the United Brethren Church, leaving behind 
him a record of an honest man and true patriot soldier. His health was destroyed 
iu the army. Philip Paul, father of Mrs. Black, was born in Pennsylvania, learned 
the trade of tailor and married Elizabeth Moyer. They reared a family of twelve 
children: Daniel \V.. Susan, George, Lewis, Eliza, Henrietta, Julian and Joseph. 
This was a patriotic family, three of the sons. George, Lewis and Joseph serving 
through the war, George giving up his life. Three other nephews of Mrs. Black, 

John, James and , sons of her sister, Susan McDauiels, testified to their 

loyalty by becoming soldiers when the nation needed them. Philip Paul died iu 
Richland county, Ohio, on the farm at the age of forty-one years, and his daughter, 
Julian, died unmarried. 

J. M. Delotter is a well-known citizen of Elkhart county, whose intelligence, 
enterprise and energy, with many other estimable qualities have secured for him a 
popularity not derived from any factitious circumstance, but a permanent and 
spontaneous tribute to his merit. He was born in Kosciusko county, Ind., iu 1850, 
and his father, Lewis Delotter, was one of the early pioneers of that county. The 
latter was born in Maryland, as was also the grandfather, George Delotter, who was 
of German and French parentage. Lewis Delotter was the third child in a family 
of six children, and was reared to farm life. Later he learned the blacksmith's trade, 
and this was his chief occupation through life. Thinking to better his condition he 
left his native State and settled within the borders of Preble county, Ohio, in 1830. 
He was married to Miss Lydia Wysong, and in the Buckeye State reared most of his 
children. In 1849 he moved with his family to Kosciusko county, Ind., settled on a 
farm one mile west of Milford. but in 1850 moved to Goshen, and there died five 
years later. A member in good standing in the Lutheran Church, an early pioneer 
in both Ohio and Indiana, he was one of the county's best citizens. He always 
supported the men and measures of the Republican party, and was public spirited 
and progressive. He was married twice, first in Ohio to Miss Margaret Staver, who 
bore him four children, all of whom grew to mature years, and were named as fol- 
lows: Aaron, residing in Goshen, was a soldier iu the Civil war: Joseph (deceased); 
Henry (died in the army), and Catherine, now Mrs. Burns, of Illinois. The mother 
of these children died in Ohio, and Mr. Delotter was afterward married in that 
State to Miss Lydia Wysong, four children resulting from this union: Elizabeth, 
now Mrs. Samuel Malto. of Goshen; Anna, Mrs. Darrell, of Goshen; Sylvanus, a 
stone mason, residing in Nappauee, and James M. (sul)ject). Mrs. Delotter was 
born in Ohio, and was a sister of Robert Wysong, of Union township (see sketch). 
After the death of her husband in 1855, she was married to Israel Wyland, who was 
an early pioneer of Elkhart county, and county recorder eight years. To this mar- 
riage two children were born: Emma, who is now Mrs. Henry Fisher, of Nappauee 
(see sketch), and one that died in infancy. Mrs. Wyland died in Goshen April 9, 
1892, and was a lady whose intelligence and many excellent qualities made her a 
favorite with all. James M. Delotter, the origiual of this notice, was reared in Goshen, 
attended the public schools of that town, and learned the trade of molder in a 
machine shop. This he followed for eighteen years, and in 1876 went to Mont- 
gomery county, Ohio, where he started a saw-mill and tile factory, operating the 
same for six years. He became well versed in the uses and composition of various 
clays, and in 1884 came to Nappauee, Ind., where, seeing the great necessity for 
increased tiling on the adjacent low land of this section of country, be began pros- 
pecting for a favorable site to erect a tile plant. He found one about one-half mile 
from the corporate limits of the town on the west side. This plant he ran for a 
period of three years up to 1887. when the increasing demands made by the farming 
community around necessitated the building of a larger plant which should include 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 283 

the manufacture of brick also. In order to do this Mr Delotter must have more 
capital, and hence in that year he sold a half interest to Mr. J. C. Mellinger, cashier 
of the Farmer's & Trader's Bank, and their present plant was accordingly erected 
a short distance from the original, but nearer to the track of the Baltimore & Ohio 
Railroad, which renders loading much easier. This year (1892) they have turned 
out over a million of brick alone at this factory, and these are of a superior quality 
too. Now that orders are coming in from outside, this company will be in a posi- 
tion by next season to turn out twice the product of this yea)-, as the right kind of 
machinery to manipulate the clay properly, has been secured after over three years' 
careful experimenting with sundry patents in this line. The tile factory is a solid 
two-storv brick structure 40x80 feet, and has an inside shed capacity for 40,000 tiles 
together with an attached outside shed capacity for 35,000 tiles. There are two 
"down draft kilns" with a capacity of 18,000 tiles each, and here are made the 
various tiles from three inches up to twelve inches, with all sizes between. Work is 
carried on in winter as well as summer, the arrangements for steam heating and 
drying being of the most modern style. The plant is situated at one side of a forty- 
acre plat of ground owned by this company, and is assuming a fast increasing value 
by virtue of the growing demands for Ijrick and tile in this and surrounding terri- 
tory. Sewer pipe clay thirty-five feet in depth is here to be found in abundance. 
The present output of tile this year has been 360,000, although of brick and tile, 
3,000,000 can be easily turned out annually. Sixteen hands are here employed 
earning good wages, but the coming season's demands will need at least thirty men 
to do the work which is fast increasing. While in Montgomery county. Ohio, he 
married Miss Lucinda Smith, and they have had two children. Lizzie and Sherman 
D., both now deceased. Mr. Delotter is a pushing business man and one of influ- 
ence in Nappanee. He and Mrs. Delotter are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and in politics he is a Republican. Mrs. Delotter was Ijorn in Montgomery 
county, Ohio, May 3, 1853, and was the second in order of birth of seven children 
born to Daniel B. and Elizabeth (Early) Smith. Daniel Smith was a native of 
Montgomery county, Ohio, and the son of William and Rebecca (Drear) Smith, who 
were the parents of eight children: David. William, Prucilla, John, Jacob, Eliza- 
beth and Daniel. Daniel is still living on a farm in Montgomery county, Ohio, and 
is deacon in the United Brethren Church. In politics he is a Republican. His wife 
was a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Miller) Early, and a native of Virginia. She 
came with her parents to Ohio at an early day, and was one of twelve children: 
Anna, Susan. Elizabeth, Martin, Jacob, Lydia, Lucinda, Noah, Catherine, Joseph, 
John and Esther. The last two named were by a second marriage. To Daniel B. 
Smith and wife were born seven children as follows: Jacob, Lucinda, Martha J., 
Orion F., Mary E. and Emma; one deceased. Mrs. Delotter is the only one of 
the family in the county. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
and she and her husband are highly esteemed in the town. 

Darwin H. B.^kek (deceased). There is no inheritance so rich as the records of 
the worthy lives of those who have parted from this world and have gone to receive 
the reward which awaits them in Heaven. We all have strivings after a high idea], 
but an ideal alone is of little value if not re-enforced by the example of those who, like 
ourselves have human frailties, yet have been enabled to so overcome them as to lead 
lives of usefulness, integrity and true godliness. That death loves a shining mark 
was painfully realized when it became known that Darwin H. Baker, one of South 
Beiid's best known citizens and most successful business men, had passed to that 
bourne from whence no traveler returns. He had been ailing for about two weeks, 
but nothing about his case was considered alarming and he was expected soon to 
he able to be about again, but it was ere long found that those about him were mis- 
taken, for it soon became evident that he was a very sick man. Any improvement 
in his condition seemed to be but transitory and it soon became certain that he was 
slowly and surely growing worse. Symptoms of the deadly Bright's disease were 



284 PICTORIAL -l.VZ» BlOGHA/'HWAl. 

noted and tbe complication of extn^me nervousness with tbe most aggravating of 
stomach disorders rapidly weakened the patient. The best physicians were employed, 
and although those who understood the condition of the patient had practically 
given up hope, none were prepared for the great shock that all experienced when they 
learned that Mr. Baker had been summoned to his final reward. The deep grief of 
the family bereft of a loving husband and father can not be described. Darwin H. 
Baker was born at Holly, New York, about April 1, 1832. His father was from 
Connecticut, and was born in 1793, whilehis mother was born in New York in 1797. 
He was the youngest of eight children, and the youngest of three brothers in this city, 
his other brothers in South Bend being Lester F., the oldest member of the family, 
and Albert N. , who had been a partner with our subject in the boot and shoe business 
since 1861. Darwin Baker was an apt student, and finished his education at the 
age of fifteen years, when he went to Akron, Ohio, where he began his career in the 
boot and shoe trade, in which he continued up to the time of his death. He and 
his brother, Lester F., were attracted westward, and in 1852 came to South Bend, 
Ind., where they had friends and acquaintances, and entered into the business in 
which Mr. Baker spent three-fourths of his busy life. Both had gone to the then 
comparatively insignificant but growing city of Chicago, to look up business chances 
there, and had been offered land in what is to-day the best location in that city, but 
decided at last to cast their lot in South Bend. Mr. Baker often remarked that in 
not going to Chicago he had missed a grand opportunity, as there was a splendid 
field then opening up in that city. But South Bend was greatly the gainer and Mr. 
Baker became at once one of that city's busiest, most enterprising and public- 
spirited citizens. Success was with him from the start, and most earnestly did he 
labor to deserve and win that success. In the spring of 1857 he was united in 
marriage to Miss Kate Roberts, who survives the death of her husband to whom she 
was devotedly attached, and in whose success in life she had so greatly assisted. 
To them were born three children, who survive a kind, loving and indulgent father. 
They are: William R., Alice M. and Lizzie. Soon after coming to South Bend Mr. 
Baker identified himself with the First Methodist Church. From the start he was 
an active member and one whose abilities were ere long recognized in his appoint- 
ment to an official position as steward of tbe First Methodist Episcopal Church in 
1864, and trustee in September, 1879. He was for along period recording steward 
and then became treasurer of the church, which position he faithfully filled up to 
life's close. He was an official member twenty-seven years and his farsightedness 
and able financial management has been a prominent factor in the success of the 
church of his choice. Mr. Baker was deeply interested in Sunday-school work and 
for a long term of years had served as teacher of the Bible class, which had, during 
Mr. Baker's connection with it as teacher, contained many of our leading citizens in' 
its membership. The deceased had a wide knowledge of the Scriptures which abun- 
dantly fitted him for the position. InchurchoroutMr. Baker was a considerate and con- 
sistent Christian. His able labors and valuable experience have been greatly missed 
by the First Methodist Episcopal Church. Besides his regular duties in the general 
business and as an official member of the church, Mr. Baker was one of the organiz- 
ers of the South Bend National Bank, which became one of the city's banking institu- 
tions in 1870. He was a director from the outset, being first associated with the late 
lamented John Brownfield, also ex-Mayor William Miller, Benjamin F. Price and 
Lucius G. Hubbard in that official capacity. Later he became vice president of the 
bank and on the retirement of the late John Brownfield succeede<l that gentleman as 
president, in which position he remained until the last. In this hanking institution 
Mr. Baker's splendid business facilities were often shown and duly recognized. He 
was also a director in the old State Bank. About 1882 the manifold duties of one 
of the trustees of the immense estate left by the late Mr. S. M. Beeson, of Niles, 
imposed great additional burdens upon an already very busy man. But this did not 
deter Mr. Baker from acceptingthe responsible trust placed upon his shoulders, and in 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 286 

this as in every other position the confidence shown in his ability as a sagacious busi- 
ness man was fully sustained in the able manner in which every duty was performed, 
every interest carefully guarded. He was a trustee of this estate to the last. Mr. 
Baker was a man of the highest degree of business ability and integrity. He was 
a success in all his undertakings. In 18G0 he built the residence now occupied by 
his widow on South Main street, and it was then without a superior and scarcely an 
equal in South Bend. The firm of D. H. Baker & Bro. have liuilt up an immense 
business in their line and have been at all times considered among the soundest of 
South Bend's business institutions. His life was, however, too busy a one for his 
own physical endurance. After a sudden sickness a few years ago, Mr. Baker was 
not himself, so far as health was concerned, but all this time his duties were uot 
lessening. Despite the fact that he had twoor three ordinary men's duties devolving 
upon him, necessarily wearing upon his physical condition, his intimate friends would 
never have thought him to be within a month of sixty years of age. Mr. Baker was 
one of South Bend's most prominent Democrats, but never a seeker for office. He 
has been greatly missed on both sieies. South Bend can ill afford to lose such a 
man. His son, William E. Baker, owes his nativity to South Bend, born October 
24, 1861, and received his education in the schools of that city. In 1880 he entered 
his father's store and has been actively engaged in the boot and shoe business since. 
After his father's death he became a director in the South Bend National Bank and 
is connected with this at the present time. He was married on March 27, 1888, to Miss 
Anna M. Vinson, a native of this county and the daughter of Charles and Elizabeth 
Vinson, old settlers of this vicinity. They have one child, Ada Lucile, born April 
27, 1889. Like his father he is a Democrat in politics, and socially he is a member 
of the K. of P., Crusade Lodge, No. 14. Mr. Baker is one of the prominent busi- 
ness men of the city and is as popular in social as in business circles. 

George H. Riddell. Few western cities of Indiana are more highly favored in 
respect to grocery establishments — in size, purity and general excellence of stock, 
etc. — than South Bend. Among the leading wholesale grocery establishments of 
this city is that of Riddell & Rieldell, which for the extent of its trade, the variety 
of its stock and the superiority of its goods, is entitled to more than ordinary 
prominence and recognition. Mr. George H. Riddell was born in St. Lawrence 
county, N. Y., July 23, 1856, and is a son of Robert and M. Jennie (Beckwith) 
Riddell, the former a native of Glasgow, Scotland, born in 1810, and the latter of 
York, England, born in 1812. The father came to the United States in 1833, 
settled in St. Lawrence county, N. Y., and was there engaged in the manufacture of 
cotton goods. He was also actively engaged in farming and the real estate busi- 
ness, and became quite wealthy. He died in St. Lawrence county in 1889, follow- 
ing to the grave his wife who died in that county in 1881. They were the parents 
of seven children, of whom George H. Riddell was the youngest. He remained and 
assisted his father on the farm until ten years of age, and supplemented a common 
education, received in the district schools, by attending the high schools of Ham- 
mond, N. Y. When eighteen years of age he went to Manchester, Iowa, and for 
four years was clerk in his brother's store. In 1879 he engaged in general mer- 
chandising at Newell, Iowa, continued there for five years, or until 1884, when he 
came to La Porte, Ind., and for three years was engaged in the dry goods business 
under the firm name of Alexander & Riddell. In 1887 he came to South Bend and 
engaged in the wholesale grocery business under the firm name of D. W. Russ & 
Co., thus continuing until 1891, when Mr. Russ died of consumption. Dwight W. 
Russ was one of the most successful and ))rominent wholesale grocers in South 
Bend, and was a man highly respected for his upright, honorable career. He was 
born in Indiana about 1839 and came to South Bend, from La Porte, Ind.. early 
in the sixties. He had lived a long time at La Porte, and began there in the gro- 
cery business, in which he continued up to the time of his death. He was first in 
business here under the firm name of Russ & Deal, and in after years the late Will 



286 PICTORIAL AND BIOGUAPUICAL 

Foote was associated with him in a storeroom jiist south of the Studebaker Carriage 
Works office. In 1885 he began in the wholesale grocery business on South Mich- 
igan street, nearly opposite his retail establishment, and two years later George H. 
Riddell became associated with him in the business, and is still with the firm. Mr. 
Russ left a wife and one daughter, the latter, Mrs. W. W. Worden, of this city. 
On account of failing health he had gone to New Mexico, but died there of con- 
sumption in March, 1891. His surviving brothers and sisters are: S. A. Russ, of 
this city; Eugene Russ, Three Oaks, Mich. ; Mrs. Robert Kern, Kansas City; Mrs. 
William Austin, Nashville, Kan.; Channcey, a half brother, at Hope, Dak., and 
Mrs. A. W. Calbreth, a half sister, at Rolling Prairie. Mr. Russ was a member of 
the Christian Church. He was one of the most active and successful business men. 
He had been in failing health for several years, but did not retire from active busi- 
ness until November, 1890, when his health required it. Since his death Mr. Rid- 
dell has continued the business tinder the firm name of Riddell & Riddell, and is 
doing a very extensive business, buying direct from the manufacturers. He was 
married in 1882 to Miss Alta M. Roe, of Chicago, but a native of La Porte, Ind. 
One child has blessed this union, James D. R. Politically Mr. Riddell is a Repub- 
lican, and in religion he is identified with the Presbyterian Church. He is one of 
the leading business men of the city. 

LoDis H. Van Dinter. Mishawaka, Ind. The Van Dinter Pipe Organ Factory 
is the only pipe organ factory in the State of Indiana, and is well known, having 
built some of the largest organs in the West. Mr. Van Dinter has a high reputation 
in his profession. He is from Holland ancestry, his father having been a noted 
organ builder in Holland, and the family of his mother were organ builders who 
resided many years in the town of Weert, Limburg, Holland. The maternal an- 
cestor of our subject. Hubert Ver Meulen, was an old organ builder in Holland, 
having inherited his business from his father. The grandfather built as many as 
fifty large and fine organs in Holland, was famous in his day and was renowned for 
his skill and workmanship, and organs of liis make are still in use in many Holland 
churches at the present time. Many of these instruments are more than a century 
old. Mr. Van Dinter has the drawings of the front of an organ, built by his grand- 
father which shows a great amount of ornamentation. The grandfather lived to be 
eighty years of age, was a land owner and a member of the Catholic Church. 
Mathew H. Van Dinter, the father of our subject, was born December 25, 1821, and 
was well educated, speaking three languages: Dutch, French and German. He 
partly learned the trade of organ builder from his father, whose name was Francis 
Van Dinter, of Limburg, Holland, the family being a noble and wealthy one of 
that province. He was ruined by the Napoleon wars and thus became a repairer, 
and a tuner of organs. Mathew H. Van Dinter, his sou, further learned the trade 
of manufacturing organs, of Hubert Ver Meulen, afterward married his daughter, 
Elizabeth, and as his father-in-law had no son, remained with him many years. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Van Dinter were born six children: Louis H. , Frank, John, Charles, 
Alphonso and Theresa. In 1871 Mr. Van Dinter came to America and located in 
Detroit, where he began the manufacture of organs, being the first one engaged in 
that business in that city. Here he continued five years and then sold out to his 
son, Louis, and retired from business, still living in Detroit, where he is a devout 
member of the Catholic Church and a much respected citizen. Louis Van Dinter, 
son of the above and our subject, was born in the town of Weert, Holland, February 
20, 1851, received a good education, speaking, reading and writing four languages, 
these Ijeing Dutch, German, French and English. He learned from his father and 
grandfather the principles of his business and became a skillful workman. In 1870 
he came to America, a young man of twenty, and engaged in work in the organ fac- 
tory of Henry Erban, a noted organ manufacturer, and thus gained many new ideas 
and saw how organs could be differently built. Six months later he came to Detroit 
and engaged in the tuning and repairing of organs. His father came the year after. 



MEmjIliS OF INDIANA. 287 

with liis family and together they began the manufacture of organs on their own 
account. After live years, Mr. Van Dinter bought bis father out and remained in 
Detroit until 1877, when he came to Mishawaka and established his business. He 
had previously built the organ in the Presbyterian Church and the one in the Cath- 
olic Church of that city and has since done a successful business, gaining a high 
reputation in the manufacturing of pipe organs. Mr. Van Dinter gives every organ 
his personal attention, especially the voicing being all done by himself, and his long 
experience, his skillful and artistic work enable him to command a good price. He 
has a fine record, having built more than tifty large organs, those at the following 
places testifying to his ability: St. Mary's Church, Fort Wayne, Ind., at a cost of 
16,000; St. John's Baptist Church, at Joliet, 111., at a cost of $5,000; St. Peter's 
Cathedral at Marquette, Mich., at an expense of $4,000; St. Vincent's at Elkhart, 
Ind.; St. Peter's at La Porte; St. Joseph's at Mishawaka, Ind. ; St. Albert's at 
Detroit, Mich. ; Sacred Heart, at Detroit; Our Lady of Help, at Detroit; St. John's 
at Jackson, Mich.; Sacred Heart, at Hudson, Mich.; St. Mary's atSaultSte. Marie, 
Mich. ; Immaculate Conception, at Niles, Mich. ; Holy Cross, at Marine City, Mich. ; 
Church of the Immaculate Conception, at Louisville, Ky. ; St. Catherine's Church 
at New Haven, Ky.. and St. Francis, at HoIIandtown, Wis. His work is in a great 
measure for the Catholic Churches, but he does much also in Protestant Churches, his 
contracts being as many as he is able to fill. He manufactures every part of an 
organ except the metal pipes, using the best of material. He is much respected in 
Mishawaka and the citizens recognize their indebtedness to him for introducing a 
new industry in their midst. He has accumulated a handsome property, his real 
estate in Detroit being valued at $15,000, while his residence and a house and lot 
on Fourth street, in Mishawaka are valued at $5,000; besides he is owner of his 
extensive factory l)uildings. In 1S74 Mr. Van Dinter married Mary, only daughter 
of Francis and Virginia (Matyn) Pletz. Mr. Pletz was born in Belgium, married 
there and came to America in 1856. He was a merchant tailor in Detroit and a 
successful business man and now is living with Mr. Van Dinter. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Van Dinter were born the following children: Mamie, Louis Jr., Charlotte (who died 
at the age of eight years). Rose, Theophilus, Josephine, Elizabeth and John. Both 
Mr. and Mrs. Van Dinter are members of the Catholic Church. Politically he affil- 
iates with the Democratic party, and is one of the best citizens of Mishawaka, es- 
teemed by every one and recognized as an artist in his profession. 

Cr.EM S*eiiEBAKER, South Bend, Ind. The manufacture of wagons and car- 
riages is carried on to some extent in almost every village and hamlet in this country. 
In some cities there are plants of great magnitude which produce enormous numbers 
of vehicles, but there is but one Studebaker Bros. Manufacturing Company. Their 
buildings have double the extent of any other works of the kind in the world, and 
there is no other concern in existence which has such splendid facilities for the pro- 
duction and sale of buggies, carriages and wagons. Clem Studebaker was born in 
Adams couaty, Penri., March 12, 1831, about six miles east of the locality afterward 
famous in history as the Gettysbuig battle field. When four years old, the family 
emigrated to Ashland county, Ohio, which was before the days of railroads, and they 
crossed the Alleghany Mountains in a wagon built })y John Studebaker, the father. 
The subject of this sketch passed his youthful days in and near Ashland, where the 
father followed the calling of a blacksmith and wagon maker, and in the primitive 
Studebaker shop of that day he taught his sons to make wagons and to make them 
the best. In 1850 Clem Studebaker removed to South Bend, Ind., where he taught 
a country school during the winter of 1850-1. In the spring of the latter year he 
found employment in the blacksmith department of the works at South Bend for 
the manufacture of threshing machines, receiving his board and 50 cents a day as 
wages. He reached the town with a cash capital of $2, but by careful saving, in 
February, 1852, he was enabled to start in business for himself with his elder 
brother, Henry, as a partner. They began blacksmithing on Michigan street, 



288 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

immediately uorth of the present postofiSce, and their account of stock embraced two 
sets of blacksmith tools, and cash to the amount of $68. Here they shod horses, 
did general repair work and at off hours managed during the year to build two 
Studebaker wagons. They bought their iron and other materials of local dealers, 
and there are residents in South Bend who well remember seeing these ambitious 
workers blowing the bellows, plying the hammer at the anvil, carrying supplies of 
iron from the hardware store to their blacksmith shop, and, in general, performincr 
every task, however, laborious or menial, for the operation of their business. The 
present great Studebaker factories iu South Bend, the works and repository in Chi- 
cago, and branches in various cities of the Union, are the outgrowth from the little 
Michigan street blacksmith shop in which work was first begun a little over forty 
years ago. Like the tall oak this giant grew from a little seed. In the main office 
of the works may be seen an oil painting which with great vividness portrays a 
log shop, while a board sign on the shop reads " John Studebaker, blacksmith." 
The energy of the members of the fix'm brought them success and notwithstanding 
that their works were twice destroyed by fire they prospered. The name of Stude- 
baker Bros, in connection with the manufacture of wagons and carriages has been 
heralded throughout the civilized world, and yet comparatively few persons 
have any conception of the magnitude of the institution. The plant occupied by 
the wagon manufacturing interest covers eighty acres of ground, the flooring 
capacity of the building proper measuring thirty-four acres. The mere front- 
age of the factory buildings on the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, 
and on Lafayette and Tutt streets, makes an unbroken line of half a mile in length, 
although many of the most considerable factory buildings are not included in this 
frontage. The buildings are of brick, mostly four stories in height, and add greatly 
to the architectural l)eauty of the southern part of the city. The wagon works 
include the old plant, which has been in use for years, together with additions 
more or less extensive made each year since. In the various departments may be 
seen nearly 700 machines of different kinds which are running by power furnished 
by engines, two of them aggregating 700 horse-power, and two batteries of boilers 
of 1,000 horse-power, under which is burned crude oil with steam jet, and the refuse 
matter from the wood shops which is carried in by air blast. In a walk through the 
various shops the visitor may see welding by electricity: a trip-hammer department, 
where forgings of all kinds are made. There is a plumbing department, a pattern 
shop, and a room where such plating as they need in gold, silver, or nickel is done. 
At one end of the room is the steel skein works, where the Studebaker patent steel 
skein is produced in enormous quantities, both for their own use and for the trade. 
In the wood shops may be seen enormous stocks of wood in all stages of preparation 
for use in a wagon, and the lumber yards contain the largest stock of hard wood 
lumber of all kinds in the country. All the wood is thoroughly seasoned from 
two to four years. Many special machines may be seen in the various departments, 
which do the work of hundreds of hands. Iron is secured from the great manu- 
facturing districts of Pennsylvania and Ohio, the average amount used being some 
twenty tons daily. From two to four thousand pounds of steel are daily used in the 
different departments which require this article. The electric light plant con- 
sists of one large engine of 250-horse power, and six dynamos, two for welding 
and four supplying the current to 200 Thompson-Houston 2,000 candle power arc 
lights. In addition there is a dynamo for supplying the machine shops and offices 
with 250 sixteen-candle power incandescent lights. Electricity is also the silent moni- 
tor of the watchman's faithfulness, and the fireman's activity. The company has a 
thoroughly organized fire brigade of itsown, consisting of thirty or forty men, who are 
regularly drilled in their work. A number of the fire brigadesleep inthe hose house, 
and the men can get a stream of water on a fire in three minutes at any hour of 
the day or night. They have numerous other plants besides those mentioned, all of 
which are supplied with the very latest and most approved machinery. This mam- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 289 

moth establishment gives employment to about 1,500 men. Besides their South 
Bend works they have a factory and repository at Nos. 203, 204, 205 and 206 Michi- 
gan avenue, Chicago, where they enploy a battery of boilers of 1,000-horse power, 
an engine of lOO-horse power, a 45-Hrc light dynamo, and 125 incandescent lights. 
In consequence of the eminent success achieved by the brothers, a personal mention 
will not be out of place. They are men who exercise cool and deliberate judgment, 
tempered with sterling sense, and are industrious and keenly observant. They 
have the faculty while making the rounds of the works to take in the full scope 
and intent of everything over which their eyes have range. They are forward and 
liberal in giving aid to public enterprises, and in the support of churches, charities 
and other agencies for good. Many of the most attractive buildings in the city have 
been erected by them. Their sales are made in every State and Territory of the 
Union as well as in many foreign countries, and the company has 1,500 agencies 
and a large force of traveling men. The officers are Clem Studebaker, president, 
who has held the office since its organization as a stock concern in 1868; J. M. 
Studebaker, vice-president; R. E. Studebaker, second vice-president and treasurer 
(in charge of the Chicago house), and George M. Studebaker, secretary. Clem Stude 
baker has filled many positions of trust, usefulness and honor, public and private, 
and has for many years been a member of the New York book concern of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, to the general conference of which church he has twice 
been a lay delegate. He has twice been a delegate in national Republican conven- 
tions. He was a United States commissioner for Indiana to the Paris Exposition; 
to the New Orleans Exposition, and is now president of the Indiana Board of World's 
Fair Managers. He has l)een president of the Carriage Builders' National Associa- 
tion and a member of that body since its organization, and was one of the 
ten delegates appointed by President Harrison to represent the United States in the 
Pan-American Congress at Washington during the winter of 1889-90. He is also a 
member of the board of trustees in De Pauw University of Indiana, and a member of 
the board of managers of Chautauqua. When it is further remembered that he 
gives constant oversight and direction to the home office of the Studebaker Bros. 
Manufacturing Co. of South Bend, and to the general affairs of the company, it 
will be seen that he furnishes another illustration of the fact that the men who are 
busiest in the conduct of their private affairs, are those who can best be depended 
upon to find leisure for important work claiming the attention of the patriot and 
philanthropist. 

William N. Schindler is the principal owner of the St. Joseph Mills, is a 
thorough master of his calling and is in every respect one of the substantial citizens 
of Mishawaka. He was born in Buffalo, N. Y., May 20, 1857, his father being 
Andrew Schindler (see sketch of John J. Schindler). He received an excellent edu- 
cation in his youth, first attending the common schools, then St. Frances Seminary 
near Milwaukee, Wis. When about fifteen years of age he came to Mishawaka, aud 
when about nineteen years of age he began learning the miller's trade under his 
uncles, Kuhn Bros., who built the St. Joseph Mills, in 1861. On July 5. 1883, he 
embarked in the milling business with his brother John J., becoming the joint 
owners of the St. Joseph Mills, since which time they have greatly improved it by 
putting in the improved roller process as well as other valuable machinery. By 
industry and attention to business this firm prospered, and although they began 
with a heavy indebtedness, this has been paid off and they are now doing a business 
which is in every way satisfactory to them and their numerous patrons. The mill 
has a fine water power, being so situated that it has an eight-foot fall, which renders 
it one of the best mill properties in northern Indiana, and in the hands of its ener- 
getic manager it will develop to its fullest extent. January 8, 1889, Mr. Schindler 
took for his wife Miss Marie A. CEchtering, daughter of Clement CEchtering, of 
Hanover, Germany, she being a sister of Rev. Father J. H. CEchtering, of Ft. 
Wayne, Ind. Mr. Schindler has always been a Republican up to the Harrison ad- 



290 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

miaistratiou, when for several conscientious reasons he went over to the Democratic 
party. He has always been a devout member of the Catholic Church. He is secre- 
tary of the building committee of the new St. Joseph Catholic Church and handles 
all the funds and makes all disbursements. The church has been in process of 
erection for the past two years and will cost $36,000 exclusive of the windows and 
furniture. The whole cost will amount to about $50,000, and will, when finished, 
be the finest building of the kind in the northern part of the State. This structure 
will be a credit to the building committee and to the Catholic people of Mishawaka. 
Its appearance is most tasteful and picturesque and a fine tower rising gracefully to 
a grand height is well proportioned and presents a beautiful appearance. Mr. Schind 
ler is one of the most wide-awake, enterprising and successful business men of St. 
Joseph county, and throughout a long business career his good name has never been 
assailed. Mr. Schindler, besides being interested in the St. Joseph Milling Company, 
of which he is president and treasurer, is also interested in several other enterprises 
throughout the State which are all bringing him handsome returns. He is well 
liked by all people who have the pleasure of making his acquaintance, either socially 
or in business, and is held in high esteem by his fellow-citizens. 

Chbi8TI.\n Stahly. Among the honored and wealthy pioneers of Union township, 
Elkhart county, Ind., is Christian Stahly, who resides one-half mile north of Nap- 
pauee. His many years of hard labor have been rewarded with abundant means and 
he is uoiv in the enjoyment of a comfortable income. He was one of four brothers 
and one sister, all of whom were born in Germany, sons of Henry and Barbara 
(Sumner) Stahly, the former of whom was also born in Germany in 1750, or about 
that time. He was a farmer by occupation and followed this calling up to the day 
of his death, which occurred in his native land in 1825. He was a man of means, 
a member of the Amish Church, and a man of strict integrity of character. He was 
married twice, his first wife bearing him one child, Magdaliue. The mother of the 
subject of this sketch was born in Wiseburg, in Germany, in 1770, and died in Indi- 
ana at the home of her son, having, after the death of the husband and father, 
cared for her five children and one step-child. She left Kaiserslautern, Germany, 
for this c juntry in the month of August, 1835, landed at New York City, but 
removed soon after to Stark county, Ohio, where they remained during the winter, 
then took up their residence in Wayne county, of the same State. All the mem- 
bers of this family: John. Catherine, Henry and Jacob, were weavers and worked at 
this trade in Ohio; Christian was a farmer. John, the eldest son, came from Ger- 
many about 1830. which was about five years before the rest of the family turned 
their footsteps thither. The subject of this sketch was born in July, 1820, in Ger- 
many, and iu 1835 moved with his mother, three brothers and one sister to America. 
On February 3, 18-12, he was married to Fanny Hansauer in Wayne county. Ohio, 
and the same year moved to Elkart county, Ind. He entered eighty acres of land for 
himself and a like amount for his brother. Jacob, in Elkhart county, all of which was 
located on Section 3 1 . and here he set energetically to work to improve his land and lay 
by means for a rainy day. His wife was a daughter of Peter and Mariah (Keck) 
Hansauer, native Germans who came to this country in an early day (1817) and were 
among the pioneers of Wayne county, Ohio. There the father was called from life 
in 1857, but the mother paid the last debt of nature at the home of the subject of 
this sketch in Elkhart county, Ind., in 1866, having become the mother of ten chil- 
dren, nine of whom are living: Moses. Peter, Jacob, Martin, Christian, Matty, 
Mary, Fany and Anna. Mrs. Stahly was born in Ohio, August 27, 1822, and she 
and her husband. Christian Stahly, who is one of the oldest pioneers of his section, 
are residing on the farm of 187 acres on which they first settled and which is 
one of the oldest farms in the township. Their children are as follows: Peter, born 
October 30, 1842; Barbara, born February 22, 1844; Jacob, born July 3, 1845 and 
died June 3, 1867; John, born September 23, 1846; Anna M. , born December 7, 
1847, and died November 7, 1855; Moses, born July 27, 1849; Magdaline, born 




^ '^^^r^.Jr:^ 



MEMOIRS OF JNDIAXA. 293 

November 10, 1851; SolomoQ, born July 17, 1853; Catherine, bora November 16, 
1854, and died April 20, 1861; Levi, born February 3, 1856, and died April 28, 1858; 
and Samuel, born February 29, 1858. When Mr. Stahly settled in this county it 
was a wilderness, and in a few years all the members of this family had arrived in 
Elkhart county, where, like the thrifty Germans that they were, they set about 
securing means with which to keep the wolf from the door, and eventually became 
well-to-do citizens. On his laud Christian Stahly built him a little log cabin, but 
while this was in process of erection had to live in his wagon — a period of about 
three weeks. He came by ox team to this county and although the journey was slow 
and tedious and their future uncertain, they were hopeful for the future, for they 
were in the enjoyment of good health and possessed unbounded energy — attributes 
which go far toward accomplishing a desired object. During their first winter's 
residence some progress was made in clearing the land immediately about their cabin 
home, and the family was supplied with meat by Mr. Stahly's trusty rifle. During 
his early struggles with adversity he worked out by the day for some time, and 
although this was a slow way of accumulating means, it was much better than 
remaining idle. In time his efforts were prospered. As a farmer he has been decidedly 
successful and is in every respect a self-made man, for he began with little means 
and is now in good circumstances. He became the owner of a large amount of real 
estate, the most of which he has given to his children, reserving for himself only a 
sufficient amount to keep him in comfort the remainder of his days. Politically he 
supports the Republican party and to every enterprise tending to benefit the 
section in which he resides he gives substantial aid. His son, Peter, married Eliza- 
beth Smoker and is living on a farm near Stutgart, Ark. He has the following chil- 
dren: Barbara, Manasses, Jessie, Adam and Fanny living, and Mattie and Chauncey 
deceased. Barbara was married to Daniel Metzler and has the following children: 
John, Jonas, Lizzie, Mary, David, Jessie, Fannie, Daniel, who died, and Anna. 
Daniel Metzler died in 1878. Barbara then married Johnas Stineman in 1885. 
Jacob Stahly died at the age of twenty-one years; John was married to Elizabeth 
Johns, is residing in La Grange county, Ind., and is the father of nine children: 
Daniel, Christian, Samuel, John, Mary, Fannie, Elizabeth, Levi and Catherine. 
Moses, the next child of Mr. Stahly, is living in Reno county, Kan., is married to 
Mary Nisely and has these children: Mattie, Emeline, Fannie, Abraham, Bessie, Alice 
and Ezra. Magdaline married Yostel Yoder, lives in Kosciusko county on a farm 
and has eight children: Israel, Fannie, Christian, Elizabeth, Moses, Levi, Rudolph, 
Mahala, living, and Jonas and an infant deceased. Solomon married Sarah Nisley 
and has five children living: Amanda, Andy (died), Saloma, Samuel (died), Daniel, 
Jessie and Enos. Samuel married Minny Ward and has one child. Fern. Henry, 
the brother of Christian Stahly, came to this county in 1846 and settled on the 
land on which Nappanee now stands. Like his brother he was a substantial citizen 
and the name of Stahly will long be honored throughout Elkhart county. 

Peter H. Stahly is a prominent farmer living about one mile north of Nappanee, 
in Locke township, Elkhart Co., Ind., and is a son of one of the very early pio- 
neers, Henry Stahly, who is still living on the old homestead just north of Nap- 
panee. Henry Stahly was born in Germany in 1809, and is a brother of Christian 
Stahly, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. He came to this country in early 
life, and after residing for some time in Ohio, became a resident of Elkhart county, 
Ind., in 1846. He was married in Germany to Magdaline (Ehresman) Johnson, a 
widow with one child, John, and with them he came to this country, and settled first 
in Stark county, Ohio, afterward in Wayne county, and finally in Elkhart county, 
Ind. His first tract of land comprised eighty acres north of Nappanee, but he 
afterward became the owner of the land on which Nappanee now stands, and tilled 
that soil successfully for many years. He and his wife (who died in 1879) were 
members of the Amish Mennonite Church, and in that faith reared their children, 
whose names are here given: Barbara, who married John Ringenberg, and is now 



29i PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

deceased; Mary, who is now the widow of T. J. Yoder, and is a resident of Indi- 
ana; Christian H., who is living east of Nappanee; Magdaline, who married Andrew 
Bliley, is deceased; Henry H., lives east of Nappanee; Peter H., the subject of 
this sketch, who is living one mile north of Nappanee; Simon, who is also living 
north of Nappanee, and Daniel, who still makes his home with his father. Mr. and 
Mrs. Stahly also reared her son by her tirst marriage, John Johnson. Peter 
H. Stahly, the sixth child of Henry Stahly, was born November 24, 1847, in Elk- 
hart county, and was reared on the farm on which the town of Nappanee, lud., 
now stands. He obtained his education in the district schools near his home, dur- 
ing the winter months, and like all farmer's boys, assisted on the farm during the 
summer, after he had attained an age where his services would be valuable. At the 
age of twenty-one years he started to do for himself, and for three years worked in 
the saw-mill belonging to John King, and in 1873 began tilling the soil on rented 
land on Elkhart Prairie. In 1875 he bought the farm where he now lives, and the 
following year took up his residence thereon, and this land he has tilled with suc- 
cess ever since. His farm consists of 120 acres, and the most of it has been cleared 
through his own efforts. He has a commodious and handsome residence, a good 
barn for his grain and stock, good granaries and outbuildings of all descriptions. 
He does a general line of farming, and is quite extensively engaged in raising 
horses and cattle, which he has found to be a profitable source of revenue. Like 
his father before him he is a member of the Amish Mennonite Church, and is also 
interested in church and school matters, as well as all other enterprises of an ele- 
vating and worthy nature. He is considered hj all to be one of the most public- 
spirited of men, and is regarded as one of the tirst citizens of his section. He 
supports the principles of the Republican party, but has not been an aspirant for 
public preferment. He was first married in 1872, to Catherine Yoder, who was 
born in Wayne county, Ohio, in 1846, a daughter of Joseph Yoder and his wife, 
Mariah (Farnwald) Yoder. She was reared in Ohio, and was one of a family of 
ten children: Emanuel, born September 11, 1834; Joseph, born January 26, 1840; 
Henry, born September 15, 1844; Solomon, born December 11, 1851, died young; 
Joseph, died in Tennessee during the war; Anna, born May 27, 1836; Barbara, 
December 10, 1837; Mariah, born August 28, 1842; Catherine, born August 29, 
1846; Fannie, born February 5, 1849, and Susan, born July 24, 1854. Mr. Stahly 
was called from life June 16, 1877, having become the mother of two children: 
Frank, who was born August 18, 1873, and now assists his father on the farm, and 
Ida, who was born February 15, 1875. The mother of these children was a mem- 
ber of the Amish Mennonite Church the most of her life, was an earnest Christian, 
a kind and careful mother, a devoted wife and a faithful friend. In 1878 Mr. 
Stahly married Fannie, the sister of his first wife, her birth having occurred in 
Wayne county, Ohio, February 5, 1849. Joseph and Mariah Yoder were from 
Pennsylvania, but of German descent, and after leaving their native State, they first 
settled in Ohio, and were married in Waynecounty, where the father was called from 
life in 1886, and where his widow is still residing. Mr. Stahly's present wife is 
also a member of the church, and in that faith they will endeavor to rear their chil- 
dren, who are as follows: Cora, born October 1, 1881; Nora, born August 22, 1883; 
Ervin, born September 12, 1885, and Iva, born August 11, 1888. Mr. Stahly, at 
the present time, has one of the finest farms in the county, if not in northern Indi- 
ana, a result of earnest toil, persistent effort and sound judgment. Joseph Yoder 
and Mariah Farmwald were married in Ohio, November 5, 1833, the latter being a 
daughter of John and Anna (Wagler) Farnwald, both of whom were born in Ger- 
many, were married in the old country, and in 1818 came to America and became 
residents of Wayne county, Ohio, where they reared a family, tilled the soil, and 
later moved to Iowa, when it was a new country, and there spent the remainder of 
their days. Their children were as follows: John, Adam, David, Magdaline, Bar- 
bara, Elizabeth, Catherine, Mariah and Fannie, the last two being the only members 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 295 

of the family living. Joseph Yoder was born in 1801, iu Summit county, Penn., of 
Solomon and Barbara (Miller) Yoder. The latter couple, moving with their family 
to Wayne county, Ohio, and after a residence of about thirty years, came to Elk- 
hart county, and were here called from life, he at the advanced age of ninety-one 
years, ten months and tweuty-seven days, and she at the age of eighty-four years, 
ten months and two days. To them eight children were born: Yost, Joseph, Peter, 
Adam, Susan, Leah, Elizabeth and Rachel. 

Henry D. Higgins, Mishawaka, Ind. Our subject is one of the old settlers of 
Mishawaka, who was born on a farm iu Onondaga county, N. Y., March 15, 1822. 
His father, William Higgins, was born in New Haven, Conn., and descended from 
one of three brothers who came to America in old colonial days, from England, and 
settled in Connecticut, one of the three selecting Massachusetts as his location, and 
the other the State of Maine. Darius Higgins, grandfather of our subject, was a 
painter by trade, and passed all of his life in New Haven. His son, William, was 
taken to the State of New York by one of his uncles, was there reared, but received 
very limited schooling. He learned the trade of wagon making, and also was prac- 
tically taught farming. He married Hannah Willard, a widow, who had been a 
Miss Avery, of Onondago county, N. Y. , and they were the parents of six children, 
as follows: Perleyette, Delphiua, Henry D., Lucy, Phoebe and Maria. Mr. Higgins 
owned a small farm in Onondago county, and here passed all of his life, having 
served his country in the War of 1812. Politically he was a Democrat at the time 
of his death, which occurred at the age of seventy-four years, but he had formerly 
been an old line Whig. He was an honorable, industrious man, much respected. 
Henry D. Higgins, son of the above, and our subject, received a common school 
education and learned the trade of carpenter. He went to Oswego county, N. Y., 
and there married Nancy Barnes, daughter of Charles and Susan (Spofford) Barnes. 
Charles Barnes was a farmer, owning his land, and passed all of his days upon hie 
farm, living to the age of sixty-nine years. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. 
His family consisted of the following children: Sophia, Ann and Everett. Two 
weeks after marriage, in 1846, Mr. Higgins moved to Mishawaka and engaged in the 
painting business, doing all branches of it, as houses, signs, carriages, etc. He then 
opened up in the jewelry business, and was one of the first in this line in Mishawaka, 
so continuing for many years, until failing health forced him to retire from active 
life. For fifteen years he drove a jewelry wagon throughout the county and sold 
jewelry, clocks, etc. Socially, Mr. Higgins is a member of I. O. O. F. Mrs. 
Higgins was a member of the Methodist Church, but her death occurred in 1892. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Higgins were born three children, Sarah; Charles, who died at the 
age of twenty-three years; and Susie. Mr. Higgins has always been a respected 
and indu.strious citizen, and has accumulated a substantial property. He owns his 
residence and also land in Charlevoix county, Mich. He has always attended 
strictly to his own business, and by thrift and industry has made his property. His 
daughters are happily married and settled, Sarah marrying Joseph De Lovinger, a 
jeweler, has three children and resides iu Mishawaka, and Susie married Martin V. 
Beiger, president of the Mishawaka Woolen Manufacturing Company. Mr. Higgins 
is a stanch Republican, was a strong anti-slavery man, and a Union man during the 
late war. He has been shown great confidence in his lodge, having held the ofBces 
of noble grand, secretary and treasurer, besides holding the minor ofiices. He is a 
temperance man also, and is a member of the organization of Sons of Temperance. 

John C. Mellinger, who is one of the substantial citizens of Elkhart county, 
Ind. , belongs to that army of intelligent, persevering, courageous people, who have 
gone forth from the State of their birth to build up new industrial empires in vari- 
ous portions of the West. Although of American parentage, he is of English and 
German descent, and has inherited the dogged perseverance of the former, and the 
energy, thrift and integrity of the latter race of people, attributes which were the 
stepping-stones to the prosperity which he now enjoys, and which have been the 



296 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPEIGAL 

means of placing many a struggling young man in au independent financial position. 
Mr. Mellinger is, as was his father, Melchor Mellinger, a product of Mahoning 
county, Ohio, where he was born in 1849, and his boyhood was spent in the usual 
style of his day, his summers being devoted to assisting his father on the home farm 
and his winters to attending a few months' term of school. Melchor Mellinger's 
advent into this world was in the year 1805, and in Mahoning coimty he was reared 
and educated and became familiar with farming in his boyhood days. He later 
learned carpentering, which he followed in connection with tilling the soil the greater 
portion of his life. In early life he married Elizabeth Gulp, and by her became the 
father of a large family of children, eight in number living, although ten were born 
to them: Mary, who died at about the age of fifty-live years, was first married to 
Tobias Yoder and secondly to Joseph Bixler, becoming the mother of one child by 
Yoder, and three children by Bixler, her second husband (her child, Malinda Yoder, 
was a wife and mother in her thirteenth year, was married to John Bixler, her 
marriage taking place at the age of twelve years, which is an occurrence never 
before known in the United States); Henry C, a lumberman of West Virginia, is 
married and is the father of six children ; Jacob, a farmer of Mahoning county, 
Ohio, has a family of nine children; Samuel C. is a lumber merchant, and conducts 
a saw and planing-mill at Leetonia, Columbiana Co., Ohio, having four children of 
which two are dead; Elizabeth is now the Widow Stafford, and is residing in Mahon- 
ing county with her two living children, two others having died; Daniel is a lumber 
and planing-mill man of Salem, Ohio, and is the father of four children; Melchor died 
in infancy; Magdaline also died young; John C. is a well-known resident of Nappanee, 
Ind. , and Noah, who resides two miles from Nappanee, in Locke township, is a farmer, 
and has a wife and four children living and one dead. He has been a resident of 
Elkhart county since 1888. and from the first has occupied a high position in the 
estimation of the people throughout that section. Elizabeth (Culp) Mellinger, the 
mother of the above mentioned children, was a native of Mahoning county, born in 
1810, and died in her native county in 1889, an earnest member of the Mennonite 
Church, as was her husband, who died in 1888, at which time he left a comfortable 
fortune, as well as an unblemished name, as a heritage to his children. The pater- 
nal grandfather, who also bore the name of Melchor, was among the early pioneers 
of Mahoning county, Ohio, where he followed the honorable, useful and independ- 
ent life of the farmer, and reared a family of eleven children, all of whom married 
and reared families of their own, but seven of them are now deceased. There were 
seven boys and four girls in this family and their descendants are scattered through- 
out many of the States of the Union. The maternal grandparents, Henry and 
Elizabeth (Klepper) Culp, were from Virginia, and Mr. Culp came of sturdy German 
stock. He was a farmer and lived to be eighty years of age, dying in the sixties. 
Although John C. Mellinger was denied the privilege of a liberal education, he 
applied himself in a sufficiently earnest manner to his books, when opportunity 
offered, and at the age of twenty years, when he started to make his own way in the 
world, he was well fitted to fight the battle of life successfully. The occupation of 
carpentering occupied his attention until 1873, when, in company withB. F. Myers, 
he left his native county and came to Elkhart county, Ind., and in the village of 
Nappanee started a saw-mill, which was the first erected in the neighborhood. In 
the spring of 1875 he purchased Mr. Myer's interest in the establishment which he 
continued alone for one year following. At this time J. B. and Frank Coppes, 
became his associates in business, and the firm became known as J. C. Mellinger & 
Co. , and continued as such until 1879, when Samuel Coppes entered the firm. In 1882 
Mr. Mellinger disposed of his interest in this establishment, after which he began 
devoting his attention to dealing in grain, but finding it not sufficiently profitable, 
discontinued it at the end of one year. In 1885 he identified himself with the 
Farmers' & Traders' Bank, in which he has been one of the tellers since that time. 
In this, as in every other position he has filled, he has shown himself to be a man 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 897 

of excellent abilities, who has worked hard — not only because work was a necessity 
with him, but also because it was a pleasure — and whatever he has accumulated in 
the way of worldly goods has been acquired through persistent labor. He has been 
successful in all his business ventures, for his sound judgment has ever been his aid 
and guide, and upon everything to which he has devoted his attention he has left 
the impress of his personality and the marks of study and thought. He owns a 
half interest in the tile and brick factory which is known as Delotter & Co., 
which manufactures large quantities of drain tile and building brick. This estab- 
lishment gives employment to about fifteen men, and are shipping their goods to 
various points in the vicinity as well as to various localities in the East. Mr. Mel- 
linger is the owner of some land throughout the county, and, financially, is well-to- 
do. On the 4th of August, 1870, he was married, in Elkhart county, to Lucinda 
Coppes, a daughter of Jacob Coppes, and to them four children were born: Ella I., 
born in 1871, is the wife of Harvey Banter, by whom she has three children; Sarah 
E., who died at the age of fifteen months; Emma, who resides with her parents, 
and Jeanette also. Mr. Mellinger and his family are members of the German Bap- 
tist Church, and in politics his good judgment has led him to uphold the Repub- 
lican party. He is treasurer of the town of Nappanee, held the office of county 
commissioner, in 1884 and again in 1886, resigning the position in 1887. A typical 
business man, he sustains the part of a citizen admirably. Although the foregoing 
is but a meager outline of a busy and useful life, it nevertheless teaches a useful 
lesson. To those who can gauge character from events, even this is sufficient to 
show that Mr. Mellinger is a talented business man, and a leader in the section in 
which he resides. Nor is his full work yet done, as those who know him best look 
upon this much as but a preparation for even better work in the future. His judg- 
ment is sound on questions of paramount importance, and he has no faith in any 
road to success not made by individual effort, and is a firm believer iu the old saying 
that "There is no royal road to fortune." He has no faith in the value of a result 
not reached by independent research, and his own attainments are due to laborious 
application, and even his education, which is sound and comprehensive, has been 
acquired without the advantage of more than a very limited school training. 

Dr. C. a. Dadgheety. Perhaps no member of the medical fraternity in South 
Bend enjoys a more extensive practice or is more widely known than the gentleman 
whose name introduces this sketch. He has built up a large practice by steady 
devotion to duty and the constant exercise of energy and judgment. He was born 
in Worcester, \Vayne Co., Ohio, November 23, 1850, but his parents, James and 
Ann E. (StaufFer) Daugherty, were Pennsylvanians. The family is of German and 
Irish stock, and the first of the family to come to America, settled in " Penn's 
Woodland." The parents of the subject of this sketch were united in marriage in 
Wayue county, Ohio, but removed from there to Defiance, Ohio, and in 1861 took 
up their residence in St. Joseph county, Ind. , where they have since resided. The 
father has efficiently filled the office of county sheriff, and is now in a like manner dis- 
charging the duties of county commissioner. He has a fine farm and a comfortable 
home in Pennsylvania township, where he reared three of the nine children born to 
him. Dr. C. A. Daugherty was fourteen years of age when he came to this county 
with his father and mother. He was first given the advantages of the public schools 
in the vicinity of his rural home, but afterward became a high-school pupil at 
Mishawaka and later a college student at Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, Mich. He 
assisted his father on the home farm until he began the study of medicine at the 
age of twenty-one years, and in 1873 he graduated from the Bennett Eclectic 
Medical College of Chicago. Immediately thereafter he located at Lakeville, Ind., 
for the practice of his profession, and during the four years that he remained there 
he acquired a good practice. He then entered the Indiana Medical College at 
Indianapolis, from which he was graduated in 1879, locating immediately there- 
after in South Bend, where he has been practicing continuously ever since, with the 



298 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

exception of a part of one year which was spent in traveling through Europe. 
While in Vienna he studied some special branches of his profession, his trip abroad 
being for this purpose, as well as sight-seeing, and he has since made a specialty of 
surgery, in which he is extremely proficient and skillful. Dr. Daugherty has built 
up a large and lucrative practice and has a handsome and finely furnished office in 
the Oliver Block. He is surgeon for the Chicago & Grand Trunk Eailroad, the 
Vandalia Eailroad and the Michigan Central. He was elected president of the 
city school board in 1883, and has held this office continuously ever since, haviug a 
short time since been elected for a term of three years. Politically he is a Democrat 
and socially belongs to the I. O. O. F. He was married in Lakeville, Ind., in May, 
1874, to Miss Julia Clay, by whom he has two children: Maud E., aged fourteen 
years and Helen F. , aged one year. Mrs. Daugherty is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

John McMichael, of Mishawaka, has long been retired from the active duties of 
life and is in the enjoyment of the respect of the community wherein he has long 
resided. He is a native of Northumberland county, Penn., where he was born Sep- 
tember 10, 1813, a son of John and Mary (McFee) McMichael, who were also 
Pennsylvanians and of Scotch-Irish descent. The grandfather, Alexander McMichael, 
crossed the ocean and settled in Pennsylvania, where he became a member of the 
continental army and participated in the Revolutionary war. Two members of the 
family were soldiers in the War of 1812. Alexander was a prominent merchant of 
the continental period and lived to be one hundred and eight years old, dying in 
Pennsylvania. His wife was blind for twenty years prior to her death. John 
McMichael, the father of him whose name heads this sketch, came west by wagons 
in 1833, crossing the black swamps near Cleveland, Ohio, and as there were very 
few bridges in those days he had to swim his horses across the Maumee River. He 
came to St. Joseph county, Ind., and located on Harris Prairie, where he purchased 
eighty acres of land. He erected a hewed-log house, the neighbors turning out for 
miles around to assist, and in this they lived until better improvements could be 
made. Their trading point at that time was Niles. Mich., and afterward Bert rand. 
In order to break sod he used the old wooden mold-board plow, to which were 
attached three yoke of oxen, and continued thus to till his land until better imple- 
ments were introduced. Their clothing was all home-made and the women folk 
were kept busy at the spinning wheel and loom, while the men were employed in 
cultivating and improving the land. The father died on Harris Prairie about 1843, 
and the mother near Edwardsburg, Mich. They were the parents of four sons and 
five daughters, only two of whom are living at the present time: John, whose name 
heads this sketch, and Margaret Dennis. James, who recently died, served through- 
out the Civil war in the Mulligan Brigade, Company F, Twenty-third Illinois. 
John McMichael, the subject of this sketch, was twenty years of age when he came 
to this country. He had received fair common-school advantages, and having been 
brought up to the occupation of farming he devoted his attention to this business 
upon starting out in life for himself. Early in the fifties he had charge of the 
warehouses on South Race, Mishawaka, where the boats landed, and he continued 
thus employed, in connection with buying wheat, stock, etc., for a number of years, 
during which time he did an extensive business and became widely known. He is 
known as one of the pioneers of St. Joseph county, for he has witnessed the growth 
of the country from its primitive condition to its present magnificent state of agri- 
cultural perfection. For a number of years past he has lived in retirement, and 
although still active, hale and hearty, he may be said to have earned his holiday. 
He was first married in 1837 to Miss Mary Lavelle, of Kentucky, who bore him 
thirteen children, of whom eight survive: William C. (clerk of St. Joseph county), 
Rachel (Stoy), John A., Alfred R., Margaret E., Adoniram B., Cora A. and James 
A. (a township clerk, Toledo, Ohio). Mr. McMichael's second marriage took place 
in 1869, Nancy A. Sisson becoming his wife. She was born in York State, but was 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIANA. 299 

brought to Indiana at the age of eleven years. Both Mr. and Mrs. McMichael are 
members of the Presbyterian Church, and politically he is a Democrat, and cast his 
first presidential vote for Martin Van Buren. William C. McMichael, his sou, and 
clerk of St. Joseph county, was born in Harris township of this county April 27, 
1841, aud received the education usually given the pioneer farmer's boy. He 
attended school in Mishawaka for four terms and during his vacations worked on 
the Mishawaka Free Press, now the Enterprise, where he acquired a practical 
insight into the printer's art. He became an employe on the South Bend Forum, 
afterward on the Register, which was managed by Schujler Colfax, and for four 
years was foreman of the Ave Maria, of Notre Dame, being connected with this 
office for five years. While filling this position, his leisure time was devoted to the 
study of law, and eventually the degree of bachelor of law was conferred upon 
him. In 1874 he was elected to the State Legislature from St. Joseph and Marshall 
counties, in which body he served efficiently for one term. At this time he was 
foreman of the Register office of South Bend, and at the expiration of his term as 
legislator he went to Washington, D. C, and for three years was in the document 
rooms of the Government printing otfice, and the following year was in the general 
postoffice, in the Finance Department, under Postmaster-General Keys. At the 
end of this time he went to Chicago and read proof on the city directory for a con- 
siderable period, then once more became a resident of Mishawaka, and for two and a 
half j'ears filled the position of deputy recorder. In 1884 he was again elected to 
the Legislature, and in 1886 began discharging the duties of his present position, to 
which he was re-elected in 1890. He has been a beau ideal public officer, faithful 
to every interest of his section, and his career in the political arena has been without 
a blemish. He has always been a stanch Democrat and is popular with all classes, 
whether of his political creed or not. He was married in 1881 to Miss Minnie E. 
Roberts, who is a worthy member of the Ejiiscopal Church. 

John Q. Swanger is an old and highly-respected citizen of the community in 
which he now resides. His great-grandfather was born in Germany and came to 
America before the Revolutionary war, in which he afterward became a participant. 
He settled near Pittsburg, Penn., from there went to Wayne county, Ohio, and in 
1833 took up his residence in Richland county of the same State, where he became very 
wealthy as a tiller of the soil and lived to the advanced age of one hundred and two 
years, having for a great many years been a believer in the doctrines of the Lutheran 
Church. Jacob Swanger, his son, was born in Lancaster county, Penn., and was 
married there to Mary Lasher, to which union thirteen children were given: Peter 
and Jacob (twins), Elizabeth, Michael, John, Betsey, David, Catherine, George, 
Susan, Abram, Martha, and one that died young. After the birth of his three eldest 
children Mr. Swanger moved to Wayne county, Ohio, but in 1833 became a resident 
of Richland county, where he bought and resided on a farm of 120 acres until 1851, 
the nine subsequent years being spent in Berrien county, Mich. He then returned to 
Richland county, Ohio, and there was called from life at the advanced age of ninety- 
seven years, at which time he was a member of the Lutheran Cliurch. He was a sol- 
dier in the War of 1812 and was with Perry ou Lake Erie, also participating in other 
engagements. He was an industrious man and a good mechanic, besides being a 
successful tiller of the soil, a practical shoemaker, a good weaver, a manufacturer of 
cradles for the cutting of wheat and also of wooden mold-l)oard plows, obtaining 
his material for them from twisted trees. Peter Swanger, his son and father of the 
subject of this sketch, first saw the light of day on April 21, 1801, in Lancaster 
county, Penn., but unfortunately received but little education in his youth, his serv- 
ices being required on the home farm. He went to Ohio with his father and was 
married in Wayne county to Mary Boydson, who died after bearing him two chil- 
dren: John Q. and George W. , the latter dj'ing while serving in the Union army 
during the Civil war. After the death of his wife Mr. Swanger moved to Richland 
county, Ohio, in 1835, there wedded Martha Johnson and by her became the father 



300 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of eight children: William (who died while serving in the Civil war), Hester A., 
Mary, Alexander J., Sarah, Margery, Loving C. and Franklin B. Mr. Swanger still 
resides on his farm in Richland county and has attained to the age of ninety two 
years. He has always been highly respected by the citizens of Richland county and 
for many years has been a member of the Christian Church. Formerly an old line 
Whig in politics he is now a Republican, and during the Civil war was an enthusi- 
astic supporter of the Union, four of his sons enlisting to fight their country's 
battles: John Q., George W., William J. and Alexander J. John Q. Swanger owes 
his nativity to Wayne county, Ohio, where he was born May 3, 1832. At an early 
age he was called upon to assist in the duties of the farm, therefore he received a 
very limited education. At the age of twenty-one years he came to South Bend, 
and after learning the carpenter's trade worked at it in Berrien county, Mich., the 
most of the time until the opening of the Civil war. January 6, 1856, he married 
Elsa J., daughter of Isaac and Electa (Scott) Tripp, the former of whom was a na- 
Live of Niagara county, N. Y., and was a plow manufacturer and farmer. He was 
:he father of ten children: Nelson, Augustus, Helen, Elsa J., Lucinda, Anna E., 
Isaac, Silas, Mahala and Franklin. Mr. Tripp died at the age of seventy-six years 
at the home of his daughter, Mahala, in Michigan. He was well educated, a man 
of good general information and at one time read law. He for some time served 
as sheriff of his county. After Mr. Swanger' s marriage he lived in Steel county, 
Minn., on some wild land for four years; in 1859 returned to Berrien county and 
there rented a farm. August 14, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, Twenty-fifth 
Regiment, Michigan Volunteer Infantry and served faithfully and well until he was 
hoQorably discharged June 24, 1865, at Salisbury, N. C, and received pay and was 
mustered out at Jackson, when he returned to New Troy, Mich. He was in the follow- 
ing engagements: Tibbs Bend, July 4, 1865, Kingston, London, Knoxville, Tenn., 
Mossy Creek, Rocky Face Mountain, Resaca, Dallas, Altoona, Cilps Farm, Kene- 
saw Mountain, Eutaw Creek, Decatur, Atlanta, Jonesboro, Duck River Ford, Nash- 
ville, New Brunswick, Wilmington, Goldsboro, Raleigh and Greensboro and at the 
surrender of Gen. Joe Johnston, besides which brilliant array of battles he took an 
active part in forty skirmishes. He was a good soldier, and although sick several 
times he was never in the hospital and escaped without wounds, but now suffers a 
great deal from rheumatism which, without doubt, was caused by exposure and a dis- 
abled left wrist resulting from a fall at the battle of Kingston, Tenn. Mr. Swanger's 
marriage has resulted in the birth of ten children: Myron F., who was in the regu- 
lar service of the United States for five years, was in a number of engagements with 
the Indians, is married to Clara Harris, resides at Safford, Ariz., and has three 
children: Levi E., died at the age of eighteen years; Homer married Candace Bul- 
lard, is a resident of Mishawaka and has four children; Lenora died when twenty- 
eight years of age; William J. is married and is in the hardware business in Marion, 
Ind. ; Ella married Edward Nolan, a foreman in a shirt factory of South Bend; John 
Q. married Efiie Lawler and is a tinner of Mishawaka; Grant died when nine years of 
age; May and Louie. Mr. Swanger has been a resident of St. Joseph county since 
the war, at first being an employe in the wagon factory of Alex Coquillard. Nine 
years later he entered the Studebaker Bros, establishment, after which he turned 
his attention to manufacturing cement sidewalks, which is still his chief occupation 
and of which he is a thorough master. This occupation has proved a profitable 
one and Mr. Swanger is kept constantly busy. He and his wife are members of 
the Christian Church, and in the G. A. R., of which he is a member, he is a junior 
vice commander. He has always been a Republican politically. He is with reason 
considered a man of his word and is in comfortable circumstances. 

Lucins K. Robinson, a well-known resident of Mi.shawaka, Ind., is descended from 
an old colonial family of New England, and is of English and Scotch descent. 
Daniel G. Robinson, the founder of the family in America, came from Scotland and 
was one of the original settlers of Connecticut, and from him descended the family of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 301 

that name in New England, ex-Governor Lucius Eobinson, of New York, being of 
the same stock, which has become distinguished throughout the East. Parley Eob- 
inson, the great-grandfather of Lewis K., was born in New England, but became a 
resident of New York. He was a soldier of the Revolution and the War of 1812, 
and was present at the battle of Lundy's Lane. He married and became the father 
of Betsey, Parley, Joseph, Burton, Alexander, Lyman and Emeline. He was one 
of the first residents of Lawrence county, Mich. , but afterward located and died in 
Ingham county, having met 'with success as a farmer. Lyman P. Koljinson, his 
son, was born in sight of the Green Mountains in Vermont, and in this State he ob- 
tained a common-school education, and later, being a natural mechanic, he followed 
the trade of carpenter. He removed to Newstead, Erie Co., N. Y., and was 
there married to Nancy Wilson, by whom he became the father of these chil- 
dren: Lucius K., Emeline, Mary R., Lyman C, Orin C. and Wilton P. In the 
spring of 18-45 he settled in Paw Paw, Van Buren Co., Mich., and there died in 
1847, at the age of thirty-six. He was a man of powerful physique, was very in- 
dustrious and was much respected for his honorable character. Lucius K. , his son 
and the subject of this sketch, was born in the town of Newstead, Erie Co., 
N. Y., December 25, 1833, and was taken to Michigan by his parents when but two 
years old. After serving three years to learn his trade he attended school, receiving 
a common- school education. March 30, 1856, he married Sarah, daughter of Jacob 
and Catherine (Ruthner) Sternberg, who were of German stock, and to Mr. and Mrs. 
Robinson two children were born that lived to grow to mature years: Annabel E., 
and Latan Willard, who was born July 7, 1860, and died January 15, 1862. Mr. 
Robinson was married and settled at Lawton, Van Buren Co., Mich., and in Oc- 
tober following the firing on Ft. Sumter he enlisted in Company H, Twelfth Regi- 
ment Michigan Volunteer, Infantry, as a private. He was first made second lieu- 
tenant, but was mustered in as orderly sergeant. He took part in the battle of 
Shiloh and the siege of Corinth, after which he was taken very ill and was sent 
home with an honorable discharge, dated July 9, 1862; was elected corporation trus- 
tee of the village of Lawton, and served in 1865-6. After his return he resided 
at Lawton until October 15, 1866, then went to South Haven and bought a hotel 
with livery in connection, which he conducted for four years, at which time he traded 
this house for a much larger hotel at Dowagiac, Mich., remaining proprietor of 
the same for one year. In 1872 he came to South Bend, Ind. , and for some time 
worked in a cooper shop and conducted a large boarding house, but in the latter 
part of the same year he opened a cooper shop at Briston, Ind. Since May 12, 
1875, he has been a substantial citizen of Mishawaka, where he has been very 
successful as a cooper and is the owner of a fine brick residence, 409 East 
Second street, a good frame house next to it, and an oflfice and shop on 
East Division street. Both he and his wife are members of the First Method- 
ist Church. Politically he has always been a Republican, and while in Van 
Buien county, Mich., he held the position of constable and deputy sheriff. He 
is a member of the G. A. R., Hatan Post, 128, Department of Indiana, has been 
ofiScer of the day and junior vice-commander. He is an upright, industrious citi- 
zen and has proven a valuable addition to the town. 

William L. Jetton is one of the old settlers of St. Joseph county, Ind., and 
formerly a substantial farmer of Harris township, but now a prominent and respected 
resident of Mishawaka. His paternal grandfather came from France and settled 
on tiie Delaware River in the State of Delaware, where he followed the calling of a 
medical practitioner for many years. He also owned a large farm in Newcastle 
county, Del. He was married after coming to this country and became the father 
of the following children: Peter, Thomas and Martha. Dr. Jetton passed from 
life in the State of his adoption. His son, Thomas, was the father of the subject 
of this sketch, and was born in the Blue Hen State, was there reared and educated 
and also married, his wife being Miss Rebecca Thomas, and their union resulted 



303 PICTORIAL A^D BIOGliAPUICAL 

in tbe birth of the following children: Charity, Martha. Margaret, Mary, Lewis, 
William L. and a twin, who died in infancy. Thomas Jetton was a farmer by 
occnpation and was called from life when jnst in the prime of manhood, at the 
untimely age of thirty-six years. William L. Jetton, his son and tbe subject of this 
biograjihy, was born on his father's farm, near the Delaware River, in Newcastle 
county, September 6, 1819, and as there were no free schools in that section during 
his boyhood he secured only a very limited education, this being also in a measure 
owing to the fact that his father died when he was but two years old, and his 
mother when he had attained the age of seven years. William L. was thus thrown 
on the mercy of the world, but was kindly eared for by a consin until he reached 
the age of fifteen years. Wlien very young many small duties were laid upon his 
shoulders, and these increased with his years until he was thoroughly familiar 
with all the details of farm work. On February t>, 1S44, he took a wife in the per- 
son of Miss Sarah J., daughter of Zaehariah and Deborah (Derickson) Derickson, 
the former of whom was a well-to-do farmer of Newcastle county, Del., he and 
his wife being the parents of the following children: Joseph, Ellen, William, Han- 
nah, Sarah J. , John P. and Lydia. Mr. Derickson died on his farm at the age of 
sixty-eight years. In 1S-14, soon after his marriage, Mr. Jetton came to St. Joseph 
county, Ind. , the same year raised a crop of wheat in Harris township, and in 
March settled on the eighty acres of land which he had purchased. To this prop- 
erty he added at various times, as his means would permit, and he eventually 
became the owner of "240 acres of fertile farming land, which he not only improved 
by cultivation but also by the erection of good buildings of all descriptions, every- 
thing about his place indicating that a man of intelligence, thrift and industry had 
the management of affairs. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church, 
and politically he is a stanch Republican, having in early times been an old line 
Whig. To his marriage two children have been born: Thomas J., born January 
1, 1^5ti, and Rebecca D., born December 23, 1S51. At the present time Mr. Jet- 
ton owns only lt)0 acres of land, having sold the rest. He has always been a hard 
worker and is in every sense of the word self-made. At the time of his arrival in 
this county he had |4lR) and a good span of horses, and from this small begin- 
ning has built up his present excellent property. His journey to this State occu- 
pied about twenty-five days. After crossing the Alleghany Mountains in a stage 
he went down the Ohio River to Wheeling, W. Va., and then walked to Mishawaka, 
returning to Delaware for his wife the following fall on horseback. His son, 
Thomas J., is married to Lydia Brooker and resides on the home farm, while 
Rebecca D. . who married Eugene W. Baldwin, a bricklayer of Chicago, has two 
children. 

James Oliver. Who has not heard of the Oliver chilled plows and their famous 
inventor? Truly it is not always that " circumstances make the man,'" for James 
Oliver is a shining example to the coutrary; and there is no one who envies the suc- 
cess he has achieved because his indefatigable toil and hours of patient thought 
and study have brought about a just reward. A native of Liddisdale parish, 
Eocksburyshire, Scotland, his birth occurred August 28, 1S23. When twelve years 
old he was brought by his parents to the United States, and after about a year's stay 
in Seneca county, N. T.. the family settled at Mishawaka, Ind. His parents 
being limited in means, James at the age of thirteen assumed the responsibilities of 
manhood aud began doing for himself. Early in youth two prominent characteris- 
tics made themselves manifest in him — a willingness to work at any honorable calling 
and an aptitude for mechanics. From 1845 to 1855 he was employed by the St. 
Joseph Iron Company, but in the latter year moved to South Bend, where, in a 
small way, he began manufacturing plows. Although many trials and adversities 
were met with during his lieginning of a manufacturing career, his inherited Scotch 
pluck aud preseverance. kept his business together, and slowly but gradually it in- 
creased in prosperity. For years his mind had been occupied with the one great 



MKMOIli.i OF lyniAKA. 303 

object of producing a perfectly chilled plow, and altbough tbonsaads of dollars 
had been spent by otheri? in unsuccessfully trying to solve this problem, Mr. Oliver 
still continued his studies and experiments in this direction. Owing to so many others 
having failed, his friends began to look upon him as half invention mad, while 
those who had befriended him previously, with money and influence, withdrew 
their support and left him to struggle alone with black clouds of defeat and failure 
hanging over him. Day and night, for years, he thought of nothing else, bending 
every energy to this one great object. His patience and perseverance were at last 
rewarded, the glorious sun of success dispelled the clouds of despair, and he awoke 
to find himself famous and riches pouring in upon him. His invention had made 
him a benefactor to the agriculturists, and his name will never be forgotten by 
future writers on mechanics and inventors. 

Dr. Samuel L. Kilmer is one of the foremost medical practitioners of St. Joseph 
county, Ind., but first saw the light of day in Ashland county, Ohio, April 12, 1849, 
being the youngest of a family of five children. In his veins flows sturdy German 
blood, for at an early day his ancestors emigrated from Hesse Darmstadt to Penn- 
sylvania, in which State, in the county of Juniata, both his parents were born. His 
father, Isaac Kilmer, was a man of much force of character and great determination, 
and possessing a rare power of discrimination, his counsel was much sought by his 
neighbors and friends. He was an industrious and successful farmer, charitable to 
a fault, and no alms-seeker was ever turned away from his door hungry or empty- 
handed. He died in Elkhart county, Ind., in 1883, at the age of sixty-nine years, of 
heart disease engendered by hard labor and exposure during his active farming days. 
Dr. Kilmer's mother, Anna Kilmer, was a woman of singularly gentle and amiable 
disposition, charitable to the faults of others, no harsh word of censure or criti 
cism ever being heard from her, for she believed that similar causes and circumstances 
might have produced similar actions in others also. She was greatly l>eloved by all 
who knew her. She died in Elkhart county in 1892, at the advanced age of eighty- 
one years, of la grippe and pneumonia. Both parents were lifelong members of the 
Mennonite Church and died as they had lived, consistent Christians. When the 
subject of this sketch was four years old, his parents moved to Elkhart county, Ind., 
in what was then a new country, and purchased and proceeded to clear up a heavily 
timbered tract of land of 240 acres and bring it into a state of cultivation. In 
this work young Samuel assisted as soon as he was physically capable of rendering 
any aid, and upon this farm, and engaged in its arduous labors and duties, he grew 
into manhood, availing himself of the meager educational facilities afforded at the 
time, which consisted principally of three months' district school each year. He 
learned readily, and this, combined with studiousness, placed him with great regu- 
larity at the head of his classes. After attending a term at the normal school, in 
Goshen, Ind., he began a career as " Hoosier Schoolmaster," teaching his first term 
at the age of eighteen. The ensuing season he attended an academy at Smithville, Ohio, 
and again taught district school in Indiana in the several succeeding winter seasons. 
As a teacher he was a signal success, having a reputation as a rigid disciplinarian 
and practical instructor of useful knowledge extending into surrounding counties, 
which made his services much sought after. A .special, or select school, taught by 
him in the village of Jamestown being so markedly successful that it was attended 
by teachers of puljlic schools for many miles around, who were happy to avail them- 
selves of his practical methods of teaching for their own improvement in the same 
occupation. In those days it was the delight and ambition of many of the larger 
and ruder pupils in the schools to overawe the teacher and break up the school, and 
numerous were the attempts of the rougher element to break up the evening 
" spelling schools." Neither of these things ever occurred in a school taught by 
S. L. Kilmer, his firmness and impartiality always enabling him to win. In those 
days to "spare the rod" was believed to "spoil the school," and although ever en- 
deavoring to rule by kindness, at no time did he hesitate to use the rod when it was 



304 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

plain that the interest and welfare of the school demanded it. In 1871 he graduated 
at the Northwestern Business College and Institute of Penmanship, at Madison, 
Wis., presided over by that well-known educator, Prof. B. M. Worthington, and 
subsequently was book-keeper and clerk at the Vilas House in that city, which gave 
him an opportunity to learn much of business life and a wide acquaintance with the 
prominent public men of Wisconsin and the traveling public generally. Later he 
held the position of professor of book-keeping and penmanship in some of the lead- 
ing business colleges of the country, viz. : The Bryant & Stratton, of Philadelphia, 
and The Nelson, of Cincinnati. At the latter institution his abilities as an instructor 
were again quickly demonstrated, inasmuch as a practical business class which he 
organized in connection with the college, in consequence of a woful lack of knowl- 
edge of a practical character manifested by the college students, soon outgrew all 
expectations, numbering over two hundred students, from all classes in life, the 
clerk, book-keeper, artisan and merchant, and from all ages, from boys to men of forty 
years or more, the number in the class being limited only by the capacity of the hall 
Having now, by industry, frugal living and economy, acquired some money, he began 
the study of medicine, and here again, as formerly, his habits of assiduous appli- 
cation to his studies carried him readily and rapidly along in the front ranks of his 
classes, and after three years' study, in 1879, he graduated from Rush Medical Col- 
lege, Chicago, 111., being well known and noted for his proficiency in all the branches 
taught in that famous institution. For two sessions he acted as assistant demon- 
strator of anatomy there, and in consequence of his thorough knowledge of this im- 
portant branch, was invited by the celebrated surgeon. Prof. Charles T. Parkes, to 
become his prosector of anatomy also during his last term at college. Of this oppor- 
tunity he availed himself, which threw him much into the company and society of 
that great surgeon and enabled him frequently to assist him in his immense surgical 
practice. Although requested to remain in Chicago and retain his college positions, 
with the assurance of promotion to a regular professorship as rapidly as vacancies 
existed, be declined the tempting offer, and the day after his graduation he left at 
once for his chosen field of labor — South Bend, Ind. , where he associated himself 
in the practice of medicine with the late Dr. J. A. Kettring, whose wide reputation 
as a skillful physician had created a practice far beyond his physical ability to 
attend, and who, from the knowledge of the excellent record made by Dr. Kilmer 
at college, and the unusual prominence and distinction he had attained in his 
classes and with the facult}% in consequence of his thorough knowledge of the sub- 
jects taught, was desirous of securing him as his professional associate, and to that 
end he had invited him to join him in a copartnership for the practice of medicine. 
A very pleasant professional association thus formed was abruptly terminated some 
months later by the imperative necessity on the part of Dr. Kettring of taking his 
wife abroad for the benefit of her health. Dr. Kilmer then entered upon an inde- 
pendent professional career and his success was phenomenal, especially in surgery, 
for which branch of his profession he had a decided preference, and to perfect 
himself in this line he returned to Rush Medical College the following winter and 
during the entire session devoted his time to the study of surgery and gynecology. 
Returning to South Bend, he resumed his practice, and has followed it with signal 
success ever since, except one session that he spent at the Post Graduate Medical 
College, in New York City, during which time he availed himself of the unrivaled 
facilities there found in connection with all the best hospitals and most competent 
instructors and operators for pursuing the study of the details of his specialties. 
His success as a surgeon and gynecologist is thoroughly established and he numbers 
his patients from many of the surrounding States, while his celebrated remedies have 
an established reputation and sale all over the world. He has the faculty of tak- 
ing advantage of crises as they arise, and being possessed of an inventive mind, 
is able to design and construct such original appliances as the cases may require. 
He is a great observer, always seeking for and quick to avail himself of the benefits 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 305 

to be derived from the discoveries and developments made in the rapid strides in 
progress of the science and practice of medicine and surgery, whether the discovery 
was made by himself or others, and is always ready to give credit and do honor to 
the fortunate individual who discovers any means of alleviating sufFering. He is 
a frequent contributor to medical journals and the articles from his pen are accorded 
the honor of being copied far and wide, thus giving him a wide professional 
acquaintance and frequent correspondence from foreign countries. Numerous pub- 
lishers of medical literature have requested him to become a regular contributor 
to their publications. Professorships in medical colleges have been tendered him, 
but as he prefers the practice of medicine to the teaching of it, he has always 
declined. He has positive opinions upon the subject of temperance, as it affects 
the health, and has frequent invitations to deliver lectures thereon. He is the 
author of a physician's pocket account book which gives universal satisfaction. 
He has been for years surgeon of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway, 
and medical examiner for numerous life insurance societies. His abhorrence of 
and opposition to all forms of cruelty are well known, and he has for years been 
president of the South Bend Humane Society. The Doctor is a Republican, and 
although taking no active part in politics, in two separate political campaigns he 
could have had a unanimous nomination for the State senatorship, his party 
insisting upon him accepting it. He has also been requested to accept a nomina- 
tion to the mayoralty of South Bend, but as it would interfere too greatly with 
his professional labors to engage actively in politics, all political honors have 
been declined. Dr. Kilmer was married in 1881 to Miss Margaret Knott, of 
Sumption Prairie, Ind. , a most estimable lady and a member of one of the best 
families in the county. She is a great favorite in social circles. Their married 
life has been exceptionally happy. They have been blessed with one child, a bright 
and lovely daughter, Bessie, now seven years of age, the joy and idol of her parents, 
and universally esteemed by her playmates. Although not a member of any chui'ch, 
the Doctor has a pew in the First Presbyterian Church, for whose pastor, the Rev. 
Dr. Henry Johnson, he has a profound reverence, and where, with his family, he 
attends when his professional labors do not prevent. 

John W. Botd has been a lifelong resident of Mishawaka, is of Scotch descent 
and comes of a family that settled in America in a very early day. James C Boyd, 
the father of John W., was born in East Tennessee, but when about eight years of 
age went with his father to West Virginia, where he was brought up and learned the 
trade of a carpenter. One of his fellow apprentices was a young man by the name 
of Brownlow, who afterward became the famous Parson Brownlow of Tennessee. 
They both served seven years, and Mr. Boyd afterward became a ship carpenter. He 
was entirely self-educated, and almost wholly self made. He was married in Leb- 
anon, Va. , to Miss Ann E. Rohr, who was born in Maryland, and they became the 
parents of eight children: Sarah A., Elizabeth, Lucinda (who died at the age of 
nineteen years), Margaret C. , John W., James C, Robert F. and Charles H. In 1838 
Mr. Boyd came to Mishawaka, at which time he brought with him two negroes, a wo- 
man and her son, whom he set free. Mr. Boyd settled on some wild land eight miles 
southeast of Mishawaka, in Penn township, but two years later he removed to the 
town and began building freight boats to ply on the St. Joseph River, and at one 
time was the owner of a fleet of nine boats which made regular voyages between 
St. Joseph and Three Rivers, Mich., carrying a great amount of freight during the 
year. Mr. Boyd was called the Commodore by the old settlers. He carried on this 
business successfully until the building of the Michigan Southern & Lake Shore 
Railroad, when the competition in carrying freight ruined him. In 1850 he crossed 
the plains to California, becoming very wealthy, but unfortunately lost his mines 
under an old Spanish claim. In 1856 he returned to Mishawaka and turned his at- 
tention to farming, dying at the age of sixty-four years. He was a man of great 
energy, and of large and powerful physique, weighing 320 pounds, and at one time 



306 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

lifted a weight of 1,100 pounds. His head was of unusual size, requiring a No. 8^ 
hat, and had to have them made to order. He was an espouser of all measures of 
morality, was strictly temperate in his habits, and he and his wife were members of 
the Methodist Church. He was well known by the old pioneers of the county as a 
strictly honorable man, and was highly regarded by all. John W. Boyd, his son 
and the subject of this sketch, was born June 21, 1S38, on his father's farm in 
Penn township, and received such education as the common schools of his day afforded. 
At the age of two years he became a resident of Mishawaka, and here, in the old St. 
Joseph Iron Works, he learned the trade of plow maker, and for tweuty-seven years 
since has continued to work in the same shops. He became an expert at his trade 
and in the later years o£ his labor received the best pay of any workman in the es- 
tablishment. March 31, 1860 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Isaac and Eliza- 
beth (Byrket) Friend, the former of whom was born in Kentucky and came to St. 
Josei)h county, Ind., in 1844:, settling on a farm in Penn township one mile south of 
the town. He was one of the substantial men of his section, became a well-to-do 
farmer, and he and his wife were members of the German Baptist Church. Their 
children were Barbara, Polly, Elizabeth and Amos. After his marriage Mr. Boyd 
settled in Lakeville, ten miles south of South Bend, but in 1861 moved to Misha- 
waka. August 6, 1862, he offered his services to his country and became a private 
in Company K, Eighty-seventh Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving with 
credit until the close of the war, and participating in the battles of Perryville, Mur- 
freesboro, Franklin, Tallahoma, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Atlanta, and was 
with Sherman in the greatest march in history — the march to the sea — his division 
being in advance, supporting the cavalry and was in an almost continuous skirmish. 
This was one of the longest marches made by an army and Mr. Boyd walked every 
step of the way. Gen. Sherman afterward said that his men showed themselves 
superior machines, and in point of endurance sujierior to the horse and came out in 
much better condition. Mr. Boyd was also in the battle of Goldsboro, N. C, and 
was present at Johnston's surrender, from which place he went to Washington, 
D. C, and took part in the Grand Review. He was honorably discharged at Indian- 
apolis as orderly sergeant, to which position he had been appointed November 24, 
1863. He was at one time detailed to the quartermaster's department as quarter- 
master sergeant. After the battle of Chickamauga, about November 24, he came 
home on recruiting service and rejoined the army the following April. Mr. Boyd's 
career as a soldier was marked by faithfulness to duty, courage and endurance, and 
he fortunately was not sick or wounded during his entire service, but the severe 
marches and exposure permanently injured his health, and to this day he is dis- 
abled by rheumatism and other disorders. At the battle of Atlanta he narrowly 
escaped death, for he was a large man and at the head of his company, and in the 
thick of the battle his captain and two men fell at his side and three others near 
by were wounded. After his gallant service in his country's cause he cheerfully re- 
sumed the duties of a private citizen, and is justly considered one of the leading 
men of the place. He has been a member of the town council, belongs to the 
G. A. R. and is a Republican politically. His long residence in the county has 
made him well known, and his family is as highly regarded as himself. His chil- 
dren are: Anna E., who married William Crawford, a merchant of La Porte, Ind. , 
and has one child; Ella S., married Robert McKnight, a farmer in the vicinity of 
Mishawaka, by whom she has two children, and Mary A., who married Frank E. 
Hartwick, a book-keeper of Chicago, by whom she has one child. Robert F. Boyd, 
a brother of John W. Boyd, was a soldier in Company I, Ninth Regiment Indiana 
Volunteer Infantry, and died in 1861 at Cheat Mountain, Va. Another brother, 
James C, was in the 100 days' service, who died in the silver mines of Arizona. 

Horace H. Stevens, of Mishawaka, lad., comes of Puritan stock, his ancestors 
being among the very first settlers of Plymouth, Mass. This family has become 
eminent in the affairs of the nation, from the earliest history of the country, and one 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 307 

of the early members of the family, Col. Ebeneezer Stevens of Revolutionary fame, 
assisted to throw the tea in the Boston Harbor, and afterward became a celebrated 
New York banker (see Lossings Field Book of the Revolution and Johnson's 
Encyclopedia for further history). Solomon H. Stevens, father of Horace H. , was 
born in Amherst, N. H. , April 1, 180-4, was reared a farmer and was mainly self- 
educated, for his school days lasted only three months. At the age of twelve years 
he was bound out to learn the trade of a baker in the city of Boston, and there he 
remained until he attained man's estate. He then left "The Hub" and went to 
Buffalo, N. Y. , where he obtained employment at his trade, and there he was mar- 
ried November 4, 1832, to Miss Clarissa J., daughter of Joseph Stone, a farmer, 
and to their union the following children were given: Laura, Charles H., John K. , 
Horace H. , Clarissa J. and Clark C. After residing in Buffalo for some years, Mr. 
Stevens moved to Silver Creek, N. Y., but in November, 1842, he turned his face 
westward and soon found himself at Mishawaka, Ind., where his trade occupied his 
attention until 1855. By this time he had saved enough means to purchase a farm 
four miles northeast of the town, and there he resided until the spring of 1863, 
when he returned to Mishawaka and resided here until he paid the last debt of 
nature in January, 1874, at the age of seventy years. He always supported the 
Republican and Whig parties, and for many years was a deacon in the Baptist 
Church. During the Civil war he was a stanch Union man, and two of his sons, 
Horace H. and Clark C, were in the Federal army, being members of the same 
regiment and company. Clark C. died of lung fever contracted from exposure in 
camp life before he was mustered into the service. Horace H. Stevens was born in 
Silver Creek, N. Y., May 23, 1840, and obtained his education in the common schools 
of St. Joseph county, Ind., for he was brought thither by his parents when about 
two and a half years old. At the age of fifteen he went on to the farm with his 
father, to whom he gave valuable aid in its cultivation until he entered the army 
November 6, 1863. becoming a member of Company D, One Hundred and Twenty- 
eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, at Mishawaka, serving until the war 
closed. He acted in the capacity of teamster, until he was taken sick from exposure, 
after which he was in the hospital for three months and obtained a furlough, remain- 
ing at home for fifty days. He then rejoined his regiment, but was again taken 
sick and again in the hospital for three months and at Chester for five weeks, then 
was honorably discharged, as the war had ended. After returning to Mishawaka 
he followed various occupations for some time, but his constitution was greatly 
broken down by the hardships of his army career, and he has never regained his 
old-time vigor. He has always been a model citizen, and has always been strictly 
temperate and moral, supporting measures for the good of his section in a free- 
hearted and prompt manner. He has always been a Republican, and has held the 
office of senior vice-commander in the G. A. R. April 18, 1875, he was married to 
Mrs. Adelia Lawrence, daughter of Louis Brunnell, a Frenchman by descent. 

Hon. Timothy E. Howard. To become distinguished at the bar requires not 
only capacity, but also sound judgment and persevering industry. These qualifica- 
tions are combined in no gentleman at the St. Joseph county bar to a greater extent 
than in Timothy E. Howard. A careful and accurate adviser, and an earnest and 
conscientious advocate, his success at the bar has been achieved by the improvement 
of opportunities, by untiring diligence, and by close study and correct judgment of 
men and motives. Like so many of the eminent men of the present day his early 
career was a humble one, for he was reared on his native farm in the vicinity of Ann 
Arbor, Mich., where he was born January 27, 1837, and there he soon came to know 
the meaning of hard work. His parents, Martin and Julia (Beahan) Howard, were 
both natives of the Isle of Erin, and came to this country in their early days, the 
former first setting foot on American soil about the year 1832. After a short stay 
in the Green Mountain State he came to Ann Arbor, Mich. , a few miles from where 
he eventually entered some Government land, then in a very wild state. There, in 



308 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPIIIUAL 

the midst of the forest, and far from any other human habitation, he erected a little 
log cabin, where he lived until his means permitted better improvements, and where 
the subject of this sketch was born. The elder Howard resided on this farm until 
he paid the last debt of nature in 1851. At the time of his demise he was town- 
ship clerk, and had held other minor township and district offices. His widow sur- 
vived him until March, 1892. There are now only three surviving members of 
their family of seven children: Timothy E., Michael F. and Julia A. Timothy E. 
Howard was the eldest of the family, and, although but fourteen years of age at the 
time of his father's death, he took upon his slender and youthful shoulders the 
management of the home farm, and with the intelligent counsel and advice of his 
worthy mother, he made a success of his undertakings. His early education was 
obtained in the common schools of the rural districts, but he was later fortunate 
enough to be sent to the "Old Seminary " at Ypsilanti, and to the University of 
Michigan at Ann Arbor, enjoying in the former institution the instructions of that 
model teacher. Prof. Joseph Estabrook, and in the latter that of the genial scholar. 
Dr. Erastus O. Haven. He taught in the district schools near Ann Arbor for two 
years. About this time he secured a chance to teach and attend school in the Uni- 
versity of Notre Dame, Ind. , and at once gladly closed with the offer, and from 
that noted institution of learning he graduated in 1862. In February of that year 
he forsook his alma mater in order to light his country's battles and enlisted in 
Company I, of the Twelfth Michigan Infantry, the fortunes of which he followed 
until the battle of Shiloh, where he received a gunshot wound in the neck and left 
shoulder, and was sent to Evansville on a hospital boat and placed in the Marine 
Hospital, where he remained about two months. Upon recovering he came home on 
a furlough, and, being honorably discharged as untit for further duty, he returned 
to teaching at Notre Dame, graduating therefrom that year. He held his position 
of instructor in that institution for about twenty years altogether. In 1878 he was 
elected to the position of county clerk, and served four years, during which time he 
was also a member of the city council. While at Notre Dame he studied law and 
received his diploma, but did not practice until the expiration of his term as county 
clerk. Since then he has been an active practitioner, and his knowledge of law and 
his intelligence on all matters of public interest were recognized by his being elected 
to the office of State senator in 1886, and by being honored with a re-election in 
1890. He is the author of the Momence bill for the drainage of the Kankakee 
Valley, and was chairman of the special senate committee in charge of the school 
text-book law. He secured the extension of the new election law to township and 
city elections, and drafted the new revenue law. He also introduced and pressed to 
passage the bill for the establishment of the Appellate Court. He had charge in 
the Senate of the Indianapolis city charter, also of the suburban street railway bill, 
both of which became laws. He has served as city attorney of South Bend for four 
year's, and also as county attorney. In November, 1892, he was elected supreme 
judge of the State, and took his seat on the bench January 2, 1893. The following 
extract, written while he was in the State Senate, in 1891, is taken from the Evans- 
ville Journal, and in every way coincided with the opinion that has been formed of 
him by those who have noticed his brilliant career, or are personally acquainted 
with him : ' ' His strength lies in his great fairness and liberality, coupled with a 
keen discernment of the motives behind actions. He himself never hesitates to 
explain fully his reasons for any line of action, and when he has explained them 
there is always a large following of senators who find that they may agree with him 
exactly. He is a Christian gentleman, mild, courteous, patient, unresentful, a fine 
illustration of the oft disputed fact that a man of lofty character and unyielding 
principles can succeed in political life." In 1864 he was married to Miss Julia A. 
Redmond. They have had ten children, eight of whom are living: Charles, Mary, 
Edward, Agnes, John, Genevieve, Eleanora and George. Mr. Howard has been a 
member of the G. A. K. since 1880. 




J^/: 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 311 

Prof. Btros J. Bogde. The rapid advancement made of late in matters per- 
taining to popular education is due in no small part to the brilliant leaders who 
have arisen here and there, and who have dedicated their labors and energies to 
the upbuilding of the school interests of their respective States. Among these, none 
perhaps has won wider recognition in Indiana than Byron J. Bogue, who early 
began the career of a teacher and is now filling creditably the position of super- 
intendent of schools of Mishawaka. He is of Scotch descent and comes of one of 
the early families of this county that settled in Connecticut in the colonial period. His 
great-grandfather was a soldier in the war for Independence, serving seven years, 
and his son Henry, who was born in Conneticiit, and there tilled the soil very 
successfully, was an active participant in the War of 1812. He was married to 
Sarah Fletcher, and to them five children were given: Rowena, Celestia, Daniel, 
Newel and Fletcher. Mr. Bogue, with his family, was the seventh family to settle 
in Brunswick township, Medina Co., Ohio; cleared up a good farm from the 
wilderness and became one of its most substantial citizens. He was one of the 
prominent men of his section, was public spirited, and the people showed their re- 
spect for his views by placing him in a number of positions of trust, which he filled 
in a most creditable manner. He was a man of lofty character, was the soul of 
honesty in his business transactions and the respect in which he was held was 
unbounded. He retained his youthful activity until late in life and died at the 
age of eighty-one. Daniel Bogue, his son, first saw the light in Colebrook, Litch- 
field Co., December 15, 1815, and was a mere infant when taken to Ohio by his 
father, who drove throtigh with an ox team, leaving Connecticut June 20, 1816, ar- 
riving at his destination, August 28. He received the advantages of the pioneer school, 
and, in addition to becomming well versed in farming, he also learned the trade of a 
carpenter. Upon reaching manhood he was married to Hittie, daughter of Henry 
and Sarah Lewis, the former of whom was a farmer of Portage county, Ohio, although 
formerly from New York, and a cousin of Maj. Lewis, of the famous Lewis & 
Clark Expedition, which was the first to cross the mountains. To Daniel Bogue and 
his wife were born the following named children: Emma (who died in infancy), Ellen, 
Henry L. , Newel E., Byron J.,Milo, Augustus H., Emma A., Edwin L., and Charles 
D. After his marriage Mr. Bogue settled on a farm of 140 acres in Rootstown town- 
ship. Portage Co., Ohio, apart of a tract of laud belonging to his grandfather, which 
he cleared from the forest and on which he made numerous very valuable improve- 
ments in the way of buildings, etc. He was always a Democrat, a patron of all en- 
terprises tending to the advancement of his section, the cause of education finding in 
him an especially enthusiastic supporter. He gave his children common-school ad- 
vantages, and encouraged two of his sons to obtain exceptionally liberal educations. 
He was interested in the County Agricultural Society, of which he was vice-president 
and director for some years, and being a man of active mind and possessing a large 
fund of useful general information, his advice was sought on all matters of importance 
in the county. He has a high standard of honor, is much respected for his integ- 
rity of character, and his word is justly considered as good as his bond. He is yet 
living on the old homsetead in Ohio, and for the past fifteen years has been a direct- 
or of the Portage & Summit Company Pioneer Association. Byron J. Bogue 
was born on this farm June 17, 1850, and, as soon as he had attained a proper age, 
he was placed in the district school near his home, in which he obtained acommon ed- 
ucation. He began teaching in the district schools at the age of ninteen years, after 
which he attended Buchtel College, of Akron Ohio, in 1872, of which institution 
he was one of the first students, for it was founded in 1870-1. While in college he 
continued to teach and work on the farm during vacations, in order to obtain means 
with which to defray his collegiate expenses, and he also did considerable janitor 
work aljout the college buildings, while pursuing his studies, and in 1877 he was 
rewarded by being graduated. Following this he taught select and district school 
for a time and in 1879 went to Ft. Wayne, Ind., where he taught in the Methodist 



312 PICTORIAL AlfD BIOGRAPHICAL 

Episcopal College until the fall of the same year, when he came to Mishawaka, and 
for three years was one of the successful teachers of the high school, being princi- 
pal. For five years following he was superintendent of the public schools of La 
Grange, Ind. ,but for the past six years has occupied the same position in the schools 
of Mishawaka, where he has given undisputable evidences of his fitness and popularity. 
He has thirteen teachers under him. Public education in Indiana has no more 
earnest advocate and co-operator than he; no one who more thoroughly under- 
stands and appreciates its needs and interests, and perhaps no one better qualified, 
through experience, to bring it to that high state of perfection which its present rapid 
advancement assures. The school library has been enlarged under his management 
from 400 to 1,200 volumes. A flourishing and popular Lyceum has been organ- 
ized, completed and dedicated; a grand piano added, besides other furnishings, 
making an attractive place for young people to assemble for literary work. The 
school apparatus has been greatly increased and consists of a highlj' improved kind. 
On the 7th of July, 1881, Mr. Bogue was married to Maria S., daughter of 
George and Electa (Lee) Colvin, the former of whom removed from the State of 
New York to Michigan, and, until his death, at the age of sixty-one years, he followed 
the occupation of a lumberman and millwright. Maria S. Colvin was born October 
10, 1855, in Palmyra, Lenawee Co., Mich. Mr. and Mrs. Bogue have an adopted 
son, Morgan Weir. Mrs. Bogue is highly educated, is a graduate of the Adrian 
High School, and in 1873 began teaching school in Michigan. After her graduation, 
in 1876, she was a very successful teacher in the grammar grades of the Mishawaka 
schools for a term of six years. She is now greatly interested in Orphans Home work 
and is secretary of the board of the Children's Aid Society, of Indiana. Mr. Bogue 
and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he is an elder. 
Politically he is a Democrat and socially is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the A. 
F. & A. M. He is in good circumstances and has a comfortable home in Mishawaka. 
He has accumulated a very valuable library of reference books, among which may be 
found such giants as " Encyclojaedia Britannica, " " The American," Zell's Cyclo's,'' 
"The Century Dictionary,'' "Webster's International Dictionary," and other 
reliable works. Personally Mr. Bogue is a cultured and polished gentleman, and his 
agreeable manners and genial qualities have won for him hosts of friends among 
the prominent peoisle of the county. To the young men under his tutorship he 
stands a shining example of what a youth may accomplish by energy, industry and 
brains. 

Harvey F. Banta. Among the reputable men of Nappanee, Ind. , who, in their 
conduct of business matters, and the duties belonging to the various relations of life, 
have acquired a worthy name, is Harvey F. Banta, who, although young in years is 
old in experience. He was formerly in business in Nappanee but is now connected 
with the Hawks Furniture Company at Goshen. He was born in Goshen, May 30, 
1862, and has been known from his earliest childhood as worthy of the respect and 
consideration of his neighbors. He was one of four children — three sons and one 
daughter — born to Frederick and Anna (Eckhart) Banta, natives of Germany, who 
came to this country about forty years ago, or about 1852, and settled at Goshen. 
Fredrick Banta is a prosperous and successful business man and has been connected 
with the Hawks Furniture Company for a number of years, having charge of the 
manufacturing department. In his political views he afiiliates with the Republican 
party, and in religion, he and wife hold membership in the Blethodist Episcopal 
Church. Their children were named as follows: Emma, at home; Harvey F. (sub- 
ject); Charles, book-keeper for the I. & L. Pump Company, and William, in City 
National Bank. Harvey F. Banta was reared in Goshen and secured his educa- 
tion in the public schools of the same. Later he entered the employ of the Hawks 
Furniture Company, of Goshen, and continued with them for a number of years, 
but resigned his position as foreman of one of the departments in 1887, and came 
to Nappanee. In this town he established himself in the furniture and undertaking 



MEMOIRS OF INDIA]!{A. 313 

business, which he carried on very successfully until December 1, 1891, when he sold 
out to Mr. Good. Mr. Banta is a young man possessed of unusual business attain- 
ments and is popular both in business and social circles. He is well and favorably 
known in the county, and in politics supports the policy and principles of the 
Republican party. He owns a fine residence in Nappanee, has a host of warm 
friends, and bright prospects are before him. Mr. Banta selected his wife in the 
person of Miss Ella Mellinger, daughter of John C. Melliager, and their nuptials 
were celebratedon August 11, 1888. Two children — Mabel and John — are the result 
of this union. 

Isaac Williams is descended from a family who settled in Pennsylvania during 
the colonial history of this country and for many years resided near the Alleghany 
Mountains, where they braved the dangers and endured the hardships of life in a 
new and unbroken country, inhabited by the prowling bear and what was far worse — 
the red man. The paternal great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch was burnt 
to death at the stake by the Indians. Benjamin Williams, the father of Isaac, was 
born in Allegheny county, Penn., but when a young man removed to Ohio, where he 
was married to Levina Shipley to whom were given an old-fashioned family of four- 
teen children, thirteen of whom lived to grow up: William, Mariah, Samuel, Lewis, 
John, Martha J., Jacob, Abraham, Isaac, Huldah, Margaret, Phoebe and Solomon. 
About 1847 Mr. Williams went to Wisconsin and settled on wild land and died in 
Waupaca county when quite advanced in years. He cleared up a good farm and 
assisted his sous to a good start in life. He did considerable surveying in an 
early day and being hard working and pushing he was proportionately successful. 
He was a memljer of the Baptist Church and politically was a Republican, being a 
strong Union man during the Civil war. One of his sons, William, was in the Mexican 
war and four iu the Civil war: Isaac in Company D; Lewis in Company I, Thirty- 
second Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, served three years and was in many 
battles; Samuel and John who were in the same regiment. Isaac Williams was 
born in Richland county, Ohio, October 16, 1838, aud was about ten years of age 
upon his removal to Wisconsin, the journey to that State being made by wagon, 
driving about thirteen head of cattle and horses ahead of them. Isaac was edu- 
cated in the pioneer schools of Wisconsin, in a house which was built by his father, 
who also hired the teacher. He became well versed in farm work during his youth, 
a calling he continued to follow until August 20, 1862, when he enlisted as a private 
from Waupaca, Wis. , and served in the company and regiment above mentioned 
until the spring of 1864, when, on account of disability, he was sent to Mound City, 
111., thence to Jefferson Barracks, Mo., and was transferred to the Veteran Reserve 
Corps. He was in the engagements at Moscow, Lafayette, Holly Springs, Davis' 
Mills and numerous skirmishes, but his health was undermined by exposure, and he 
was honorably discharged June 3, 1865. Upon his return home he went to Wabash, 
Ind. , and for two years was unable to do any work on account of ill health. He then 
became better and began learning the trade of a mason at Elkhart, Ind., and to this 
occupation his attention has since been devoted. He came to Mishawaka in 1879 
and has worked at masonry whenever his health would permit, which is about 
half the time. However, he is in comfortable circumstances. He was married at 
Lafayette, Ind., in 1864, to Sarah Young, daughter of James and Malinda (Long- 
fellow) Young, the former of whom was also a soldier in the Civil war in an Indi- 
ana regiment and died from sickness at Napoleon, Ark. He had two sons who were 
also in that war, William and Calvin. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Williams has 
resulted in the birth of five children: Clarence, Ella, Clara, Harvey and Harry. The 
mother of these children is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
As a citizen Mr. Williams has been whole-souled and public spirited, and his numerous 
worthy qualities have made him popular and well liked by all who have the pleasure 
of his acquaintance. He is a member of the G. A. R. and politically is a stanch 
Republican. 



314 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Dr. a. L. Thokp. In pursuing the very important and noble calling of medi- 
cine, Dr. A. L. Thorp has met with a degree of success, flattering in the extreme. 
He has not only shown that he is well posted in his profession, but that he can prac- 
tically apply his knowledge, and as a very natural consequence his services have 
been greatly in demand, and he is kept busy almost day and night. His ancestors 
were among the first settlers of Connecticut, from England, and one of them, on the 
maternal side, was the founder of the noted Yale College. Nathaniel Thorp, the 
grandfather of Dr. A. L. , was born in Connecticut, was a soldier in the war of the 
Revolution, and later held the rank of lieutenant in the War of 1812, and was 
killed at the battle of Black Rock, N. Y. He was married in the State of his birth 
to Miss Sarah Pay ton, and at an early day moved to Rochester, N. Y., thence to 
Cleveland, Ohio, at which time there were no white settlers iu the place and no 
houses — only a few Indian huts. He remained there but a short time, then moved 
with his family to Ashtabula county, from which place he enlisted in the last war 
with the British. His son Basil was born in an Indian hut at Cleveland, being the 
first white child born within the present confines of that city; then came Julia, War- 
ren, Abigail, Dayton and Ferris. Dayton Thorp's birth occurred in Ashtabula 
county, Ohio, April 29, 1800, and he was brought up to the hardshipsof a pioneer life. 
Although his early education was limited, he returned to the old home of his par- 
ents, Connecticiit, when a young man, where he pursued the study of medicine 
and became a physician. Catherine Countryman, who resided near Cleveland, Ohio, 
and a daughter of Conrad Countryman, of German stock, became his wife. Her 
paternal ancestors settled in Black Hawk Valley, N. Y., before the Revolution, and 
during an Indian massacre that occurred, her father, who was a small boy, hid in 
the brush for some time, subsisting as best he could. He was a blacksmith by trade, 
afterward settled at Cleveland, and died in Michigan. His wife was Cornelia Van 
Plank, of New York City, whose ancestors were among the original Dutch settlers 
of New Amsterdam. Seven children were born to Dayton Thorp and his wife: 
Alexander L., Sylvester A., Mary E., Charles W. , Calvin J., Julia M. and Paulina 
N. Mr. Thorp finally moved to Cass county, Mich., in 1833, where he cleared up a 
farm, and passed the remainder of his days, dying in 1879. He was a substantial 
tiller of the soil, and he and his wife were members of the Methodist Church, and 
took a deep interest iu religious matters, he being an exhorter in that church for 
over forty years. He was a Democrat until the Civil war, then became a Repub- 
lican. Dr. A. L. Thorp was born near Cleveland, Ohio, November 9, 1827, secured a 
good education in Cleveland Academy, after which he read medicine with his father, 
then entered the Eclectic Medical College, of Cleveland, Ohio. Later he attended 
lectures in New York City and at Ann Arbor, Mich. In 1850 he began practicing 
at Vandalia, Mich., where he conducted a very successful practice for thirty-five 
years. Since September, 1885, he has been a resident of Mishawaka, Ind. , and 
through sheer ability has built up a very large practice. He is a skillful and suc- 
cessful surgeon and medical practitioner, and has successfully battled with several 
severe epidemics, mostly in 1851 and 1857, 1858, 1859, 1860, 1863, 1873, 1876 and 
1881. In 1850 he married Sarah, daughter of H. S. Madding, of southern Illinois, 
but was called upon to mourn her death in 1851, after she had borne him a child; 
Baron C. November 14, 1855, he married Martha E. Case, a widow, daughter of 
David Burdick, and she has also borne him one child: Carrie L. Dr. Thorp is 
respected wherever he is known, and has been clerk of Penn township, was clerk of 
Cass county, Mich., for nineteen years, was justice of the peace twelve years, and 
was commissioner of highways for six years. He has been an active patron of edu- 
cational matters, has always been a strong Republican, and was one of the organ- 
izers of the party under the oaks at Jackson, Mich. He has a well selected medical 
library, and is a patron and reader of the principal medical journals. As a citizen 
he is all that could be desired, for he is patriotic, progressive and public spirited, 
and by all who have business relations with him he is justly considered that noblest 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 316 

work of God — an honest man. Dr. Thorp ia a member of the Michigan State Med- 
ical Society, the Elkhart County (Ind.) Medical Society, and is a charter member 
of the St. Joseph County Medical Society and the Indiana State Medical Society. 
His son, Baron C, is a physician of Canton, Neb. 

Vincent Bronner may be justly regarded as one of the enterprising, reliable and 
substantial citizens of Mishawaka, Ind., in the affairs of which place he has always 
shown a decided interest, and which he has aided in a very substantial manner. Hia 
father, Caspar Brunner, was born in Switzerland July 20, 1808, at Canton Aargau 
Wurenlos, and in the land of his birth received a common-school education and 
learned the tailor's trade. He was married to Barbara Brunner, who, although she 
bore the same family name, was no relative, and to them five children were born, two 
of whom died in infancy; Agnes, Peter and Vincent are the surviving members. 
Mr. Brunner was a soldier in the Sonderbund war. In 1867 he decided to seek a 
home for himself and family in America, and on December 24, of that year, landed 
at Castle Garden, New York City, from which place he came to Whitley county, Ind. , 
and one year later to St. Joseph county, taking up his residence in Mishawaka, where 
he began working at his trade. He was much respected for his sound judgment in 
the land of his birth and held the offices of alderman and justice of the peace. His 
reputation for sound and practical views followed him across the water, and he was 
soon regarded as one of the substantial men of Mishawaka. He gave his children 
good educational advantages, and being industrious and pushing, he was at one time 
the owner of a handsome property. Upon leaving Switzerland he received a pass- 
port, speaking very highly of himself and family, also a letter of introduction and 
commendation to the Catholic Church in this county, of which denomination he and 
his wife were devout members. He died in Mishawaka August 25, 1872, at the age 
of sixty-four years. After coming to this country he always identified himself with the 
Democratic party. Vincent Brunner was born in the native canton of his forefathers in 
Switzerland, where his family had been respected members of society since the sixteenth 
century, his birth occurring January 22, 1862. When about five years of age he came 
with his parents to America and received the common-school education of this coun- 
try, learning to read, write and speak both English and German fluently. At the 
age of fourteen years he began clerking in the grocery story of Frank Eberhart, 
remaining his diligent, faithful and trusted employe for six years, supporting, in 
the meantime, his widowed mother. In 1885 he borrowed $300 and went into 
partnership with H. B. Fitch, with whom he opened a grocery store in Mishawaka, 
but at the end of one year he bought out his partner and continued the business very 
successfully and profitably alone until 1888 when be disposed of his stock to his for- 
mer partner. His health being quite poor at this time, he decided to spend some 
time in Europe, and during the four months that he remained in that country he vis- 
ited Switzerland, Germany, France and Italy. While in his native land he spent 
some time at his birthplace, and, although he was quite young when he left there, 
he well remembered the old town. After his return home he once more resumed 
the grocery business in Mishawaka, but at the end of one year he sold out and turned 
his attention to farming in Penn township, to which occupation he devoted his 
attention until 1892, when he returned to Mishawaka. Mr. Brunner is in every 
respect a self-made man, and all the property of which he is now the owner he 
secured by his own good judgment and energy. He has a fine residence and lot in 
the town and has erected a tine two story brick business building on the corner of 
Bridge and St. Joseph streets, 29x80 feet in dimensions, with fine plate glass and 
metal front. The business room is ceiled with ornamental metal and the upper 
rooms are partitioned off for the use of two families. This building is one of the 
handsomest in the town. May 1, 1883, Mr. Brunner married Dora, daughter of 
Leopold and Marguerita (Raab) Deutchle, the former of whom is a farmer of Mad- 
ison township, coming to this country from Germany in 1866. He and his wife 
became the parents of the following children: Audrevy, Reuben, Wilhelmina, Dora, 



316 PICTORIAL A^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

Mary, George, Johu aud Valentine. Mr. and Mr^. Brunner have five children: Cas- 
par, Caroline, Joseph, Vincent and Victor. Mr. Brunner is a Democrat; he and his 
wife are earnest members of the Catholic Church, and he is a member of the Cath- 
olic Knights of America. He is public spirited, in favor of improvements and stands 
high in business circles. The corner-stone of his fine business building is engraved 
and contains a genealogical record of the Brunner family, extending back to the six- 
teenth century. 

Hon. W. H. Lo.vgley, ex-mayor of South Bend, and president of the Northern 
Indiana Hedge Fence Company, is a native of Elkhart county, Ind., where he was 
born on October 3, 1846, a son of Andrew and Mary Longley, natives of Pennsyl- 
vania and Elkhart county, Ind., respectively. The paternal grandfather, William 
Longley, removed from his native State to Elkhart county, Ind., about 1834, of 
which section he was among the pioneer settlers. They came thither in wagons and 
located in the vicinity of Elkhart, where Mr. Longley purchased a heavily timbered 
and very wild tract of land. The Indians were still plentiful throughout the region, 
but were not hostile. On this farm the grandfather was called from life. About 
1853 Andrew Longley came to St. Joseph county and settled on Sumption Prairie, 
where, until within a few years, he followed agricultural pursuits. Three children 
were born to himself and wife: William H. , Josephine and Mercy. William H. 
Longley, the subject of this sketch, remained with and assisted his father on the 
home farm until he was twenty-one years of age, receiving the advantages of the 
district schools in the vicinity of his rural home, his education being completed in 
Notre Dame College, from the commercial department of which he graduated in 
1867. Soon after this he entered the dry goods store of John Brownfield, where he 
remained until 1888, at which time he engaged in the manufacture of knit under- 
wear. He was one of the incorporators of the A. C. Staley Manufacturing Company, 
of which he was made vice-president, and held the office until elected to the position 
of mayor of South Bend. He is still a stockholder in this concern, and is also one 
of the incorporators of the Northern Indiana Hedge Fence Company. He is a stock- 
holder in the St. Edwards Land & Insurance Company of St. Edwards, Neb. He 
was elected mayor of South Bend in 1888, was re-elected in 1890, during which 
time he was careful to guard the interests of the city and made a very efficient 
official. In 1882 he was made councilman from the Second Ward, in which capacity 
he served one term. He is one of the leading spirits of the city, and is always a 
leader in public enterprises. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., the K. of P., 
being a charter member of Crusade Lodge, No. 14, and also belongs to the Uniform 
Rank. He has been a married man since 1872, at which time Miss Helen Searle 
became his wife, and eventually the mother of a son and two daughters: Howard, 
Mary and Edna. Mr. Longley has a goodly amount of this world's goods, and is a 
successful and intelligent business man. 

John W. Albin. No State in the Union gives greater encouragement to a man 
who desires to devote himself to agricultural life than does Indiana. Its resources 
are almost inexhaustible and its climate is adapted to the cultivation of varied 
crops. Among the prominent and enterprising farmers of Union township, Elk- 
hart Co., Ind., stands the name of John W. Albin, who has been identified with the 
best interests of the county since 1866. He was born in Clark county, Ohio, 
September 9, 1845, and was the youngest of seven children born to the marriage of 
Samuel and Elizabeth (Adams) Albin. Samuel Albin was a native of that good old 
State, Virginia, born in 1809, and the son of John Albin, who was also a native of 
the Old Dominion, but who, at an early date, emigrated to Clark county, Ohio, be- 
ing among the early pioneers of that State. Samuel was one of a family of four- 
teen children. John Albin was a soldier in the War of 1812, as also were a number 
of his brothers, and drew a pension on account of his services. The family had settled 
in Ohio about 1810, and John Albin took up land four miles from the site of the 
present city of Springfield. There his death occurred about 1834, aud he was followed 



MEMOIRS OF INDT^L^A. 317 

sooa after by his wife. He was a man who made a good farm out of the Ohio woods, 
and he reared a large family of children. In politics he was a Democrat. The 
Albin family was of old Virginia stock and the ancestors came originally from Eng- 
land. Of John Albin's family two or three are still living and, as might naturally be 
supposed, are well along in years. A daughter, IVIrs. Charity Walburn, is still living 
in Union township, Elkhart county, and two sons, George and Benjamin, are in 
Nebraska and Kansas, respectively. The names of all the children were as follows: 
Nancy A., Joseph C, William, Samuel, Sarah, Charity, Moreland, John, Rachel, 
Rebecca, Eliza J. , Benjamin, Moses and George N. All of these were married and 
reared families. Moses was a soldier and died while in service; and George, too, 
was a soldier, serving for three years. Samuel Albin was not a year old when 
his parents emigrated to Ohio, and he was reared on his father's farm in Clark 
county. Like most farmer's boys of that day he was early trained to the duties 
of the farm, and acquired an education in a business way. About the year 1832 he 
married Miss Adams, and at the death of his father purchased the old home place 
on which he resided until his death in May, 1865. His wife was a daughter of 
John Adams, named after the President of that name, and probably one of his de- 
scendants. It is supposed that the Adams family came from Virginia and were 
early settlers of Clark county, Ohio. Mrs. Albin was born in the Old Dominion in 
1814, and was one of six children, as follows: William, David, Caroline, Elizabeth, 
Wilson and Lavina. Of these only three are living: William and David in Cali- 
fornia, and Caroline, in Clark county, Ohio. Mrs. Albin died when our subject was 
but four years of age, leaving seven children, all of whom reached manhood and 
womanhood. Her death occurred in Clark county, Ohio, and she was a worthy 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. After her death Samuel married 
Miss Anna Armstrong, who bore him two children, Malissa. who married Martin 
Walter, and now resides in Ohio, and Martha, who became the wife of Charles 
Swaney. The children born to the first marriage were named as follows: Gabriel, 
married and residing on a farm in Richland county. 111. , was a soldier in the 
late war; Nathan, died in Illinois and left a wife and family; Margaret, wife of Jasper 
Miller, resides in Illinois and is the mother of a family; Caroline married Smith 
Miller and resides in Illinois, her husband being dead; Catherine, wife of Charles 
Beatty, resides in Clark county, Ohio; Nancy A., married Robert McCullough and 
is also a resident of that county, and our subject, who is the youngest of the family. 
In politics the father of these children was a Democrat. He was a man well posted 
on all the important issues of the day and a citizen esteemed and respected. He 
held many offices of trust in the neighborhood in which he lived, took an active in- 
terest in all laudable enterprises, and was one of the foremost men of his section. 
He became quite wealthy. John W. Albin remained on his father's farm in Clark 
county, Ohio, until over nineteen years of age, when his father died. He attended 
the common schools, secured a good practical education, and after the death of his 
father started out to fight his own way in life. In 1866 he came to Elkhart county, 
Ind. , and worked at the carpenter's trade for two years. In the spring of 1869 he 
bought the farm where he now lives, and as he had about S700 when he came to 
this county, he put it all into the land. This consisted of eighty acres, and was all 
in the woods. He immediatel}' began clearing and grubbing and, as a result, has 
now one of the finest farms in this part of the county. He has been unusually suc- 
cessful as a business man and farmer and his good fortune is due to his integrity, 
honesty, business ability and the push which is lacking in so many young men. 
Mr. Albin has some fine stock on his place and is pajing considerable attention to 
the breeding of good stock. He is much interested in the political issues of the 
day and is a stanch Democrat. He has held various offices in the township, viz. : 
justice of the peace for four years, school officer, constable, etc., and was elected 
countj' commissioner, but the election being contested, has been carried to the su- 
preme court. Schools, churches and all things for the upbuilding of Elkhart county. 



318 nCTOHIAL AND BIOGliAPIIICAL 

are of interest to Mr. Albin. In his choice of a wife he selected Miss Lydia A. 
Slabaugh, and their nujjtials were solemnized in 1869. She was born August 5, 
1850, in Portage county, Ohio, and was one of three children, two of whom are 
living, born to Christian E. and Sophia (Walters) Slabaugh. Mr. and Mrs Albin 
are the parents of these children: Minnie, born February 21, 1871, is at home; Eva, 
born October 19, 1872, also at home; Mervin, born October 25, 1877; Celeste, born 
October 28, 1880, and Vera was born January 19, 1888. 

Hon. Marvin Campbell, manager sales department for Studebaker Bros. Manu- 
facturing Company, of South Bend, Ind., and treasurer of the Mishawaka Woolen 
Manufactory, is a wide-awake and successful man of business, who thoroughly under- 
stands what is required of him and fulfills these requirements in an able and highly 
satisfactory manner. His birth occurred at Valparaiso, Ind., March 13, 1849, his 
parents, Samuel A. and Harriet (Cornell) Campbell, being natives of New York and 
Ohio respectively. Samuel A. Campbell came with his father to Valparaiso when a 
lad of twelve years, or in 1832, and settled on a farm near that place which, being 
still Government land, was in a very wild state. Here Samuel A. Campbell still 
lives at the age of seventy-two years, and the laud that was then totally unimproved, 
is now a magnificent farm, on which are handsome and substantial buildings. In 
his family there were six children: Myron and Marvin (twins), Darius, Helen, Otto 
S. and Ida M. Those now living are Myron Coster, of South Bend National Bank; 
Otto S. , a farmer upon the home farm, and the subject of this sketch. He was reared 
on the old home farm in the vicinity of Valparaiso and received his education in the 
Valparaiso Male & Female College; the year of 1869 was spent as a teacher of 
mathematics in the Valparaiso High School. In 1870 he came to Soixth Bend as a 
teacher of mathematics in the high school, which position he occupied for two years, 
at the end of which time he engaged in the hardware business and followed it suc- 
cessfully for twelve years. He then sold his hardware stock to Munroe & Keltner, 
and invested in the Mishawaka Woolen Manufacturing Company, and has been con- 
nected with this concern ever since. He is one of its directors and is its treasurer, 
but only makes occasional visits to its oiSce. In 1889 he became purchasing agent 
for Studebaker Bros. Manufacturing Company, and continued in that position until 
January 1, 1893, when he was promoted to the responsible position of general man- 
ager of the sales department. The citizens of St. Joseph and Starke counties, Ind., 
showed their appreciation of his many worthy qualities by electing him to the State 
Senate and he served with distinction in the sessions of 1883 and 1885. During this 
time he made a record as an able politician and won a deserved repiitation as a 
forcible, eloquent and logical orator, and his services in this capacity' have been in 
much demand throughout St. Joseph and surrounding counties. He is now, in a great 
measure, retired from the political arena and devotes his almost exclusive attention 
to his business. He has always been an active Republican. He is a member of the 
A. F. & A. M. fraternity. In 1874 he was married to Miss Lydia A. Brownfield, of 
South Bend, and their union has resulted in the birth of three children: John B. , 
who graduated from the South Bend High School in the summer of 1892, and is 
now taking a course in the Rose Polytechnic School of Terre Haute; Harriet B. and 
Marvin R. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. She is a daughter of the late Hon. John Brownfield, a very prominent 
man of Indiana, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. 

Albert Gaylor, Mishawaka, Ind. The father of our subject is one of the old 
pioneer settlers of St. Joseph county. He has descended from German stock, his 
great-great-grandfather coming from Germany and settling in the State of New 
York. He returned to his native country, and never came back. Jacob M. Gaylor, 
Sr., the grandfather of our subject, was born in the State of New York and became 
a farmer in Rensselaer county, in that State. He married Hannah Snyder and to 
them was born one child, Jacob M., the father of our subject. Mr. Gaylor died in 
August, 1809, and his widow afterward married Eli B. Mead, a son of John Mead, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAI^A. 319 

who was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, entering at the age of fourteen and 
serving through the whole struggle. To Mr. and Mrs. Mead were born four chil- 
dren: John M., Catherine, Mary A. and Bets}'. Mr. Mead removed to Dearborn 
county, Ind., settling near Rising Sun about 1816, when the State was yet a Terri- 
tory. In 1834 Mr. Mead removed with his family to St. Joseph and settled in the 
woods in Penn township about three miles south of Mishawaka and cleared up a 
farm. Mrs. Mead, the grandmother of our subject, lived until she was almost 
eighty-nine. Jacob M. Gaylor the father of our subject, was born August 5, 1809, 
in the State of New York and was but seven years of age when the family removed 
to Dearborn county, Ind. He had received the limited common-school education 
of the day, grew up a farmer and married, November 18, 1830, Cynthia Crouch, of 
that county, became the father of one child, Eleanor, who also married, but is now 
deceased. Mrs. Gaylor died in Dearborn county, September 9, 1832, and Mr. 
Gaylor married Azubah Ferris, September 26, 1833. She was the daughter of 
Isaiah and Lucinda (Crouch) Ferris. Mr. Ferris was of old American colonial stock 
from Vermont and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. He afterward settled 
in St. Joseph county, Penn township, in 1836, near the Dixon neighborhood. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Gaylor were born three children, one who died an infant, Albert and 
Sarah A. In 1834 Mr. Gaylor removed his mother and family to St. Joseph county, 
where Mr. Mead had preceded them and built a log cabin. Mr. Gaylor made this 
journey with a four ox team, consuming about thirteen days on the way, the dis- 
tance being some two hundred miles, and after comfortably settling the family of 
Mr. Mead he returned home and in 1835 brought his own family, being fourteen 
days on the way and being accompanied by Jonathan Buck and family. Mr. 
Gaylor settled in the woods in Penn township, four miles south of Mishawaka, 
entered 120 acres of land which he cleared up and made into a good farm and here 
erected a substantial residence, barns and other farm buildings. His means were 
very limited, but by industry and thrift accumulated property. Mr. and Mrs. 
Gaylor were devout members of the Baptist Church, the former being for many 
years clerk and a deacon, holding membership with that body for fifty-nine years. 
He always felt an interest in religious matters and materiallj' assisted the churches 
at La Porte, Warsaw and Mishawaka. He was in favor of all educational meas- 
ures; served the people as school director, township trustee and supervisor, Ijeing a 
man in whom the people could repose the greatest confidence. Politically he was a 
Republican for many years, but at present he votes with the Prohibition party. 
For many years he lived on his farm, an honored and respected citizen, but in 1873 
he moved into Mishawaka, bought a residence and retired from active life. His 
wife died at the age of eighty-two years, September 3, 1892. She was a devout 
Christian, and left many friends. Mr. Gaylor's long life of eighty-three years has 
been well spent. He is one of the few original pioneers of St. Joseph county now 
living, and has been spared to see this county develop from a primitive wilderness into 
a well -cultivated section with thriving towns and a prosperous people. 

Albert Gaylor, the son of one of the honored pioneer citizens of St. Joseph 
county, and a prominent business man of Mishawaka, was born on the old Gaylor 
homestead, four miles south of the town, March 29, 1841, was there reared and at- 
tended the pioneer log school house, the best of the period. He was taught the 
duties of farm life, and at maturity married, October 31, 1865, Mary A., daughter 
of George and Mary (Kettering) Kiefer. The father of Mrs. Gaylor was born in 
Bavaria, Germany, March 25, 1812 and was educated in the common schools of the 
country. He learned the weaver's trade, which he followed until he was twenty-one 
yeiirs of age, when, in accordance with the laws of Germany, he was drafted as a 
soldier into the army, but not being needed, was granted a leave of absence, during 
which time he worked at his trade. By the law of Germany he was bound for serv- 
ice for six years, but before that time expired he sailed for America and landed at 
New York City, April 22. 1836. Almost the first thing be did after landing was to 



320 PICTORIAL A^'D BIOGRAPHICAL 

declare his intention to become an American citizen, having, in the meantime, secured 
an honorable discharge from the German army. He soon found work in a cotton 
factory, which he followed for two years, when on February 6, 1838, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Mary Kettering, whom he had known in Germany, they having attended 
the same school. They then moved to Portage county, Ohio, and began farming. 
Here they lived for seven years, after which they went to Indiana, where they re- 
mained twenty-four years. In the spring of 1871 he moved to Independence, Iowa, 
where he bought a house, and resided until his death on Xew Year's Day, 1893. 
For forty years he and wife were members of the Evangelical Church. For eight 
years he filled the office of trustee of Washington township. He was the father of 
twelve children, thirty-three grandchildren and three great grandchildren. On Feb- 
ruary 6, 1888, their children, with a few friends, gathered at the home and cele- 
brated the golden wedding of their parents in an appropriate manner. Mr. Kiefer 
had always been regarded with feelings of great esteem by the citizens of all classes 
and parties. He deserved this respect in every particular, as the reward of a vir- 
tuous, well-spent life. To Mr. and Mrs. Gaylor were born four children, as follows: 
E. Victoria, born September 9, 1866; John F., born October 21, 1869; Ralph W., 
born October 9, 1873, and Mable E., born April 17, 1879. Mr. Gaylor remained on 
the home farm, which he managed for his father until 1872, being a substantial 
farmer and a man who commanded the respect of the people of the township. In 
his political opinions he is a stanch Republican, and has acceptably filled the office 
of assessor of Penn township for five years, and has been a member of the Misha- 
waka council for three years; the office of township trustee of Penn township for 
four years, from 1881 to 1884. Mr. Gaylor has taken an active interest in the pub- 
lic schools of Mishawaka, and has been on the board of education for a number of 
years. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Church, in which body he 
has held the offices of steward and trustee. Socially he is a Mason and a member 
of Mishawaka Lodge, No. 130, also a member of the chapter and council and the 
Commandery Knights Templar of South Bend. Mr. Gaylor has filled all of the 
chairs in the Mishawaka Lodge and Council. In 1873 he removed to Mishawaka 
and engaged in the grocery business five years. He built the first wood pulp-mill 
in St. Joseph county, in 1877, and this mill was the first of its kind in the State. 
He remained in this business until the spring of 1887, when he founded the firm of 
Gaylor & Doolittle and engaged in the agricultural implement business, the firm 
also dealing in wood, coal, tiling, etc. Mr. Gaylor is a first-class citizen and owns 
a tasteful and commodious residence on the north side of the town, opposite the 
park. His children have all received an excellent education, all being graduates of 
the Mishawaka High School, except the youngest, who is now pursuing the same 
course. His sons also received a commercial education in Chicago and in South 
Bend. His daughter, E. Victoria, has been a successful teacher in the B grammar 
department, in the Mishawaka public schools for seven years. John F. is an expert 
stenographer in the general freight office at Chicago of the Michigan Central Rail- 
road Company, receiving his commercial education in Chicago. Ralph W. is also 
an expert stenographer in the office of the Wisconsin Central Depot, at Chicago, for 
J. Hawn, manager of the Wisconsin Central. Mr. Gaylor is one of the success- 
ful business men of Mishawaka and stands high as a man of character whose 
integrity is unimpeached. He is the agent of Robbin Battell, of New York City, 
a large property holder in St. Joseph county, to whom the people of Mishawaka 
owe the beautiful Battell Park on the north side. 

Charles A. Brehmer, architect. With the increase in population, refinement and 
wealth in the cities of the United States, has arisen a growing demand for the blend- 
ing of the artistic, and the beautiful with the utilitarian in architecture. The results 
have been extremely gratifying to the advocates of progress in this most vitally 
important profession. Among those who have acquired a wide reputation for their 
skill and artistic conception, ranks Charles A. Brehmer, who was born in Glencoe, 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 321 

111., September 23, 1860, a son of Charles A. and Mary (Uthe) Brehmer, the former 
a native of Alsace, France (now Germany), and the latter born in this country, but 
of German parentage. The father came to this country prior to his marriage, 
was finely educated and possessed business ability of a high order. He could 
write three different languages, speak seven different tongues, which fact made his 
services very valuable and much sought after. He was the manager for a New York 
syndicate in a large brick-yard and later iilied the same position in the Michigan 
lumber camps, but ended his days on a farm in the vicinity of Lansing, Mich., in 
July, 1891, his death occurring very suddenly. His wife had been called from life 
four years earlier. They were the parents of three sons and two daughters: Charles 
A., Louis, Frank (deceased), and the two daughters deceased. The subject of this 
sketch was principally reared in Bay City, Mich., where he received his primary 
education in the public schools. He then entered the University of Notre Dame, in 
which institution he went through a course of training in all the building trades. 
This training occupied six years of schooling, and after leaving that institution he 
went to Bay City, Mich., where he took a two-years' course of instruction under that 
well-known lumberman and architect — James Shearer. In 1884 Mr. Brehmer 
returned to South Bend and worked at his trade, subsequently engaging in contract- 
ing for himself, and for two years he successfully continued both branches of his 
business. For the last four years he has turned his attention entirely to archi- 
tectural work, and among the many remarkably creditable specimens of his skill, may 
be mentioned the handsome residence of Pat O'Brien, the Shickery residence, the 
residence of Prof. Egan, the Pabst Brewing Company's building, of which he was 
the contractor, and the following buildings which he designed: Kesidences for Dr. 
P. E. Rupp, J. P. Creed, J. Rockstroh, A. W. Lee, M. Bieger, E. A. Jernegan. F. 
Hollister, L. Eliel, Edwin Witwer, J. C. Naidlhart, Frank Mayer, C. Hudson, 
Martha luwood, the Coquillard flats, and numerous others; the German Methodist 
Church, the rectory of St. Patrick's Church, the business house of Listenberger & 
Varrier, German Lutheran Church, of Woodland, six business blocks, two of which 
are four-story structures, and various other buildings. Mr. Brehmer is the leading 
architect of the city and is prominent in the social circles of the place. At present 
he is president of the board of water trustees. He is the owner of considerable 
valuable property, and, possessing good judgment and prudence, is accumulating 
■wealth. At the present time he is superintending the building of the Arlington 
Hotel of Benton Harbor, Mich. January 16, 1883, he was manied to Miss Mary A. 
Eiley, of South Bend, by whom he has six childi-en: Charles E., Gertrude, Olivia, 
Mary, Louis and Bernhard. Mr. Brehmer is a member of the C. K. of A. 

tfoHN Barkey, Mishawaka, Ind. For generations the ancestors of our subject 
have led agricultural lives. They came to America, fleeing from religious persecu- 
tion in Germany, and at the invitation of "William Penn settled in Bucks county, 
Penn., whence the family has spread, and one of its most respected representa- 
tives is John Barkey, of Mishawaka, Ind., the subject of the present sketch. Grand- 
father Barkey was a farmer in Bucks county; his sons Christian and Jacob, located 
in Wayne and Medina counties, Ohio. His son John, the father of our subject, was 
born in Bucks county, Penn.. wasreared to farm life and educated in German. The 
religion of the family was Mennonite and the children were all strictly reared. 
John married Susannah Buzzard, of Bucks county and they had a family of twelve 
children who grew to maturity and three who died young. The names of the living 
were Anna, Eachael, Catherine, Elizabeth, Margaret, Barbara, Christian, Mary, 
John, George, Peter and Isaac. In 1857 Mr. Barkey moved with his family to 
Holmes county, Ohio, and settled on 160 acres of land in the wilderness, and here 
cleared up a good farm and erected comfortable farm buildings. He became a 
minister in the Mennonite church, preached for many years and was one of the 
founders of that church in Holmes county. He was an earnest man, a good citizen 
and, like many other pioneers, could turn his hand to almost any kind of work. He 



322 PICTORIAL AND BIOGMAPUICAL 

was a fair carpenter, cooper, shoemaker and miller and lived to the age of seventy- 
nine years two months and live days, dying on his farm in Holmes county. Of 
quiet disposition and of sincere Christian character, he had regard and respect 
from all, and it was a comfort to him that he never had a lawsuit in his life. John 
Barkey, a son of the above, and subject of this sketch, was born February 25, 1828, 
on his father's clearing, in Holmes county, Ohio, in a small log cabin. His birth 
occurred one year after their removal from Pennsylvania, and he was reared among 
pioneer scenes. He was early obliged to assist in the clearing and cultivating of the 
farm and received only such education as could be acquired in the little log school- 
house which he was able to attend for a few seasons, a couple of weeks at a time. 
His father built a saw-mill and he learned to work there, so continuing until he was 
twenty-three years of age. He came to St. Joseph county in the spring of 1852, 
and worked for John Weldy, who was a pioneer of St. Joseph county, his farm being 
on the line between Elkhart and St. Joseph counties, in Madison and Olive town- 
ships. On April 19, 1855, he married Elizabeth, daughter of John and Anna 
(Ketch) Weldy (see sketch of Abraham Weldy). Mr. and Mrs. Barkey remained 
on the home farm one year, and in 1856 settled on his present farm, in the woods 
of Madison township, of eighty acres, which was a wedding present from John 
Weldy. Mr. Barkey cleared a spot, built a log cabin 18x20 feet, contain- 
ing two rooms and made comfortable with a board floor, and here two of his chil- 
dren were born and Mr. Barkey and wife spent ten years of their married life. He 
cleared up his land, and by industry and thrift added to it until he now owns 215 acres 
of fine farming land with good improvements. Both Mr. and Mrs. Barkej' are de- 
vout members of the Mennonite Church, and the former has always contributed lib- 
erally to the support and extension of his denomination. Politically, he affiliates 
with the Democratic party. To Mr. and Mrs. Barkey were born three children: 
Susannah W., born December 26, 1862, and died August 3, 1863; an infant un- 
named, born April 10, 1866, and Levi W. , born September 29, 1869. Mr. Barkey 
is one of the practical and substantial farmers of Madison township, has seen St. 
Joseph county grow from a wilderness into a well-developed and prosperous sec- 
tion. He and his faithful wife have labored hard to improve their surroundings and 
his honorable and blameless life is one to be commended. Levi W., the only child 
of the above, was born on the old homestead and was sent to the common schools of 
the district, this education being supplemented by attendance at the normal school 
at Valparaiso, Ind. He became a practical farmer and was married February 1, 
1890, to Lizzie M., daughter of Daniel and Nancy (Metzler) Huntzberger. They 
have one child, Elmer H., born April 19, 1891. He is a young man of enterprise 
and industry, and manages the home farm. In 1863 the father of this young man 
brought the first portable saw-mill to Madison township. It had a circular saw, and 
was the first portable mill for twenty miles around, being at that time a great curi- 
osity, visitors coming for miles around to see it. The original name of this family 
may have been spelled Berkey. 

Jacob Minnick, Mishawaka, Ind. The subject of the present biography is one 
of the prominent old settlers of St. Joseph county, and one of the substantial pio- 
neer farmers of Penn township. He is of good old Pennsylvania Dutch stock. His 
grandfather, Jacob Minnick. was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, was a farmer in 
Bucks county, married a Miss Storm, and became the father or eight children: 
Jacob, John, Joseph, Samuel, William, Catherine, Polly and Margaret. Jacob 
Minnick moved to the State of Ohio about 1812, and settled in Stark county while 
it was still a wilderness. He cleared up a good farm of 160 acres, but after his 
sons grew up he sold this farm and bought forty acres with a saw-mill, and here 
passed the remainder of his days. He was a hard-working, honorable, pioneer citi- 
zen, and both he and his wife were members of a pioneer church. He was respected 
by all, and when his death occurred suddenl)', at the age of seventy-one years, he 
■was lamented by many. Jacob Minnick, a sou of the above and the father of our 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 323 

subject, was born in Bucks comity, Penn. , and received only a limited common-school 
education, but could read and write. He learned the trade of tanner, and married 
in Center county, Penn. , Susan Harvey, also of Pennsylvania, of Dutch stock, and 
to them were born nine children, as follows: John, William, Jacob, Joseph, Betsy, 
Polly, Catherine, Sarah and Susan. Mr. Minnick removed to Ohio in 1816, and 
died at the age of forty-two years. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, and 
an industrious, hard-working, honorable man. Jacob Minnick, his son and our 
subject, was born in Pennsylvania and was six weeks old when he was brought to 
Stark county, Ohio, by his parents, and was but twelve years of age when his father 
died, and he was brought up by his grandfather from the time he was two years of 
age. His early education was received in the pioneer log cabin schoolhouse, where 
the door was hung on wooden hinges and the latch was a wooden one, with the 
string hanging out. His school days were contained in six weeks during youth, but 
after he was eighteen years of age he went to school two months one winter. 
Later in life he was quick and accurate at figures, computing interest correctly 
in his mind and never using the pencil. Those were the days when boys 
learned to work, and his case was no exception, as at that time there was 
much work that fell to the share of the boys that now can be done by 
machinery. He helped to thresh the grain, and rode the horse that trampled it out 
on the barn floor. He was an inmate of his grandfather's home until he was eight- 
een years of age, at which time he learned the trade of plasterer. He made a bar- 
gain which he soon realized was not a just one, and so refused to fulfill it, receiving 
for his services twelve shillings with which he bought six yards of muslin for two shirts. 
He then engaged on the Ohio Canal, as a driver on the tow-path, later going to 
school for two months, and working that winter for his board. Following this he worked 
on the farm for Jacob Myers, for several years, and January 30, 1845, married Mary 
A. Baker, a daughter of Jonathan and Theresa (Adams) Baker. Mrs. Minnick 
descended from the distinguished Adams family, of New England, and the Bakers 
were of Pennsylvania stock. Jacob Adams was a second cousin of John Adams, 
the President of the United States, and he was the grandfather of Mrs. Minnick. He 

was born in Adams county, Penn., a son of Adams, who came from New England 

at an early day, and settled in Pennsylvania, and from whom Adams county took its 
name. Jacob Adams was a man of prominence and education, and became a wealthy 
citizen. To Mr. and Mrs. Minnick were born six children: Louisa M. , George W., 
Amanda M., Ruthannah L., Ellen T. and Laura A. After marriage Mr. Minnick 
lived for five years in Stark county, Ohio, but in the spring of 1849 came to St. 
Joseph county, Ind. He made the removal with a span of horses and a farm wagon, 
being thirteen days on the way, leaving Stark county May 2, and arriving in Mish- 
awaka on the 15th of the same month. One week later he bought eighty acres 
of his present farm. At this time he was in limited circumstances, having one pair 
of horses, a wagon and $320 in cash. At that time he had a wife and one child. 
Forty acres of his land had been chopped over for charcoal, and there was a log 
cabin on the place. For this land he agreed to pay |1,000, paying §300 down. 
There were thirty acres of grass on the place and eighteen acres of wheat. By 
hard work, thrift and economy, Mr. Minnick added to his farm, until he now owns 
200 acres with substantial buildings. He has reared a large family, and has given 
them educational advantages. His daughter, Amanda, was educated at St. Mary's 
Academy, and taiight in Mishawaka and district schools for a period of thirteen 
years, becoming proficient as well as a veteran in the profession. Ellen at- 
tended school at Valparaiso, and taught ten terms in the county. All of the chil- 
dren are now married, and well settled in life. He has made his way by the dint of 
hard work and honest endeavor, and deserves the esteem which he receives through 
the county. Politically he is a Republican, having formerly been an old line Whig. 
WiLBERT W.\RD, attomev at law of South Bend, Ind. This gentleman is one 
who has attained a considerable degree of eminence in the lines of his profession 



334 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPUICAL 

and, although young, has gained an excellent reputation as an advocate and coun- 
selor. He is a native of the county in which he resides, his birth occurring April 29, 
1861, his parents being George and Jane (Cobb) Ward, both natives of this county 
also and now residents of Clay township. The paternal grandfather, George "Ward, 
settled in this region about 1837 and resided here until his death, which occurred in 
the spring of 1885. His son George is a farmer by occupation and is a man who 
possesses many worthy traits of character. He and his wife became the parents of 
the following children: Wilbert; Albert; Cora, wife of Richard Hicks; Mertie and 
Grace. Wilbert Ward grew up in the town of Mi.shawaka, attending the high 
school of that place, until he was thirteen years of age when he removed onto a 
farm with his parents, and although still attending the Mishawaka School he became 
accustomed to farm work daring his vacations. At the early age of seventeen years 
we find him in a school-house as a pedagogue, at Dutch Island School of Penn town- 
ship, thence Stover School-house of Clay township, which was in his home district, 
where his brothers and slaters were among his pupils. In the fall of 1880 he ma- 
triculated at De Pauw University,and the succeeding winter taught a term of school in 
Portage township, after which he returned to De Pauw University and graduated 
from that institution in June, 1884. The winter of 188-l:-5 was spent as the prin- 
cipal of the Clayton High School of Hendricks county, but he spent the following sum- 
mer reading law in the office of Williamson t*c Daggy, of Greencastle, Ind. The 
next winter he completed his law course in De Pauw University, but just prior to 
graduating he went to Anderson, Ind., where he accepted the principalship of the 
high school, finishing that term and remaining till June, 1888. He immediately 
located in South Bend, and has built up a professional reputation that places him 
among the leading members of the St. Josejjh county bar. He is discharging the 
duties of deputy collector of internal revenue, and at the present time is the nomi- 
nee on the Republican ticket for the office of State representative. He was married 
in Anderson, Ind., to Alice Chearhart, by whom he has one child, Wilbert. He and 
his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and he is one of the board 
of managers of the St. Joseph County Loan Association and is the efficient attorney 
for the Workingmen's Loan Association. He has won a wide reputation as an ad- 
vocate and counselor, and the prospect of future brilliant achievements lies before 
him in long years of continued usefulness. All that he has attained has been the 
fruit of self-culture and self development and his remarkable capacity for hard 
work. His is a fitting career for the emulation of young aspirants for legal honors. 
Jacob O. Kantz. Mr. Kantz, a resident of Nappanee, Ind., was born Novem- 
ber 12, 1857, in Snyder county, Penn., and comes of a prominent German family, 
the Kantz, Kents, Kauts and Kentz in this country having originated from the same 
German family, Kantz. Our subject was sixth in order of birth of ten children born 
to Jacob and Elizabeth (Aumiller) Kantz. Jacob Kantz, Sr., was born in Snyder 
county, Penn., February 14, 1815, and was the son of Philip and Lavina Kantz, and 
one of five children. His parents died in the Keystone State and three of the chil- 
dren emigrated toward the setting sun, two settling in Indiana and one in Ohio. 
Those who came to Indiana settled in Bristol, Elkhart county, one in 1852 and 
Jacob Kantz, Sr. , in 1866. He had married in his native State Miss Aumiller, a 
native of Snyder county, Penn. , born in 1825, and one of five children born to the 
marriage of George Aumiller. Mr. Aumiller was born in Pennsylvania and passed 
his entire life in that State. His family was of German and Swedish descent. Mrs. 
Kantz was the only one of her family to settle in the Bristol neighborhood. Mr. 
Kantz and his wife are members of the Evangelical Church, and he was for many 
years a member of the Masonic fraternity. He is now a retired farmer and owns a 
comfortable home near Bristol. In politics he was formerly a Democrat, but he 
now affiliates with the Prohibition party. He held office and many prominent pub- 
lic positions in his Eastern home and is highly esteemed wherever he resides. Of 
his children. Christian N. resides at Bristol and is married; J. Edward, also mar- 



MEMOIRS OF IXDI-LXA. 325 

ried, resides at the same place; Philip, also at Bristol, is a widower; Jacob 0.,the 
subject of this sketch, resides in Nappanee; Abbie W. is at Bristol, uumarried; 
George A., married, resides at Bristol; Sarah E., wife of B. H. Bidford, of Elkhart; 
and Anna, at home. Jacob O. Kantz was a lad of eight years when his parents 
moved to this county in 1866, and he attended the common school of his district. 
Soon after this his parents moved to Vandalia, Mich., where he attended the graded 
school. Later his parents returned to Hoosierdom and again settled at Bristol, 
where our subject finished his schooling in the graded schools at that place. He 
fitted himself for teaching and followed this profession in Elkhart county for ten 
years, five years in the graded schools at Nappanee. For the past two years he has 
not followed that profession, but has been engaged in the insurance and loan busi- 
ness. He was very successful as an educator and was well known as one of the 
best instructors of the county. He has a sister who is now teaching school at Bris- 
tol. Mr. Kantz was married September 5, 1881, to Miss Flora E. Truex, a native 
of Elkhart county and daughter of Jesse and Susan Truex, who were among the 
early settlers of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Truex, now reside in Goshen, but their 
home was formerly in Union township. Mrs. Kantz was born July 3, 1858, and is 
one of two children, her brother, Thomas O. Truex now residing in Goshen. She 
attended the district school in the country, also the normals of Nappanee and 
Goshen, and became a teacher, following this in the schools of the county for a 
number of years. Mr. and Mrs. Kantz moved to the farm three and a half miles 
east of Nappanee and there they made their home for two years. In 1884 they 
took up their residence in Nappanee and this city has been their home since. Their 
marriage has been blessed by the birth of three children, a son and two daughters: 
Thomas E. , born December 28, 1882; Grace, born July 28, 1884, and Pansie B., 
born February 27, 1887. Mrs. Kantz is a member of the Methodist Church. So- 
cially Mr. Kantz is a member of the K. of P. Lodge, No. 287, of Nappanee, and 
has held many offices in the same. Formerly an Independent, he is now a Pro- 
hibitionist, and is a public-spirited man, assisting so far as able to further all worthy 
movements. He is much interested in educational work and is a well-informed 
man, keeping along with the times. 

Jacob B. Bowers, Mishawaka, Ind. The subject of the present sketch is one 
of the prominent farmers and old-soldier citizens of St. Joseph county. Jacob 
Bowers, the grandfather of our subject, was of Pennsylvania Dutch stock and 
served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war. He married and settled in Stark 
county, Ohio, entering 160 acres of land, twelve miles north of Canton. He was 
one of the pioneers, settling as early as 1802 when Stark county was yet a wilder- 
ness. He reared a family of whom the following are remembered: John, Jacob, 
Frederick, Sallie, Elizabeth and Mary. He died in Stark county and was buried in 
Uniontown Cemetery. Frederick Bowers, sou of the above and father of our sub- 
ject, was born in Bedford county, Penn. , went to Stark county with his parents 
when but eight years of age and received but a limited common-school education. 
He was reared among the pioneers and married Elizabeth Coxen, and to Mr. and 
Mrs. Bowers were born five children, as follows: Rachel, Jacob B., William, Henry 
and Catherine. Rachel died at the age of forty-three years, a married woman, the 
wife of a soldier, Isaac Shriver, who served three years in the same regiment and 
company with our subject and died after the war, from the effects of army life. 
Mr. Bowers had a farm of eighty acres, in Stark county, and died on his farm at 
the age of eighty-six years. Mrs. Bowers also died on their farm at the age of 
seventy-six years. He was an invalid the latter portion of his life, but was a man 
of great integrity of character. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bowers were devout Christians 
and members of the Reformed Church. Jacob B. , son of the above and our sub- 
ject, was born on his father's farm in Stark county, Ohio, October 29, 1841. He 
received but a limited education, as the schools of his day in that locality were 
not very good, and at the age of twelve years he began to work out from home, so 



326 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPIIIGAL 

contiauing for several years, but from sixteen to twenty years he worked on the 
home farm. Just before he attained his majority, President Lincoln issued his 
call for 300,000 men, and our subject enlisted at Uniontown, in Stark county, and 
was mustered in and enrolled at Massillon, Ohio, August 14, 1862, to serve three 
years or during the war and was honorably discharged, by reason of the expira- 
tion of his service, at Murfreesboro, Tenn., June 22, 1865. He was held with his 
regiment until July 5, when the regiment was paid ofF. On account of meritorious 
service, he was made a corporal and served from September 18, 1862, in this ca- 
pacity, acting part of the time as sergeant. His service was in Kentucky, near 
Covington, and then in Ohio, doing provost duty at Cincinnati during the winter of 
1862-3, and then was sent to Nashville, Tenn., where he was made a guard on the 
Nashville & Chattanooga Railroad. Here he came in frequent contact with some 
of Generals Forrest's and Wheeler's forces. The regiment had several severe skir- 
mishes with Generals Forrest, Hood and Wheeler. When Hood made his raid on 
Nashville the engagement lasted more than a week. The Union troops followed 
him from Franklin to Nashville and his retreat was one continual fight and 
the regiment was under severe fire every day. Thirty of the companions of 
our subject were taken prisoners, from the block houses, while guarding the rail- 
road. Mr. Bowers was an active and efficient soldier, was neither wounded nor 
taken prisoner; was in active duty with the regiment except one month while sick 
in camp; did not go to war for fame, but in duty to our Government call for troops, 
in defence of our country and its flag. His brother, William, of the same regi- 
ment, died of typhoid fever in the hospital at Cincinnati, in 1863. After his return 
home, Mr. Bowers married, in Stark county, Leah, the daughter of David and 
Nancy (Flory) Hoover, and to Mr. and Mrs. I3owers have been born four children: 
Joseph B. , Clemma, Carrie E. and Grace. Mr. Bowers lived in Stark county until 
1879, engaged in farming and in carpenter work. When he came to Indiana he 
first bought land in Elkhart county and lived there one year, but in 1882 he 
came to St. Josejih county and settled in Mishawaka, where he followed the busi- 
ness of contracting and carpenter work. He lived five years in the town and then 
bought the present farm in 1887, consisting in all of 130 acres. By industry and 
good management he has made a good farm here, has put many improvements on 
the place and has erected a substantial residence, barns and all of the necessary 
out-buildings for a modern farm. His children have all been well educated, at- 
tending the schools of the town and district, and Clemma also attended the normal 
school at Valparaiso. She married Edwin Kreps and they reside in Toledo, Ohio. 
Carrie and Grace are at home. Joseph B. learned the telegraph business in the 
Lake Shore office, at Mishawaka; has been operator and agent on the Lake Shore 
& Western Railroad for two years at Tomahawk Lake, Wis. Mr. Bowers is a 
member of the G. A. R. at Mishawaka, and both he and wife and all the children 
are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bowers is an honorable and re- 
spected citizen, who did not hesitate about his duty when he was called upon to 
testify as to his loyalty. David Hoover, the father of Mrs. Bowers, was of Penn- 
sylvania-German stock and was brought by his father, William Hoover, to Stark 
county, Ohio, when but four years of age. William Hoover was one of the pioneers, 
settling there about 1811, while the Indians were still living in the vicinity. David 
Hoover was reared and became acquainted with the hardships of pioneer life, 
grew up a farmer and married there. He became a well situated man and died 
on his farm, in 1889, aged eighty-two years. He was the father of seven children: 
Elias, Moses, Simon, Samuel, Caroline, Leah and Lydia, all born in Stark county. 
Both Mr. and Mrs. Hoover were members of the Baptist Church and he was an 
honorable and upright man. The Bowers family on both sides are descended 
from good old colonial stock, were soldiers in the Revolutionary war and both 
pioneers and patriots. Grandfather Coxen, on the maternal side of the Bowers 
family, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war and lived to a good age. Mrs. 




Slhji^ B^LDWIiSI. 



MEilOIRS OF IXBI.iyA. 329 

Cosen lived to the great age of ninety-four years. This is a family that can 
claim good stock as far back as it can be traced. 

Waltek a. Funk has applied himself with earnestness and determination to the 
practice of law and has become recognized as a sound and able lawyer, of unques- 
tioned integrity and high character. He is now pursuing the lines of his pro- 
fession in South Bend, and has built up a clientage which is in every way satis- 
factoiy. He was born in Elkhart county, Ind., December 18, 1857, son of William 
and Catherine (Myers) Funk, who were born in Northampton county, Penn., and Co- 
lumbiana county, Ohio, respectively. In 1854 they removed from Wayne county, 
Ohio, to Elkhart county, Ind., and settled six miles west of Goshen, where the 
father operated a steam saw-mill which was the first in that section of the country. 
Mr. Funk now resides in Elkhart, where he is well known and highly respected. 
Walter A. Funk spent the first seventeen years of his life on a farm, and his initiatory 
educational training was received in the common country schools, but he was 
sufficiently intelligent to make the most of his opportunities, and at an early age we find 
him teaching a country school, attending school at Goshen and the Northern 
Indiana Normal School. He graduated in the scientific course of the latter institu- 
tion in 1881, after which he accepted a position as principal of the school of Ben- 
ton for one year, after which he served as principal of the Bristol school a like 
length of time. In 1884 he entered the office of A. Anderson as a law student, 
and in 1885 graduated from the law department of the Michigan University of Ann 
Arbor, and the following year, for the practice of his profession, located in South 
Bend, where he has built up a large and satisfactory patronage. He practices in all 
the courts aud is remarkably well adapted for his chosen profession, for he is 
versatile, quick to grasp at ideas and thoroughly understands the intricacies and 
most delicate points of the law, and has the power to present his ideas in a forcible, 
concise and clear manner, that is very convincing to judge and jury. He was 
deputy prosecuting attornev of the county for two years, and at the present time 
is the attorne}' for several important corporations. He has taken an active interest 
in politics and was the Republican candidate for State senator in 1892. He 
was married April 21, 1892, to Miss Mayme E., daughter of Mrs. Mary Harris, of 
South Bend, and lives at 705 Colfax avenue. 

George S. Walters has been successful from a pecuniary standpoint in the con- 
duct of his affairs, and is a liberal, generous and high-minded gentleman, whose cor- 
rect mode of living has gathered about him a large circle of friends and well-wish- 
ers. He was born at Hesse Cassel, Germany, April 14, 1844, the fourth child born 
to Justin and Elizabeth Walters, who brought him to America when he was about 
three years old, the voyage thither occupying about six weeks. They landed at Bal- 
timore, but at once moved to Ohio, and in 1853 came to Indiana, settling first in 
Harrison township and sis years later in Union township. In 1859 they took up 
their residence on the farm on which the mother is still living with her daughter 
Lydia. At that time it was a typical pioneer farm of Indiana, for it was heavily 
wooded, and little or no improvements had been made. They at once set to work to 
clear it, and as their means at that time amounted to the sum of S80 they found it 
necessary to work early and late it order to keep the wolf from the door and to pro- 
vide themselves with the common necessaries of life. The father was a weaver by 
trade, and for a number of years wove all the cloth which covered his family. Their 
labors were in time rewarded and they eventually became possessed of a good prop- 
erty. The father paid the last debt of nature about 1869, his death occurring in the 
month of March, at which time, and for many years prior, he was a worthy member 
of the Mennonite Church. George S. Walters attended the schools of Elkhart county, 
mostly in Union township, and in the neighborhood where he now lives the prin- 
cipal part of his life has been spent. At the age of twenty-two years he took unto 
himself a wife in the person of Miss Susan Ernest, daughter of George W. and 
Eachel (Nagle) Ernest, both of whom were born in Pennsylvania, the father being 



330 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

now a resident of Nappanee. Mrs. Walters was the oldest of their three children, 
and was born in Cumberland county, Penn., on August 27, 1843. She was five or 
six years of age upon coming to this county, and upon her father's farm in Union 
township she attained womanhood, obtaining a good education in the district schools 
near her nome. She married Mr. Walters at the age of twenty-one years, and with 
him settled on the old Walters homestead, where they resided two years, then rented 
a farm near Ulry school-house, and after making one more change to the Fritz farm, 
on which he remained for two years, bought the place on which he now resides, 
which consisted of eighty acres, and was only improved by a log house, stable, 
and twenty-five acres of cleared land. He now has a farm that is as well improved 
as any in the county, and has so conducted his business that he has been able to 
improve it with a handsome house and also in numerous other ways. He has a fine 
barn capable of holding a large amount of hay and stock, and is engaged in general 
farming and stockraising and in the winter devotes his attention to dealing in lum- 
ber. He has prospered in all his business undertakings, and this is, no doubt, owing 
to the fact that every detail of his work has been carefully looked after, and that he 
is energetic and honest. Like all public-spirited and intelligent gentlemen he isquite 
popular in the Republican party. His family consists of nine children: Frank, born 
August 30, 1866, is married to Sarah J. Hartman, daughter of Tobias Hartman, of 
Nappanee, and they have a little son. Bay; Frank Walters lives in Nappanee and is 
a clerk in Hartman' s store; the next child of Mr. Walters is Alice E. who was born 
February 1, 1869, has taught eight terms of school in Elkhart county, and is now 
taking a teacher's course at Valparaiso, Ind. ; Ida was Ijorn May 22, 1870, is quite 
a skilled musician, and is at home with her parents; Jesse, who was born Decem- 
ber 29, 1872, assists his father on the farm, and has also manifested a taste for 
music; Milo, born January 19, 1874; Ira, born April 7, 1878; Oscar, born June 29, 
1881; Bertie, born August 26, , and Vernon, born October 3, 1887. Two chil- 
dren died in infancy. Mr. Walters has endeavored to give his children good advan- 
tages, and as a result he has a bright and intelligent family, who give every promise 
of becoming an honor to their parents. During the Civil war between the North 
and South Mr. Walters was a soldier in the Union army, serving in Company I, 
Indiana Volunteers, but was taken sick with measles and returned home. Mrs. Wal- 
ters' parents were native Germans, and her mother's maiden name was Dedrick. 
They were the parents of three daughters. 

Jacob Ward, Mishawaka, Ind. Among the substantial farmers and soldier- 
citizens of St. Joseph county our present subject holds a prominent position. George 
Ward, father of our subject, was of good old Pennsylvania Dutch stock, a native 
of Maryland, who went to Ohio when a young man and married in Montgomery 
county, of that State, Catherine Wagner, daughter of Jacob Wagner, a farmer of 
Montgomery county. To Mr. and Mrs. Ward have been born nine children: Chris- 
topher, Daniel, Elizabeth, Simeon, Jacob, Nancy, George, John, who died at the age 
of eighteen years, and Andrew. Mr. Ward came to St. Joseph county, Ind., between 
1839-41 and settled between Mishawaka and South Bend, north of the river. He 
lived here two years and then settled on the farm now owned by Paul Judy, in Clay 
township, living here ten years, and partially clearing it up. He then settled one 
and a half miles northeast, where he bought 110 acres in the woods, cleared it and 
made here another good farm, added improvements, made everything first class, and 
this farm is now owned by Simon and Jacob Ward. His wife died many years 
before him and Mr. Ward spent his last days among his children, living to be eighty- 
seven years old and dying in 1885 at the residence of his grandson, Daniel Ward. 
Mr. Ward was an old farmer of Clay township and when he settled there it was a 
wilderness where wolves, deer and Indians roamed at will. Mr. Ward was a very 
industrious man and endured all the vicissitudes of pioneer life. He and wife were 
members of the Lutheran Church, and he was an honest, upright and peaceable man 
who never had a lawsuit and was respected by all. Jacob Ward, his son and our 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAS^A. 331 

snbject, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, April 14, 1833, and thinks he was 
eight years old when he came with his parents to St. Joseph county, Ind. The journey 
was made with a j'oke of white cattle aod one horse, hitched to an old-fashioned 
linchpin wagon. Jacob was brought up among the pioneers and went to school in 
the old log school-house about three terms, which educational advantages were 
distributed between the ages of nine and fourteen years. He early began to assist in 
the clearing of the land, packing brush, etc. , and learned the life of a farmer by prac- 
tical experience and also the trade of cooper. He married, March 11, 1851, at the 
age of nineteen years, Catherine Replogle, born December 28, 1832, in Goshen, 
Ind., daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Baker) Replogle. Daniel Replogle was of 
sterling Pennsylvania Dutch stock and one of the old pioneer settlers of Elkhart 
county and was the father of eight children: Mary, Warren. Catherine, Levina, 
George, Noah, Warren and Martha. Mr. Replogle lived to the age of seventy-eight 
years and died at the farm at Crum's Point, Md. Both himself and wife were mem- 
bers of the United Brethren Church, and he was an honorable, hard-working man. He 
had two sons in the Civil war: Noah and William; the former served three years in an 
Indiana regiment and William was killed, after two years' service in an Indiana 
regiment, in battle on the same day upon which President Lincoln was shot. After 
marriage Mr. Ward settled in Mishawaka and followed coopering until he enlisted, 
at which time he was managing a business, having eight men in his employ. In 
May, 18 — , he, with John Quigg, of Mishawaka, entered Company H, One Hundred 
and Thirty-eighth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served five months, 
his principal service being guarding the railroad through the Cumberland Mountains. 
Mr. Ward was injured by the exposure and was taken sick with pneumonia, was 
confined to the hospital for a week and has since then been not quite well. He 
served as nurse in the general hospital in Nashville for about one month, but was 
honorably discharged with his regiment at Indianapolis and returned to Mishawaka. 
He then resumed his business of coopering, employing men, but was not able to 
work himself. In 1870 he bought sixty acres of his present farm and by thrift and 
economy has added to this until he now owns 130 acres of good land with good 
improvements. To Mr. and Mrs. Ward have been born five children: Jane, Eliza- 
beth, Daniel, Adelbert and Minnie. Mrs. Ward is a member of the Christian Church 
of Mishawaka. Politically Mr. Ward is a stanch Republican. He is a public-spirited 
man, in favor of good schools, is now a member of the school board and has given 
his childi-eu all a good education. Jane married James Van Reper. a farmer of 
Penn township, and has three children. She was formerly married to John Keisler, 
deceased, and they have one child. More. Elizabeth married Frank Fiddler, a tinner, 
of Mishawaka, and has three children; Daniel married Sarah Miller, who is a farmer, 
living one mile from the old homestead and they have five children; Albert married 
Minnie Maynard at Toledo, Ohio, and Minnie married William Martin, a farmer on 
the old homestead, and has one child. Mr. Ward has always stood high as a 
respected and honored citizen of Penn township, and has seen the county grow 
from a wilderness to its present flourishing condition. He was always an industrious 
man, but since the war has been disabled. The family descends from good, old 
pioneer stock on both sides and may well take an honest pride in the sterling 
ancestry from which they spring. 

Very Rev. Edward Sorin, founder of the University of Notre Dame, and one 
of the most noted of Indiana divines, was born in Ahuille, near Laval, France, 
in the year ISl-t. His extended learning and deep piety always attracted to him the 
different elements of society on which he invariably left a strong impress for good. 
When twenty-six years old he attached himself to the congregation of the Holy 
Cross, a society then recently formed at Mans for the education of youth and the 
preaching of missions to the people. To both these labors Father Sorin devoted his 
life. At the solicitation of the bishop of Vincennes in 18-11, in company with six 
companions, he came to America for the purpose of establishing a branch society. 



332 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

The vear following the bishop of Vincennes gave them a tract of wild land on the 
banks of the St. Joseph Kiver on condition that a college be built there. This was 
originally purchased in 1830 from the Government by Father Badin, the first Cath- 
olic priest ordained in the United States. The new owners changed the name from 
St. Mary's to Notre Dame du Lac, since abbreviated to Notre Dame. The trials 
and adversities under which Father Sorin and his associates labored were incredible. 
On their wild tract of laud they were first only able to build a small house. Gradu- 
ually clearings were made, land imjaroved, buildings were erected, and God, in the 
fullness of His heart, showered blessings upon their efforts. Father Sorin was the 
first president, and to his executive ability and keen foresight was due the success 
of Notre Dame. From the first he manifested a deep love .for his adopted country, 
notwithstanding his French birth, and was called American even by the Pope, who 
readily gave the apostolic sanction to his election as superior general of a chapter of 
a religious order which he was instrumental in establishing in this country in 1872. 
The memory of Father Sorin will never fade, so long as life lasts, from the hearts of 
thousands of youths whose education he has directed and to whose spiritual welfare 
he so faithfully administered. He is yet living, and although advanced in years is 
bright and yet capable of much good. 

David Rohker Leepee. Samuel Deeper, the father of the subject of this sketch, 
was a native of Washington county, Penn. ; but in early life removed with his par- 
ents to Starke county, Ohio. While yet a lad, he found his way to Montgomery 
county, in the same State, where in 1828 he was married to Elizabeth Rohrer. The 
name Deeper is supposed to be Irish; such is the family tradition, and this is par- 
tially substantiated by the fact that the name is found in early Dublin records. The 
present branch of the family was intermarried with the name Kent, thus showing an 
admixture of English blood. The Rohrers were Penusylvanians of German extrac- 
tion. One of the ancestors, Schauers, on the maternal side, came to America during 
the Revolution. It is not known when the others in the ancestral lines crossed the 
ocean, but it must have been at a very early date. The family record is very meager 
and obscure beyond the third generation from the present subject. The families on 
both sides were Protestant as far back as the record is known. Samuel Deeper, in 
company with his father-in-law, Joseph Rohrer, who was quite a conspicuous figure 
in the early history of this county, first visited the St. Joseph Valley in August, 
1829. He was so impressed with the beauty and fertility of the country that early 
in the following year he removed hither with his family from Montgomery county, 
Ohio, arriving early in March. Gen. Wayne had built a road part of the distance, 
but the balance of the way was marked only by Indian trails, there being no bridges 
or ferry-boats on any of the streams. The hardships and perils encountered on the 
route furnished subjects which he was prone often to recount in after life. Mr. 
Deeper first pitched his tent on the left bank of the McCartney Creek, which runs 
across the westerly quarter of the present city of South Bend. The site was a few 
rods north of where the Michigan road now crosses that stream. Then a winding 
Indian trail crossing the creek at this point was the only thoroughfare. It was at 
that time much trodden by the savage, in all his native paraphernalia of the war- 
path and the chase. The first habitation was improvised by stretching the wagon- 
cover across a pole supported by two forks stuck in the ground. This sheltering 
place was supplanted, as soon as quick hands and an eager heart could accomplish 
it, by a rude round-log cabin duly chinked and daubed. When snugly ensconsed 
in this structure, upon the puncheon floor, by the spacious log fire in the chimney, 
he was wont to say that this was the happiest moment of his life. His cherished 
dream was now realized — he possessed a home, a castle of his own. In this cabin 
D. R. Deeper first saw the light, January 12, 1832. Before the record of his mem- 
ory began, his parents removed upon an unbroken thickwoods tract near the Sump- 
tion Prairie road, about three miles from the few houses skirting the river and 
known as South Bend. It was a hard locality in which to dig out a living, but the 



ilEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 333 

indomitable energy and business sagacity of the father were equal to the task. He 
had little schooling or chance for schooling during his boyhood, and this fact made 
him the more anxious that his children should have better advantages in this 
respect than he had enjoyed. One of the first objects of his solicitude was to 
awaken among his neighbors an interest in education. The abandoned cabins of 
the neighborhood were utilized for school purposes. Writing desks in the shape 
of boards supported by pins in the walls, and backless benches constituted the furni- 
ture. Usually oiled paper had to do duty for windows. The first regular school - 
house of the neighborhood was built on his farm by his neighbors and himself. 
The structure was somewhat pretentious, being made of logs faced inside and out- 
side. On this farm the mother died in 1842, two children having died shortly be- 
fore and and another soon followed her. A daughter, Mary Greene, and David R. 
are the only surviving children. The father died in 1886, while on the train return- 
ing home from California. On this farm, the subject of whom we are now specially 
treating resided until he was seventeen years old, meantime enjoying such rude 
social and educational advantages as the neighborhood afforded, supplemented by 
several terms of higher schooling under the tutorship of Prof. Wright and Prof. 
Cogswell, in South Bend. He was attending school at the old seminary building 
(which in due course of the march of improvement gave way to our present elegant 
and commodious high school building) when the news of the discovery of gold in 
California set the civilized world aflame with excitement. The school boy took the 
fever so violently that he gave his father no peace till he was fitted out for the 
pilgrimage to the scene of the marvelous discoveries. In compauy with several of 
his neighbor boys, with two ox teams and an ample supply of money and neces- 
saries, he set his face thither from South Bend, February 22, 1849, the anniversary 
of the birth of our immortal George. 

Mr. Leeper furnishes the foUowinguarrativeof the journey: Thecountry was still 
very new. Often there were intervals of ten to twenty miles between settlers. Accom- 
modations for both man and beast were therefore scarce and hard to get. The 
roads were unimproved, and the streams scarcely anywhere bridged. To add to our 
discomforts and inconveniences there had been a " February thaw," general break-up 
of winter, so that the streams were all booming, and the roads, especially on the 
mushy prairies, were about as wretched as they well could be. At La Salle, 111., we 
were detained about a week by high water. Half of the town of Peru, a few miles 
below, was submerged by the floods of the Illinois. When, finally, we were enabled 
to cross (the Big Vermillion) it was by swimming our oxen, dragging our wagons 
through the aqueduct of the canal, and carrying their contents across on the heel- 
path. At Burlington, Iowa, we ferried the Mississippi, a distance of seven miles, on 
a rickety horse-ferry boat, the river being so far out of its banks that this was the 
nearest distance between the accessible landings on the opposite side. St. Joseph, 
Mo., was our objective point on the frontier. Here we were to launch directly into 
the land of the savage, a land then without autonomy and without a name. With 
the exception of a few houses at a mission not far from the Missouri River and a 
small group of mud huts at Fort Kearney and at Fort Laramie, we did not see a 
single habitation of the white man from the time we crossed the Missouri till we 
reached the Sacramento Valley, a distance by the route we took of more than two 
thousand miles. We found this frontier metropolis thronged with adventurers like 
ourselves, who had flocked thither to fit out for the journey across the plains. INIany 
had gone out and many were still coming in. The long scow or flat-boat used for 
a ferry boat, was crowded to its iitmost day and night in crossing the eager emi- 
grants over the booming " big muddy." 

Our party pushed out upon the plains on the 16th day of May. We were 
henceforward to depend entirely upon the natural grasses for feed for our teams. 
Our route from Fort Kearney lay along the Platte River; thence along the north 
fork and the Sweetwater to the south pass. Here the road branched; one branch 



334 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

leading via Salt Lake, and the other known as Sublette's cutoff, leading via Bear 
Eiver Valley. We took the latter. At the point where the Bear River makes 
a sharp deflection to the southward to lose itself in the great Salt Lake, not far from 
where the present city of Ogden stands, a choice of two routes was again offered. 
"We could proceed to Old Fort Hall on the Snake River, where the emigrant to 
Oregon and the emigrant to California must finally part company, or we might take 
a new route to the left called the Headpath's cut-off. The latter was chosen. In 
the course of two or three hundred miles westward, near the so-called City of Rocks, 
the three roads united. Thence to the Humboldt Meadows there was but one road. 
Here, instead of going via the Humboldt link, we took the Lassen or Greenhorn's 
cut-off. This led northward, crossing the great Sierra Nevada Range near the Oregon 
line, and then turning sharply southwesterly entered the Sacramento Valley near 
the present village of Vina. We thus unwittingly added several weeks to our 
journey. 

We reached this destination, practically our journey's end, on the 11th day of 
October, it having been seven months and nineteen days since we set out from home. 
We were now encamped on the banks of the Sacramento, of whose "glittering 
sands" we had sung upon leaving home. We were not long in hastening down to 
gaze upon its crystalline, magic waters. It was a moment of strange, deep, soul- 
stirring emotions. Was this indeed our journey's end? this the goal which had 
been the object of so many days, weeks, months of toil, privation, peril ? Had some 
Pythagoriau transmigration of soul overcome us ? we could scarcely have felt less 
strange, fanciful, etherial. The journey had been truly an eventful period in life's 
brief span; an episode of quaint, varied, impressive scenes, incidents and experi- 
ences, which in the ordinary dull, plodding round of life must ever remain stamped 
in vivid outline on memory's tablet. 

Except at a few points we did not see many Indians; and aside from some petty 
pilferings they gave us little trouble except at our first camp after crossing the Sierra 
Nevadas, when they stole and butchered six of our best oxen, happening to take one 
ox from each of the six teams belonging to our traveling party. With this exception 
we lost not a hoof on the route from any cause. The last day, however, was a most 
trying one upon the faithful animals. The few last days' travel before reaching the 
valley were decidedly the worst of the journey as to road and feed. The beasts bore 
up bravely till we reached the valley. Eight to ten miles were yet to make to camp. 
The strain was too great. One after another of the oxen dropped in the yoke. We 
could but let them lie where they fell and reconstruct our teams as best we could, 
thus worrying our way to camp. We were delighted next morning on observing our 
abandoned cattle grazing with the others, the coolness of the night having so 
refreshed them as to enable them to follow upon our trail. 

The story of my sojourn in California will be briefly told. We first went to 
Redding' s Diggings, at the head of the Sacramento Valley. The place did not please 
us. We started from there to Sacramento City, but the rainy season setting in and 
certain mishaps overtaking us, we became separated before reaching our destination. 
I never met my companions afterward. When I reached Sacramento City I was 
ill, penniless, and alone, having trudged through the rain and slush afoot thirty- 
six hours without food, and the clothes on my back and a pair of Mackinaw blankets 
being the sum total of my worldly possessions. My first work in the city was the 
making of several coffins from rough boards to receive the remains of some dead 
miners, who in their red shirts and blue overalls were laid out on boards in the rain 
in the rear of a hotel. From Sacramento I wandered up to near Coloma, where 
Marshall made the discovery of gold. I remained there and at Hangtown till the 
next fall, when I went north to the Trinity. I mined on this river and at Weaver- 
ville till the succeeding fall. While on the Trinity I was one of a small party that 
went afoot prospecting, on what has since become known as the Hay Fork. We 
were the first white men that ever visited the section, and the Diggers gave us a very 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 335 

warm greeting. I had an arrow sent through my leg, and another of the party an 
arrow into his foot. His was much the severer wound. He never entirely recov- 
ered from it, and a few years later the savages completed their work upon him by 
taking his life. That we were not all massacred was not from any lack of will on 
the part of the redskins. That fall I joined a party bound to Humboldt Bay with 
a view to enlist in the State militia, a call having been made for a force to suppress 
Indian depredations. The colonel was engaged in a contest for the Senate, his 
competitor being Gen. J. W. Denver, and was so engrossed in the canvass that he 
did not appear to muster us into the service. 

Humboldt Bay is the chief lumbering section of California. It is the central 
home of the Big Redwoods. The lumbering interest had just begun to be developed. 
I was among the tirst to engage in the logging business then, and I continued in 
this occupation till the 1st of May, 1854, when I sailed on the schooner "Sierra 
Nevada" for San Francisco. From the latter port on the 16th of the same month, I 
took the steamer "Brother Jonathan" for San Juan del Sud, thence crossing through 
Nicaragau via the great lake of that name and the San Juan River to Grey- 
town, where I took the steamer "Star of the West" for New York. The "Brother Jona- 
than " was afterward lost on the Oregon coast with all on board, and the " Star of the 
West" was the vessel fired upon by the rebels when she was sent by the Government 
to relieve Fort Sumter. 

After returning home, Mr. Leeper attended school several terms at the Misha- 
waka Institute, of which Prof. H. Fitzroy Bellows was principal. This schooling, 
with what he had previously acquired, gave him a pretty fair education in the ele- 
mentary English branches. His political antecedents were Whig, and when the 
Republican party was organized he became an ardent follower in its ranks. His 
zeal found frequent vent through the columns of the newspapers, his vanity in see- 
ing himself iu print being tirst gratified by a letter of his being published in the 
Indianapolis Journal in 1855. The appearance of that article in print served to 
render him the inveterate friend of the editorial craft ever since. His most ambitious 
effort with the pen is entitled "The American Idea," a production of about one 
hundred and twenty-five pages octavo. Some of his friends, for whose judgment 
he has much respect, and who have kindly examined the MS., have advised him to 
publish the work, and G. P. Putnam's Sons have ofFered to produce it in their series 
of " Questions of the Day;" but thus far the MS. has lain on the musty shelf, 
a fate which has betided myriads of performances much more worthy of the 
printer's art. 

In 1861 Mr. Leeper again set his face westward, this time going to Montana 
Territory, taking two ox teams laden with goods. He remained in the Territory till 
August, 1868, when he returned, coming by steamer down the Missouri River from 
Fort Benton to Sioux City. On this trip, when passing through the " Bad Lands," 
Mr. Leeper had the satisfaction of witnessing for the first time the Imffalo in his 
glory, and also the mortification of seeing a sample of the wanton vandalism which 
have rendered such grand spectacles things of the by gone forever. The boat was 
several days steaming through their midst, and their numbers seemed to be millions. 
While in Montana he was engaged in mining and freighting, making his headquar- 
ters chietiy at Virginia City and Helena. At Helena, in 1867, he was nominated as 
a candidate for member of the Assembly from Lewis and Clark counties. It was a 
bad year for Republican candidates, there being scarcely one of that ilk elected in 
the Territory. Though defeated, Mr. Leeper had the satisfaction of knowing that 
among the delegation of four on his ticket for that office in the county his name was 
in the lead on the tally sheets. 

Ardent a Republican as Mr. Leeper had been, he left the party in 1872, not solely 
because Horace Greeley then broke with the party, but because of the influences 
which moved so many to abandon the Republican banner at about that time. He 
was that year nominated by the Liberals and Demoerats by acclamation as a candi- 



386 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

date for the Legislature, but declined. In 187-4 he was renominated by the same 
coalition for the same office, accepted, and was elected. The platform on which he 
was nominated was independent; but having been supported by the Democrats and 
been opposed by the regular Republican nominee, he from a proper respect for his 
obligations was impelled to vote with the Democrats when the choice was squarelj' 
made as to doing that or voting with the Republicans. He supported Joseph E. 
McDonald for the United States Senate. In 1876 he was re-elected to the same 
position; served on the committee of ways and means, and on several important 
special committees. In 1878 he was elected to the Senate for the counties of St. 
Joseph and Starke by nearly eight hundred majority. The differences between the 
Liberals and Democrats, whatever they had been, had now disappeared, and Mr. 
Leeper was nominated and elected as a Democrat. During his term as senator he 
served on the committees on finance, on railroads, on education, on public buildings, 
on banks, on several committees of conference on appropriation bills, and on other 
important special committees. He fathered the bill for the present game law of the 
State, and engineered its passage through both houses. He is proud of the support 
he gave to the bill for the erection of the new State house, and the bill for the erec- 
tion of additional accommodations for the insane of the State; both of which meas- 
ures were so much needed, but which from senseless wrangling had been so long 
neglected. 

In 1882 Mr. Leeper was strongly urged from various parts of the district to 
allow the use of his name as candidate for Congress, and was also urged by Joseph 
E. McDonald, then chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee, as well as 
by many political friends at home, to stand again for the Senate. He declined 
these proffered honors to accept the nomination for auditor of St. Joseph county. 
A rather severe financial reverse, because of a defaulting city treasurer, was his 
chief reason for taking this course. Mainly because of alleged bulldozing in South 
Bend, the entire Democratic ticket in the county was defeated. 

Mr. Leeper then retired from the political arena, amusing himself afterward by 
an occasional trip to the Pacific coast and elsewhere, and by keeping up his weak- 
ness for boring ye editors. This spring (1892) the Democrats of the city of South 
Bend seemed to be in dire straits for a candidate for mayor; it was insisted that Mr. 
Leeper' s was the only name at all available. He was wholly without experience in 
municipal affairs, and felt a pronounced repugnance toward experimenting in that 
direction. But influences were brought to bear which he could not well ignore, and 
late in tihe afternoon of the convention he gave his consent to run the political 
gauntlet once more. The most of the ticket on which his name appeared was 
defeated. He is now mayor by grace of a small margin. But in all of his experi- 
ence as a candidate — and not all of them are here mentioned — be has this to boast 
of: he was in everj' case nominated by acclamation, and in every case received a 
greater vote than his party's strength. 

One quite important feature Mr. Leeper is very reluctant to mention — he never 
was married. 

Solomon Berlin (deceased). The sketch here given is that of one of the early 
pioneers of Locke township, Elkhart Co., Ind., and is a tribute paid to his many 
virtues and to the lessons which as a father he impressed upou the minds of his 
children by the example of a noble and honorable life, which, although it was 
fraught with hard labor and patient industry, was a model to his heirs of the ster- 
ling qualities that characterize a man who lived nearer to nature in its purity than 
to the artifices of society. Mr. Berlin was a native Ohioan, Ijorn in Mahoning 
county. May 26, 1827, and was a son of John and Susan (Huffman) Berlin, the 
former being a native of the Key.stone State and a son of German parents. Solomon 
Berlin was the eldest of ten children who were named as follows: Solomon, Josiah, 
Jacob, Milton, Catherine, Lydia, Mary, Lizzie, Lavina and Sarah. Catherine mar- 
ried Fred Richmond of Nappanee. Lydia married Henry Woodruff, of Lacygne, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 337 

Kan. Mary married L. B. Winder, of Nappanee. Lizzie married S. D. Coppes, of 
Nappanee. Sarah married George Green, of Ravenna, Ohio. Lavina married Eli 
Yarian, of Locke township. Josiah married Julia Slabaugh and lived in Elkhart 
county, died in 1869. Jacob entered the war in September of 1861, and was killed 
at the battle of Shiloh on the morning of the second day's tight; he was a good 
and brave soldier of the Ninth Indiana Volunteers; the Nappanee G. A. R. Post bears 
the name of Berlin, to his memory. Milton died while young. Solomon passed his 
boyhood and youth in his native State and was there married in 1852 to Miss Fianna 
Slabaugh, a native of Lancaster county, Penn. , born in 1824. Almost immediately 
after marriage this young couple emigi'ated to Elkhart county, Ind., settled on a 
farm Mr. Berlin had purchased in Locke township, Section 13, and this is still 
owned by his children. Here they experienced all the trials and privations usual to 
pioneer settlers, but they surmounted all difficulties and became prominent, sub- 
stantial citizens. The farm on which Mr. Berlin settled was part of an Indian 
reserve and in 1878 there was considerable litigation brought on by some sharpers 
and Western Indians which cost the owners of Section 13 considerable money 
to prove their claim. Solomon devoted his attention to clearing his farm and rear- 
ing his family. Soon after settling he bought an interest in a saw-mill with his 
brother Josiah. He was a prominent citizen during the war and held important 
offices of trust. In politics he was a strong Republican and a man ever deeply in- 
terested in political matters, and received nominations by his party, but was never 
elected, owing to the strong Democratic majority, although at one time there was a tie 
vote for trustee. He was a worthy member of the United Brethren Church, and for 
miiny years was a member of the Masonic fraternity and Blue Lodge of Wakarusa. 
Mr. Berlin possessed many excellent traits of character and was progressive and 
enterprising. He had a brick kiln on his place and manufactured the tirst brick in 
this part of the country. This was in 1854. He and Amos Slabaugh walked from 
Portage county, Ohio, in 1851 to this county and selected the land on which he 
located. Mrs. Berlin was but a child when her parents, Christian and Nancy 
(Rliodes) Slabaugh (see sketch of Slabaugh family) emigrated to Portage county, 
Ohio, and there she was reared and married. She was a member of the Lutheran 
Church, but was a regular attendant at the United Brethren Church. She 
was a kind mother and a lady much esteemed by all acquainted with her. 
She died June 17, 1882, when in her fifty-ninth year. These children were 
born to this honored and much esteemed couple: Helena A., died when four years 
of age; Francis E. ; Warren E. ; and Ellen Irene, died in 1871. Solomon Berlin and 
wife were among the first settlers of Locke township and from the time of settle- 
ment were identified with the early history of the same. For many years the Locke 
postoftice was located at Mr. Berlin's home and he was appointed postmaster under 
Abraham Lincoln. He received his final summons on September 22, 1872. His 
son. Francis E. Berlin, was born in Locke township, on his father's farm. May 15, 
1858, and like most of the boys of that day, he attended school during the winter 
and was busy on the farm during the summer months. After the death of his father 
he took charge of the farm and with the assistance of his brother Warren, carried 
it on successfully. He married Miss Leah M. Myers April 9, 1887, who was born 
in Locke township, November 23, 1868, and who was the daughter of Jacob D. and 
Catherine ( Wisler) Myers (see sketch of Myers family). One child, Ray R. , born 
January 27, 1890, has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Berlin. Mr. Berlin is one of the 
public-spirited young men of the county and in politics he is a stanch Republican. 
He has held important offices of trust in the township and is at present township 
trustee. Since the death of their father, Francis and his brother Warren have pur- 
chased 100 acres and together own 206 acres. This farm is one of the best im- 
proved in the section and is nicely located. These gentlemen are doing a general 
line of farming and stock-raising and are wide awake and progressive. Warren E., 
the youngest son born to the marriage of Solomon Berlin, first saw the light of day 



8S8 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

on his father's farm in Locke township, August 5, 1862. When old enough he at- 
tended the district school and continued in the same until nineteen years of age, 
when he entered the normal school at Nappanee and Valparaiso, and fitted himself 
for a teacher. He became one of the prominent teachers of Elkhart county and 
taught eleven terms of school. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. 
In the year 1886 Mr. Berlin married Miss Angeline Eoose, a native of Elkhart 
county, Ind. , born November 19, 1868, and the eldest of seven children born to 
Silas and Harriet (Flickinger) Roose, who are now residents of Wakarusa, this 
county. Their children were named as follows: Angeline, Amanda, Mary, Sevilla, 
Jessie, William and Nellie. Mrs. Berlin was well educated and became a teacher, 
following this until her marriage. She is now the mother of two children: Bertha 
C, born December 9, 1887 and Ethel A., born May 2, 1872. Mr. and Mrs. Berlin 
are prominent young people of the township and are well liked by all acquainted with 
them. 

Jacob D. Myers, one of the most prominent farmers of Locke township, Elkhart 
Co., Ind., was born in the Buckeye State, Columbiana county, and his natal day was 
April 12, 1835. He was fourth in order of birth of eight children reared by John 
and Sarah (Longnecker) Myers. John Myers was born in Adams county, Penn., in 
1806 and the son of Henry and Mary (Knupp) Myers, both natives of the Keystone 
State. The great grandfather, also Henry Myers, came from Switzerland to 
America at a period antedating the Revolution and probably settled in Adams 
county, Penn. Henry Myers, Jr., married and reared a large family of children, 
viz.: John, Jacob, Henry, Samuel, Noah, Joseph, Susan and Mary. All these chil- 
dren reached mature years, married and reared families. About 1806 Henry Myers, 
Jr., and family moved to Columbiana county. Ohio, and settled on a farm in Beaver 
township. There he and his worthy wife passed the remainer of their days, both 
living to be quite aged people. They were members of the German Baptist Church 
and honorable, upright citizens. They worked hard, were industrious and frugal, 
and accumulated a comfortable property. John, their eldest child, and father of our 
subject, was but an infant when his parents moved to Ohio, and he was reared in the 
woods of Columbiana count}^ He attended the subscription schools of his day and 
was reared to farm life. After growing up he returned to Adams county, Penn., and 
learned the tanner's trade, which he followed for a number of years. He was well 
known as John Myers, tanner. He was married in Columbiana county, Ohio, to 
Miss Sarah Longnecker, and subsequently settled on a farm in Beaver township, and 
in connection with agricultural pursuits was also engaged as a tanner. He became a 
successful farmer and a wealthy man. In politics he was formerly a Whig, but later 
espoused the principles of the Republican party. He was interested in all affairs of 
moment and was a well-posted man. The German Baptist Church found in him a lib- 
eral and worthy member, and one who took a deep interest in its progress. He died in 
185-1 and was one of the most prominent citizens of that county. Mrs. Myers was 
born in Columbiana county, Ohio, and was a daughter of Daniel Longnecker, one of 
the early pioneers of that county. Mr. Longnecker was a nativeof Pennsylvania. He 
reared a large family of children, most of whom are scattered, and of whom Mrs. 
Myers was one of the eldest. Mr. and Mrs. Myers became the parents of nine children: 
Lydia, born May 28, 1825, died when about three years old; Mary A., born March 
1, 1827, became the wife of John M. Roose, and died in 1880; Hannah, born Febru- 
ary 9, 1829, died when nine years of age; Sarah, l)oru November 1, 1830, is now 
residing in Ohio and is the wife of Simon Summers; Rachel, born January 16, 1833, 
became the wife of Michael Roose and is now residing in Columbiana county; 
Jacob (subject); Elizabeth, born April 16, 1840, died when thirteen years of age; 
and John, born July 9, 1844, is residing in Ohio, and is a prominent lawyer. He 
is married. Mrs. Myers was a member of the German Baptist Church and a lady 
possessing many excellent qualities. She died in the Buckeye State in 1886. 
Jacob D. Myers divided his time in youth in assisting his father on the farm and in 



MEMOIUS OF INDIANA. 839 

attending the district school. As most of his time, however, was spent on the farm 
his scholastic training was not as thorough as it might have been. After the death 
of his father, in 1845, he started out to light life's battles for himself and was en- 
gaged in farming on shares for some time. In 1858 he married Miss Catherine 
Wisler, a native of Columbiana county, Ohio, born June 8, 1840, and the daughter 
of Anthony and Magdaline (Miller) Wisler. Mr. and Mrs. Wisler were members of 
the Mennonite Church and the former was a wealthy farmer and one of the early 
pioneers of Columbiana county. Anthony Wisler was born in Berks county, Penn., 
April 9, 1806, but moved from that State to Ohio and there his death occurred on 
September 11, 1887. To his marriage were born nine children, four of whom are 
living: Susan, Lizzie, one dieduunamed, Jonas, Daniel, Catherine, Leah, Sarah and 
Anthony. The four living are: Jonas, in Columbiana county, Ohio; Anthony, in Ohio; 
Leah in Ohio, and Catherine (Mrs. Myers), in Indiana. Mrs. Wisler was born in that 
county, September 2, 1809, and was the daughter of Tobias Miller. She died 
October 31, 1871, in her native State. After his marriage our subject followed 
farming in Ohio, until 1863, when in the fall of that year he came to Elkhart county. 
He bought a farm of eighty acres, built a house on it, and began clearing his farm. 
He has been unusually successful in his chosen calling and has added to the original 
tract until he is now the owner of 120 acres, all in one tract. He and his estimable 
wife experienced the trials and tribulations of pioneer life, but they worked their 
way to the front in spite of many drawbacks, and are classed among the substantial 
citizens of the township. In politics Mr. Myers supports the Republican party and 
has held office in this township. He is deeply interested in school and church work 
as well as all other enterprises to benefit the county. His successinlife is owing to 
hard work and good management on the farm in raising stock and grain. He annually 
raises many cattle and his fine farm shows that much care has been bestowed upon it. 
Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Myers: Isaac, born January 1, 1860, 
and now a farmer of Olive township, this county, married Miss Anna Plecher, 
daughter of Henry Fletcher, a prominent farmer of Harrison township. They have 
had two children: Harvey, born May 31, 1884, and Koscoe, born April, 1887. 
Isaac Myers is a well-to-do farmer, a public-spirited young man, and a Republican 
in politics. The second child born to Mr. Jacob D. Myers, Leah, first saw the light 
of day November 23, 1868. She is the wife of Francis Berlin and the mother of one 
child, Roy B., whose birth occurred February 27, 1889. 

Mks. Sophia Kdntsman, Mishawaka, lud. The subject of this sketch is the widow 
of Wolfgang Kuntsman, who was born in Byron, Germany, and was the son of John 
and Catherine Kuntsman. By occupation, John Kuntsman was a farmer and cooper, 
and they were the parents of Barbara, Christopher, now deceased; John, now de- 
ceased; Wolfang. now deceased; Ferdinand, living; Catherine, now deceased, and 
Andrew and Susan, living. John Kuntsman came to America with his family and 
died in St. Joseph county at the residence of his son Christopher at the age of over 
sixty years. He was a hard working, industrious man and a member of the Lutheran 
Church. Wolfgang Kuntsman was born January 7, 1828 at Byrm, Germany, re- 
ceived a common-school education, was a machinist and locksmith by trade, and 
came to America in 1854, when he was twenty-six years old. His father, mother and 
all his children except Christopher and Barbara came at the same time. Barbara 
had come two years before and had settled in St. Joseph county, six miles south of 
South Bend. Wolfgang worked for a time in South Bend, Ijut came to Mishawaka 
the same year and worked at his trade of machinist for fifteen years. He married, 
September 9, 1856, Sophia Shafer, who was born June 14, 1854, daughter of Con- 
rad and Sophia (Schrader) Shafer. Both Mr. and Mrs. Shafer were born in Prussia, 
at Sarenbridge. He was a blacksmith by trade and a farmer of twenty-five acres. 
Coming to America in 1846, he settled in Union township, St. Joseph county, on 
a farm of eighty acres and by thrift and energy he added to it until he owned over 
three hundred acres, becoming very comfortable in his worldly circumstances, leav- 



840 PICTORIAL AND BIOGltAPllICAL 

ing his children 83,500 each at his death. Both Mr. and Mrs. Shafer were members 
of the Lutheran Church, and he had always been an industrious and hard-working- 
man, who ever did his duty in all the relations of life. He was the father of seven chil- 
dren who grew to maturity, as follows: Conrad, Sophia, Philip, George, Elizabeth, 
Catherine and Peter. Mr. Shafer passed all the remainder of his life on his farm 
and died at the age of sixty-six years, in 1872. His children are upright, reliable 
citizens, and all have married and reared families except Catherine. After marriage 
Mr. and Mrs. Kuntsman lived in Mishawaka, where he followed his trade. He first 
bought 1 20 acres of land, four miles south of Mishawaka, where he lived one year, 
but in 1867 he bought the old farm where the family now reside, which then con- 
sisted of 192 acres, and by application and econom}' he was able soon to add to this 
purchase until he owned, before his death, 286 acres of land. Both Mr. and Mrs. 
Kuntsman were members of the Lutheran Church. In politics he was a stanch Demo- 
crat. He made all his property himself by the exercise of thrift and perseverance, 
worked hard, made every dollar count and was a straightforward, honorable man. 
He died at the early age of forty-nine years, November 7, 1878. He had come to 
America with no knowledge of the English language and made his way in spite of 
that great disadvantage. Seven childreu were born to this excellent man and his 
good wife, as follows: Catherine, who married John Hollinshead, who is a Missouri 
farmer, and they have six childreu; Julia married Christopher Fuch, a farmer of St. 
Joseph county, and they have six children; Ferdinand died at the age of nineteen 
years; Sophia married Heury Fickensaher, a farmer ot Clay township. St. Joseph 
county, and has two children; Philip died when nearly thirty years of age; Lizzie 
married Ludwig Fickensaher, a farmer and school teacher of this county, and has 
one child; and George is a young man at home, a practical farmer, who manages his 
mother's farm. The old homestead is still undivided, and Mrs. Kuntsman, aided 
by her son George, has added 137 acres to the farm. Mr. Kuntsman, before 
he died had built a commodious and substantial brick residence, a good array of 
buildings, barns, windmill, etc. This family is one well known and of sterling 
worth. 

John W. Ziqler is the manager of the Studebaker Bros. Eepository, at 212 
South Michigan street. South Bend, Ind., and his business experience and ability 
thoroughly qualify him for this responsible position. His birth occurred in Bote- 
tourt county, Va., June 27, 1831, his parents being Michael and Elizabeth (Snyder) 
Zigler, who were Virginia pioneers, the father being a farmer by occupation and a 
tanner by trade. He took up his residence within the borders of St. Joseph county, 
Ind., in 1833, and purchased a tract of land slightly improved in Portage county, on 
which a little log cabin had been erected, but very few other improvements made. 
At that time there were no roads to speak of, except a few Indian trails, and on 
his farm was an Indian burying ground. He and his wife both died on the 28th 
of March, 1848, there being but a difference of six hours in their deaths. Five 
ot the ten children born to them are living: James, Mary J., Lewis, John W. and 
George P.; Samuel, Sarah, Charles, William and an infant are deceased. The subject 
of this sketch was about two years of age when brought to this county, and here, amid 
the scenes of pioneer life, he was reared. He was seventeen years of age when his 
parents died but he remained on the home farm until he was twenty, up to which 
time he attended the common school near his rural home during the winter months. 
Owing to the poor facilities and the incompetency of teachers, he did not become aa 
proficient as was desirable. He became well versed in the minutife of farming and 
swung the grubbing hoe and ax with vigor in his endeavors to clear the home farm. 
After starting out for himself he was engaged in the manufacture of brick for two 
summers. In 1852 he became a clerk in the dry goods house of Eeynolds & Co., of 
South Bend, but in 1855 entered the employ of Brownfield & Co., with which firm 
he remained two years. He then returned to the farm, having married in the mean- 
time, but remained in the rural districts onlv a short time. He returned to South 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 341 

Bend for the purpose of settling up the Reynolds estate and after this was satis- 
factorily adjusted, he, in 1860, moved to Rome Prairie in La Porte county, Ind., 
where he remained until 1882. Since that time he has been in charge of the car- 
riage repository of Studebaker Bros., of South Bend, for the successful incumbency 
of which position he seems to be naturally fitted. While living in La Porte county 
he was the trustee of six schools for over eighteen years. He was State elector of 
the Grange movement, was master of the same organization, was president of the 
La Forte Agricultural Society for four years, and was nominated for treasurer of that 
county but respectfully declined the race. He is a Republican, and socially is a 
member of that meritorious order, the A. F. & A. M. In 1857 he was married 
to Mrs. Mary A. Reynolds, a daughter of Benjamin Falsom, and to them the follow- 
ing children have been given: Carrie, Minnie, Charles, Benjamin (deceased) and 
Ada. 

Eli.jah W. Halford, ex-President Harrison's private secretar}', although a for- 
eigner by birth, is an American in the fullest sense of the word. He was born in Not- 
tingham, England, in the month of September, 1842, and when seven years old was 
brought to the United States, where he received his education and which has ever 
since been his home. When yet a youth he learned the printer's trade at Ham- 
ilton. Ohio, and coming to Indianapolis the winter of 1861-2 found employment on 
the Journal, of that city, remaining with it in various capacities for ten years. At 
the time of the establishment of the Chicago Inter Ocean, he was tendered the 
position of managing editor, and accepting, he occupied the place two years, during 
which time he obtained an extended reputation as an able journalist and brought to 
the paper its renown as the greatest Republican newspaper of the great Northwest. 
Upon his resignation as chief of the Inter Ocean he returned to Indiauajjolis, and 
for a number of years was managing editor of the Journal. Accepting President 
Harrison's appointment as private secretary, Mr. Halford occupied that position 
until near the close of the administration, when he was appointed paymaster in the 
United States army, with the rank of major. In his intercourse with the great men 
of all parties, he has won universal respect. When twenty-six years old he married 
Miss Fannie Armstrong, by whom he is the father of one daughter. 

Isaiah Rummel. No matter how disagreeable the outlook in life, or how little 
encouragement is received, there are some who will succeed in whatever they under- 
take, while others, placed in the same position, will give up in despair. Among 
those who have won universal respect by push and energy, and who are classed 
among the first in whatever they undertake, is the above mentioned gentleman. 
Notwithstanding many reverses and discouragements, Mr. Rummel has ever come 
boldly to the front, and, with the perseverance and progressive spirit of the native 
Ohioan, surmounted all difficulties. He is an early pioneer of Elkhart county, set- 
tling on Section 17, Union township, in the spring of 1866, and first bought eighty 
acres, all in the woods. He subsequently added to this twenty acres of timber, and 
his farm of one hundred acres is now one of the finest tracts of land in the town- 
ship, or, in fact, in the whole county. The improvements are very good indeed. 
Mr. Rummel was born in Mahoning county, Palland township, Ohio, April 4, 1838, 
and was the eldest of a family of five children born to Jacob and Hannah (Whiten- 
barger) Rummel. Jacob Rummel was also bom in Mahoning county, Ohio, and was 
one of eight children born to the marriage of Peter Rummel, five sons and three 
daughters: Henry, George, John, Peter, Jacob, Margaret, Christina and Susanna. 
The grandfather, Peter Rummel, was a native of Germany, and after coming to this 
country, settled in Mahoning county, where he passed the remainder of his days. 
One of his sons, Henry, was a soldier in the War of 1812, and all his children are 
deceased. They had all grown to mature years, reared families, and all the sons 
were Democrats except Jacob, who also affiliated with that party for some time. 
Later he became a Whig and finally a Republican. Jacob was born about 1814, 
and after reaching mature years followed agricultural pursuits in his native county. 



842 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

He was married there to Miss Whitenbarger, also a native of Mahoning county, who 
was the eldest of three children born to Jacob and Hannah (Rose) Whitenbarger. 
The Whitenbarger famih' is of German and the Rose family of English descent. 
Both families settled in Ohio at an early date. Jacob and wife became the parents 
of four children: Hannah, who became Mrs. Rummel; Joseph, Eliza and Jacob 
who died young. After residing in his native county for some time Mr. and Mrs. 
Rummel, with their family, moved to Lawrence county, Penn., but subsequently 
bought the old home place of Mrs. Rummel' s parents and returned to Ohio. Two 
of the children were born in Pennsylvania. Mr. Rummel learned the blacksmith 
trade when a boy, but tollovyed farming at which he became wealthy. He was 
always deeply interested in political matters and was also interested in religious 
matters, being a member of the New School Lutheran Church, class leader and an 
active man in the Sunday-school. He was a popular man in his community, gen- 
erous to a fault, and ever ready to assist the sick and afflicted. No better man had 
his home in the county. He was superintendent and school director in the township 
in which he lived; was of a jovial, genial disposition, and enjoyed good company. 
His wife is a member of the same church and an excellent woman. Like her hus- 
band she was ever ready to assist the sick and unfortunate, and suffering humanity 
ever found in her a true friend. She reared her five children to mature years and 
her excellent advice and counsel will ever linger in their minds. The children were 
named as follows: Isaiah, the eldest; Joseph, born in Ohio, April 16, 1840, enlisted 
in 1861, in Company C, One Hundred and Fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer In- 
fantry, and was killed in the Atlanta campaign by an exploding shell (he was 
buried sixteen miles south of Atlanta, Ga. ; he had been a brave soldier and was in 
many battles; the same shell that killed him ended the lives of two of his com- 
rades; he was a single man); Eliza married William Rife who was a soldier in the 
Confederate army, being pressed into service, and they now live on a farm in Ohio; 
John resides with his mother and carries on the home place (he married Miss Susan 
Sittler and they have one child, Chauney); Obediah married Samantha Yarian, 
a daughter of Adam Yarian, and has four children: Francis, Daisy, Edith and Adam 
(he and wife now reside in Mahoning county, Ohio). The mother of these children 
resides on the old farm, is seventy-five years of age, and although the snows of 
many winters have passed over her head, she is still in the enjoyment of good 
health. Isaiah Rummel, the original of this notice, was reared and educated in 
Mahoning county, Ohio, and although his educational advantages were not of the best, 
he improved every opportunity and acquired most of his learning by earnest study 
at home. He worked on his father's farm and followed the usual life of a farmer's 
boy until a young man. In 1864 he enlisted in the army, was in service four 
months, and was at Point Lookout. He has never recovered from the effects of the 
exposure he underwent while in the service. He received his discharge at Camp 
Denison and returned to Van Wert county, Ohio, where he had located before en- 
listing. After his brother's death he returned to Mahoning county, and later 
worked at the carpenter's trade. Returning to Van Wert county he remained there 
until 1866, when he came to Indiana and located on the farm where he now lives. 
September 16, 1869, he led to the altar Miss Mariah Strycker, daughter of Christian 
Strycker, and a native of Elkhart county, Union township, Ind., born February 16, 
1845. She was well educated and is an intelligent and accomplished lady, and 
lives a pious life, always ready to aid the poor and the sick. Mr. Rummel has 
seventy-five of his one hundred acres of land cleared and is wide awake and thor- 
oughgoing. Seven living children have been born to his marriage and are named 
as follows: Elmer J., born July 9, 1870, is a carpenter by trade and in politics a 
Republican (he is an upright, honorable young man and makes his home with his 
father); John C, born June 14, 1872, is at home assisting on the farm; Martha 
A., born June 11, 1874, is also at home; George L., born January 23, 1877; 
Emery E., born August 14, 1879; Sarah E., born November 10, 1882; Hannah A., 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 343 

born January 23, 1886, and died February 2, 1887; and Laura M. , born July 1-4, 
1889. Mr. Eummel is a church member and a prominent citizen of his section. 
In politics he is a Republican and has been a member of the Central Committee 
for a number of years. He is well known throughout the county as a Republican 
and has held a number of local positions. 

Edwaed Allen Jernegan, Mishawaka, Ind. The subject of this sketch is one of 
the old soldier citizens of 8t. Joseph county, Ind., a prominent newspaper man, and 
for twenty years the editor of the Mishawaka Enterprise. He is of English stock, 
his very remote ancestors coming with the Danes into England before the time of 
William the Conqueror, being descendants of Sir Henry Jerningham, as the name 
was originally spelled. The founders of the family in America came about 1700, 
settling in Massachusetts, and were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. They were 
seafaring people, and for generations sea captains, in the old whale voyaging days, 
living in Nantucket and New Bedford. On both sides the ancestors of our subject 
lost valuable vessels during the troubles caused by Napoleon's embargo. Leonard 
Jernegan, grandfather of our subject, was a native of Edgartown, Mass., and was a 
sea captain. He married a Coffin, a descendant of Sir Isaac Coffin, and they were 
the parents of three sons who survived: Thomas, father of our subject; Joseph 
Leonard (one of the early and prominent meml)ers of the St. Joseph county bar); 
and Charles, who became a resident of New York. Capt. Jernegan was for many 
years a navigator, and was lost at sea in one of his own vessels just as he was enter- 
ing the harbor of New Bedford. He left considerable property. Thomas Jernegan, 
Bon of the above and father of the subject of our sketch, was born in Edgartown, 
Martha's Vineyard, February 23, 1816, received an academic education, and early 
in life learned the printer's trade in New Bedford. He engaged in the mercantile 
business in Boston, but in 1840 came to South Bend, where his brother, Joseph L., 
was already located, engaged in the mercantile business, and in 1842 bought the 
Mishawaka Tocsin, founded by Wilbur F. Story, and afterward edited by Mr. Mer- 
rifield. Mr. Jernegan took this paper to South Beud and then moved to La Porte, 
resided one year, then took it to Michigan City and changed the name of the paper 
to the Michigan City News. Mr. Jernegan also engaged in the mercantile business, 
and was postmaster under President Pierce. He also conducted various newspaper 
enterprises for over a quarter of a ceutury. During the Civil war the office was 
closed, the editor, foreman and devil all entering the service of the United States. 
Mr. Jernegan was appointed by President Lincoln, assistant paymaster in the U. S. 
navy, which position he held for three years. In politics he is a stanch Republican, 
originally being a free soil Democrat. Both Mr. and Mrs. Jernegan are members 
of the Episcopal Church. In 1882 Mr. Jernegan received an appointment in the 
Pension Department at Washington, where he now resides. He married, in Nan- 
tucket, Annie M. Clasby, daughter of Capt. Reuben Clasby, an experienced sea 
captain of that city. To Mr. and Mrs. Jernegan were born two children who died 
in infancy and five who lived to maturity, as follows: Ellen, Louise C, Edward A., 
Charlotte C. and Arthur T. The first two were born in South Bend, Edward A. in 
La Porte and the remainder in Michigan City. Mr. Jernegan, at the age of seventy- 
seven, is hale and hearty, and attends to all of the duties of life with unabated vigor. 
He has always been a man of probity of character and well known for his enterprise 
and energy, and has long been a prominent citizen. Edward A. Jernegan, our 
subject, was born at La Porte, Ind., January 27, 1846, and was taken to Michigan 
City by his parents when but one year old. He received the education of the pub- 
lic school of that city and attended the high school. In 1862, August 16, he 
enlisted at Michigan City, at the age of sixteen years, in the service of the United 
States, as a drummer in Company K, Seventy-third Regiment, Indiana Volunteer 
Infantry, and was honorably discharged March 19, 1863, at Louisville, Ky., in 
order to take the position of paymaster's clerk under his father, on the United 
States steamer, " Commodore Barney," in the Atlantic squadron. He was in the 



344 PICTOBIAL AND BIOOIiArUICAL 

battles of Stone River and Perrysville, and also took part in several severe skir 
mishes. He became dangerously ill, and was in the hospitals at Nashville and 
Louisville for two months. His naval service was principally on the North Carolina 
coast and the James River. He resigned from the navy May 1, 1864, and 
re-enlisted as a private in Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Indiana 
Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged September 22, 1864. Thus, while still a 
boy, Mr. Jernegan did good service for his country. He was a soldier, and also 
served as a minute man during Morgan's raid, in July, 1863, and was made clerk 
in the provost marshal's office after his discharge until the close of the war. After 
his service closed as a soldier, Mr. Jernegan became associate editor with his father 
of the Michigan City Enterprise, where he remained until 1872, when he came to 
Mishawaka and bought the Mishawaka Enterprise, which he has ably conducted and 
made a success in every way. Politically be is a Republican, and holds the office 
of postmaster under President Harrison. He is a member of the G. A. R., and has 
held the office of commander for two terms. He is also a member of the Mishawaka 
Masonic Lodge, No. 130, Mishawaka Chapter, No. 83, Mishawaka Council and 
South Bend Commandery, No. 13, K. T., and has held the office of high priest of 
the chapter and minor offices in other bodies. Mr. Jernegan married September 0, 
1869, Nannie C. Sherman, daughter of Hon. M. G. and Charlotte (Hartwell) Sher- 
man. Dr. Sherman was a resident of Michigan City, born at Barre, Vt., and 
descended from the old colonial family of the stock of Roger Sherman. He came 
to Michigan City about 1856 and founded the car shops. Dr. Sherman was a prom- 
inent politician, a noted speaker, and had served in the Indiana Legislature. He 
entered the army as assistant surgeon of the Ninth Indiana Volunteers, and was 
promoted rapidly on merit to the successive ranks of regimental, brigade and 
division surgeon. He died in Michigan City in June, 1890, at the advanced age 
of eighty-six years. Mrs. Sherman was a daughter of Col. J. K. Hartwell. of the 
Canadian provincial forces. To Mr. and Mrs. Jernegan have been born four 
children, three now living: Mason S., born December 6, 1870, at Michigan City, a 
young man who was liberally educated at Wabash College, and who now is associate 
editor of the Mishawaka Enterprise; May C. , born May 16, 1872, a graduate of the 
high school; and Ralph H. , born August 30, 1877. Mr. Jernegan is a substantial 
man, owns real estate in Mishawaka, and is well known as a newspaper editor of 
ability and enterprise. When a mere boy he displayed these manly qualities which 
have distinguished him since. As a citizen, his character has been above reproach. 
He is highly regarded by the members of his profession, and for two years was 
president of the Northern Indiana Editorial Association. 

Jacob W^oolverton, vice-president of the St. Joseph County Savings Bank at 
South Bend, and a dealer in real estate, is well and favorably known in financial 
and real estate circles, and has always sustained a high reputation in his community. 
He owes his nativity to this county, his birth occurring in Warren township, Sep- 
tember 3, 1845, his parents being Charles and Jane (Lawson) Woolverton. The 
father was a resident of Hamilton county, Ohio, during his boyhood days, but in 
1829 took up his abode in Park county, Ind. , and in 1831 or 1832 in St. Joseph county, 
where he became a land speculator. While pursuing this business he made trips 
to and from Park county and Cincinnati, and often stopped at the home of the 
Lawsons, by which means he formed the acquaintance of his wife, their marriage 
taking place in 1840. They settled on a farm in Warren township, this county, 
soon after and on that farm the mother is still residing, and although she has 
attained the age of seventy- seven years, she is yet hale and hearty. When they lirst 
took up their residence in this section, Indians and wild animals were still plentiful, 
and although they were compelled to undergo the usual hardships of the pioneer, 
they were better supplied with worldly goods than a great many. Mr. Woolverton 
entered several tracts of land, purchasing from the Government at $1.25 per acre, 
and selling it to the rapidly incoming settlers, by which means he made consid- 





;^ ^-^Z^^'-^^^^^^^;^-^. 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAyA. 347 

erable money. He built a little log bouse on his farm, in which he and his wife 
■were living when Jacob was born. He was justice of the peace for several years 
prior to bis death, which took place November 2, 1852, when the suliject of this 
sketch was only seven years old. He was a very useful citizen in the early days of 
this section and it was owing to just such men that the country was brought to 
its present state of agricultural perfection. But two of his children are now living, 
Jacob and Charles, the former of whom was reared on his native farm, the majority 
of his days being spent in clearing and working the same. His school days were 
limited to the winter months until he was nineteen years of age, when he came 
to South Bend and entered Northern Indiana College, which institutioD he at- 
tended for two years. He then took a commercial course in Eastman Business 
College, from which he graduated. Succeeding this he traveled for some time 
throughout the Southern and Western states, and upon returning to South Bend 
went to work by the month for Col. Eddy, district internal revenue collector. He 
next traveled for a few months for a Cleveland wholesale oil house, after which he 
was the book-keeper of Studebaker Bros, for a few months. His aspirations having 
always been to be a real estate man and follow in the footsteps of his father he, in 
connection with William L. Kizer, formed a partnership June 10, 1869, and have 
since remained business associates. They have been very successful in this line of 
work and handle an enormous amount of property. Their operations are extensive 
and widespread, and connections of the most substantial character have been formed 
with capitalists and citizens generally. Theirs is the oldest and most prominent real 
estate firm of the county, and as they thoroughly understand the value of realty 
throughout the county, and are open and above board in their transactions, their 
large patronage is not to be wondered at. His time has been too fully occupied for 
him to aspire to political preferment, but he has been treasurer of the Republican 
Central Committee of the county. He has been vice-president of the St. Joseph 
County Savings Bank for many years and is a stockholder in the Citizens' National 
Bank. In October, 1870, he married Alice M. Rupel, who has borne him four chil- 
dren: John J., Howard A., Earl E. and an infant. 

John Anglemyer, who for the past thirty-eight years has been a citizen of Elk- 
hart county, Ind., and for the most part a resident of Union township, was born on 
his father's farm in Westmoreland county, Penn., and was one of ten children 
reared by Adam and Elizabeth (Siple) Anglemyer. The father, Adam Anglemyer, 
was born in Berks county, Penn., in 1777, and was one of ten or twelve children. 
He was of German descent and a descendant of a prominent family. His death 
occurred in 1858, when eighty-one years of age. His wife, who was also a native 
of Pennsylvania, was born in 1783, and died in 1876, when nearly ninety-four years 
of age. She was an eye-witness of the funeral procession of Gen. George Wash- 
ington. This old couple were married in their native State and made their home 
there for a number of years, eight of their children being born there. Mr. Adam 
Anglemyer lost his home in the Keystone State by going security. Thinking to bet- 
ter his condition, he emigrated with his family, in 1821, to Columbiana county, Ohio, 
where for a number of years he lived on a rented farm. He was a cripple, but 
worked at his trade, tailor, managed to get along and finally secured a home. 
During his early life he was a member of the Presbyterian Church, but at the time 
of his death was a German Baptist. He was a man devoted to his home, firm in his 
ideas, and public spirited and enterprising. In early life his wife was a Presby- 
terian, but she also became identified with the German Baptist Church. Their chil- 
dren were named as follows: Martha, married John Coblentz, of Columbiana county, 
Ohio, both are now deceased; Sarah, married John Hilbum and lived in Canada, 
she is now deceased; Jacob, married Rebecca Sumners, reared a family and died in 
Ohio; Joseph, married Margaret Mellinger and reared a family and died in his 
native county; Solomon, married Catherine Smith and now resides in Huntington 
county, this State, and reared a large family ; John (subject) ; Adam, married Han- 



548 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

nah Hoke, both died ia this State and left a family; Ephraim, married Luciada 
Seiduer, who died in Miami county, Ind., and left a family; Elizabeth had a large 
family, also died in Miami county, and was the wife of Jacob Seidner; and Susan, 
■who is now living in Union township, this county, and is the wife of George Grove 
and the mother uf four children. The original of this notice was born December 
16, 1818, on his father's farm in the Keystone State, and he was a child of three 
years when bis parents moved to Ohio. He grew to mature years in Columbiana 
county, that State, attended the common district schools and worked as a farm boy 
until twenty-one years of age. After this he worked on a farm by the month, and 
on March 16, 1843, was married to Miss Margaret Hoke, a native of Columbiana 
county, Ohio. After marriage he worked at the shoemaker's trade and also followed 
farming, and in 1849 moved on a farm in Columbiana county, tilling the soil until 
1853. Three children were born to them in that county, one in the State of 
Indiana, and in the fall of 1853 and the early part of 1854 the family moved to 
Elkhart county, Ind. They settled in Union township and bought a farm of eighty 
acres on Section 16. This farm was then nearly all in the woods, but Mr. Angle- 
myer began improving the place and added to it until he at one time owned 240 
acres, and has a fine, well-improved farm. In religion he is a German Baptist. 
He has been a member of that church for forty years, is an elder in the same, 
and is much interested in religious and educational matters. As a farmer he has 
met with success. He is an upright, worthy citizen and one of the foremost farm- 
ers. His wife was a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Longanecker) Hoke and 
the granddaughter of Martin and Margaret (Mellinger) Hoke. The Hoke family 
is of German origin; Martin Hoke, grandfather of Mrs. Auglemyer, was born in 
Pennsylvania and came to Ohio at an early date. He went back to bring on his 
family but died. His widow then moved to the Buckeye State with the three 
children — Henry, John and Elizabeth — and here passed the remainder of her days, 
dying in Columbiana county. Henry Hoke, the father of Mrs. Anglemyer, was born 
in Berks county, Penn., March 10, 1799, but was reared in Columbiana county, 
Ohio. He was married February 15, 1820, and settled on a farm, where his death 
occurred August 19, 1857. Mr. Hoke was a stanch Republican, a member of the 
German Baptist Church, and a leading man in his neighborhood. He held a num- 
ber of offices in the township and for several years was a school teacher. His 
wife was born in the Keystone State July 28, 1800, and was a daughter of Daniel 
and Sarah (Mack) Longanecker. She was a member of the German Baptist Church and 
died in November. 1875, when seventy- five years of age. This worthy couple were 
the parents of several children, as follows: Samuel, married to Anna Paulding, died 
in Union township, Elkhart county, leaving a widow and two children; Isaac, mar- 
ried to Eliza Weaver, and resided in Elkhart township from 1853 until 1890, and 
then died, leaving a family of eight children, all in this county: Sarah, married 
Conrad Rhodes and had a family of thirteen children (she is now a resident of 
Butler county, Penn.); Margaret (Mrs. Anglemyer); Martin, married Catharine 
Metz and resides in Huntington county, this State, and is the father of eight children; 
Lydia, married Jacob Kitch and both are now deceased (they left one child. Amanda); 
Jonas, married Rebecca Halverstalt, resides in Columbiana county, Ohio, aud has 
seven children; George, married Catharine Buzzard, resides in Harrison township, 
Elkhart county, aud has seven children. To Mr. and Mrs. Anglemyer have been 
born four children. Franklin, who was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, June 13, 
1844, is a farmer in Elkhart county, Ind. ; De Lorma, also a native of Ohio, born 
March 3, 1849, died in 1879; he married Miss Mary Miller, daughter of Jacob and 
Mrs. Miller, whose family were John, Levi, Andrew, Elizabeth and Mary, and 
became the father of one child, Laura, who is living; he was a farmer in Elkhart 
county, a member of the German Baptist Church. Lydia A., born August 5, 1853, 
became the wife of Jonas Frederick, son of William Frederick, one of four children, 
the others being: Rebecca, William and Jesse, a farmer of Union township. They 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 349 

have eight children: Judith, Charles, Edith, John, Anna, Jesse, Fannie and 
Harvey. John Anglemyer's (subject's) youngest son, David H., is living on a 
small farm near the home place and is also a successful farmer. He was born 
in Elkhart county, Ind. , May 26, 186-4, and was reared under the parental roof. He 
married Miss Catherine Moyer, one of a family of seven children: Catharine, 
Angeline, Daniel, Abraham, Susan. Nancy and Saloma, a native of Elkhart county, 
born September 4, 1864, and a daughter of George W. and Mary (Engle) Moyer. 
Mr. Moyer was an early settler of Elkhart county and Harrison township. David 
H, John Anglemyer's youngest son, and wife are well-to-do young people. John 
Anglemyer (subject) and wife raised and provided homes for the following orphans: 
Amanda Kitch, only child of Mrs. Anglemyer's sister, who married Jesse Newcomer, 
a well-to-do farmer; Amanda Newcomer, who died after living with them a few 
years; John W. Anglemyer, grandchild of subject, who now resides with them; 
Katie Bucher, who also resides with them at this time, and is an estimable young 
woman. Franklin, John Anglemyer's eldest son, was ten years of age when the family 
moved to this State. He attended the district school of Elkhart county and then 
the Goshen High School, thus fitting himself for teaching. In 1865 he branched 
out in his career as an educator and first taught in Scott township, Kosciusko Co., 
Ind., but afterward taught in Elkhart county. At the same time he followed agri- 
cultural pursuits and has a farm of fifty-nine acres; this he has well improved. He 
was married in 1867 to Susanna Hoover, a native of Union township, Elkhart 
county, and daughter of Samuel and Mary A. (Wisler) Hoover. The Hoover family 
is among the most prominent ones of the county. Mrs. Anglemyer was the eldest 
of four children — John, David and Jonas — and was born in Ohio, December 4, 1846. 
By her marriage she became the mother of four children, viz. : Albert H. , born May 
28, 1868, married Miss Ida IfFert, of Union township, daughter of Louis Iffert (see 
sketch); Oliver S., born August 17, 1871, single; Jesse J., born January 28, 1874, 
and John W., born December 28, 1879. Franklin's first wife died in 1881 and he 
subsequently married Mrs. Isophine Longanecker, a native of Ohio, and the widow 
of Frank Longanecker. Her maiden name was Hoover, daughter of M. Hoover. 
She was born January 13, 1854, and was one of a family of five children: Calvin, 
Sylve.ster, Ida, Clara and Jane. To Mrs. Anglemyer's first marriage were born two 
children— Ella and Alice — both natives of Ohio, the former born February 12, 
1876, and the latter March 12, 1878. Four children have been born to Mr. and 
Mrs. F. Anglemyer— Mervin E., born February 11, 1886, and Wilber F., born June 
13, 1892. Two children died in infancy. Franklin Anglemyer is a member of 
the German Baptist Church, in which he holds office. He has a farm near the 
old home place and is prosperous and contented. 

Jesse H. Gaines, Mishawaka, Ind. The subject of this sketch is one of the 
oldest settlers of this town, having come here from Detroit, Mich. , December 27, 
1839. He is the son of Alfred M. and Mariah Gaines. The ancestors of our 
subject, on the father's side were of English stock and an old colonial family. 
General Gaines, husband of the celebrated Myra Clark Gaines, of the famous will 
case, was a descendant of the same family. The father of our subject was born in 
Vermont and there engaged in the manufacture of plows. He came to Detroit while 
a young man; there married a lady of German parentage. He then settled at 
Constantiue, Mich., in 1842, worked in an iron foundry and later settled in Boone 
county, Mich., and passed the remainder of his days on his farm. He was the father 
of four children who lived to maturity. One, Adam S. , was killed in the Civil 
war in a skirmish northeast of Knoxville and lies buried in the National Cemetery 
at Knoxville. He was a member of Company M, Second Michigan Cavalry, enlist- 
ing in 1861, and was shot in November, 1863. He had been in several battles and 
had served under Gen. Sheridan, who was his colonel. Oscar O. enlisted in May, 
1861, in Company K, Third Michigan Infantry and served in that company until 
1868, when he was transferred to the regular army and was made orderly of Gen. 



850 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

Sheridan's staff. At the expiration of his original enlistment, he re-enlisted in the 
regular army and was honorably discharged in 1867, his papers being made out and 
signed by Gen. Sheridan with a recommendation accompanying the discharge. He 
was in many battles, was never sick in any hospital, but died in Grand Rapids, 
Mich., in 1866. Mr. Gaines, the father of our subject, died when on a visit at 
Wilmington, Del., at an advanced age. He was a member of the Baptist Church. 
Always hard working and industrious, he was much esteemed. He gave three of 
his sons to the army, the three brothers' terms of service aggregating thirteen 
years. Our subject was but three years of age when his parents took him to 
Constantine, Mich., and here he was reared. He received his education iu the public 
schools, and early began work at the trade of a blacksmith, commencing at the age of 
sixteen years and finishing when nineteen. He enlisted in the service of the United 
States, April 23, 1861, at Constantine, Mich., in Company G, Second Regiment, 
Michigan Volunteer Infantry, and served until April 7, 1865. He was honorably 
discharged at Detroit, Mich., having participated in every battle in which his com- 
pany took part, some forty in all, from the first battle of Bull Run up to and includ- 
ing the Petersburg Mine explosion. This regiment was one of the celebrated fight- 
ing regiments of Michigan. It was first with Heinzelman's corps, under Gen. Phil. 
Kearney, and after the death of that famous tighter, was with the Ninth 
Army Corps, was afterward sent with one of the divisions of the corps to 
Vicksburg, then to Jackson, Miss., and took part in the Tennessee campaign. 
In the spring of 1864 the regiment returned to the Army of the Potomac. Mr. 
Gaines re-enlisted as a veteran at Blair's Cross Roads, Tenn., December 31, 1863, 
in the same company and regiment. He was never obliged to enter a hospital, 
and was always an active and efficient soldier. He was taken prisoner July 30, 
1864:, at the Petersburg Mine explosion and was taken to Danville, Va., and was 
paroled February 22, 1865. "When taken prisoner, Mr. Gaines weighed 160 pounds 
and when he came out his weight was but 107 pounds. The prison was a tobacco 
warehouse, Prison No. 4, and the prison diet of corn meal, with meat three times in 
seven months did not conduce to any gain of avoirdupois. Just before his capture, 
Mr. Gaines had been promoted to be second lieutenant on account of meritorious 
services, but as he was reported as killed he was never mustered in under this 
commission, but after his parole he was commissioned first lieutenant, April 25, 
1865, for gallant services. After the close of the war, Mr. Gaines went to Marshall, 
Mich. , where he worked at his trade, and January 1, 1867, he married Jennie Oli- 
ver, daughter of William and Lucy (Ford) Oliver. To Mr. and Mrs. Gaines have 
been born five children: Kittie, who married Horace Price, one of the proprietors 
of the wagon works in Mishawaka; Alfred M. , who was a miner in Colorado; Nellie, 
Charles and Oliver. In 1869 Mr. Gaines came to Mishawaka, where he has since 
resided. Mr. Gaines first engaged with his father-in-law, William Oliver, in the 
blacksmith's business. The latter was one of the old, pioneer citizen of Mishawaka. 
Since 1879 Mr. Gaines has carried on the blacksmith's business in this town. He 
is a member of the G. A. R., Mishawaka Post, and has held the ofiices of quarter- 
master and post commander. Politically he is a stanch Republican. He is a 
reliable citizen and has served the township in the office of trustee. Both Mr. 
and Mrs. Gaines are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which organization 
he has held the office of trustee. Before closing this sketch it is only justice to 
refer to the war record of Mr. Gaines, which is one of the best in the county. 
On June 17, 1864, our subject, who was color sergeant, had charge of several 
colored corporals, called the colored guard. In front of Petersburg, his regiment 
made two different charges, and in one of these charges one of the guards was killed 
and six of them were wounded. At another time, the flag staff was shot off and the 
flag fell. This flag is now in the State House of Lansing, Mich. Mr. Gaines was 
in one of the first battles of the war, Blackman's Ford, Va. Of the full company 
of 100 men who enlisted at Constantine, Mich., and were mustered in as Company 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 351 

G, Second Michigan Infantry, Lieut. Gaines was the only man who was mustered 
out of the same company in 1865. The other original members were either miss- 
ing or had beau discharged or killed. 

John Yant, mason contractor. An important branch of industry is that repre- 
sented by Mr. Yant, whose name is prominently identified with the building inter- 
ests of South Bend, and has become a synonym for sterling honesty and conscien- 
tious fulfilment of contracts. He was born in Stark county, Ohio, October 30, 
1843, a son of Valentine and Catherine (Platz) Yant, the former of whom was born 
in Ohio, the latter in Pennsylvania, both being of German extraction. The paternal 
grandfather, John Yant, was a patriot of the Eevolution, was one of the early 
settlers of Ohio and died in Stark county when past the age of four-score years. 
Like his father before him, Valentine Yant, was a farmer and devoted his attention 
to this occupation in Elkhart county from 1861 until he removed to the city of 
Elkhart, where he was called from life in 1882. The mother died in South 
Bend, four of the seven children born to her surviving: Emeline, John, Melissa and 
Mary. Sarah, Nancy and Frances are deceased. John Yant was occupied with the 
details of farming in Stark county, Ohio, until he was nineteen years of age, but 
owing to the scarcity and inferiority of the schools of that period, he did not secure 
as good an education as he desired. About one year prior to coming west he 
worked at the mason's trade, and upon locating in Kendallville, Ind. , he followed 
this calling for six years. In 1864 he dropped his trowel in order to tight his 
country's battles and became a member of Company F, One Hundred and Thirty- 
ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he served five months. In 1865 he 
was married to Miss Mary J. Weaver, of Kendallville, and in 1866 took up his resi- 
dence in the town of Goshen, where he was successfully engaged in contracting until 
the fall of 1869, when he came to South Bend, where he has since made his home. 
His career as a contractor has been a very prosperous one, and he has successfully 
carried to completion many large contracts, among which may be mentioned the 
Oliver Opera House and nine dwellings for Mr. Oliver, which took about 24,000 
yards of plaster. He has filled many other prominent contracts in a skillful work- 
manlike manner, and his services are in such requisition that he is kept constantly 
busy. His buildings are just ornaments to and among the best equipped and 
appointed in South Bend, and he is rightly considered an important factor in the 
welfare, happiness and prosperity of the place. He has always supported the 
doctrines and platforms of the Republican party, by which he was elected a member 
of the city council in 1884, and during the four years that he held that ofiice he 
never missed a meeting of that body. In 1888 he was elected township trustee, held 
the position two years and four months, and his name was a candidate for sheriff of the 
county at the November election of 1892 and resulted in his election. He is a 
member of the A. F. & A. M., the K. O. T. M., the Royal Arcanum, the A. O. U. 
W. and the G. A. R. He is the father of two daughters: Laura I. and Bessie M. 

Samuel Hoover (deceased). It is with pleasure that we represent in this vol- 
ume one of the most prominent and early pioneer families of Elkhart county, and 
one of its most honored members was the lamented gentleman whose name we have 
just given. This highly esteemed and eminently useful member of society was a 
native of Franklin county, Penn., born August 19, 1819, and the son of David and 
Esther (Lehman) Hoover. Samuel moved with his parents to Ohio, settled with 
them on a farm in Mahoning county, and there grew to mature years and married. 
His wife, whose maiden name was Mary A. Wisler (see sketch of her father, John 
Wisler), was born in the Buckeye State in 1820. After marriage Samuel and wife 
settled in Ohio, where two children were born to them, and then moved to Indiana, 
where three more children were born. They came to the Hoosier State in 1850, 
making the journey with wagon, and were several weeks on the way. They settled 
on a farm Mr. Hoover had bought, and on which his sons now live, and as this tract 
of land, consisting of eighty acres, was all in the woods but a small garden spot, 



352 PICTORIAL .UVi> BIOGRAPHICAL 

he began immediately to make improvements and clear the land. A small log house 
was on the place, their limited household goods were arranged in this, and in a very 
frugal manner they began their career as pioneers. Mr. Hoover owned very little 
when he first came to the county, and paid $300 for his original farm, but he was 
possessed of any amount of energy and persevereuce and became one of the well- 
to-do farmers. Just prior to his death, which occurred in 1879, he added ten acres 
to the original tract of land. He was considerable of a hunter, was known as one of 
the best shots in the county, and many deer have fallen at the report of his unerring 
rifle. A man much attached to his home, at the same time he was one of the most 
public-spirited citizens of Union township, and contributed liberally of his means 
to further all laudable enterprises. When a boy he had but poor chances for a 
schooling, but in spite of that fact he obtained a good education and became a good 
business man. He was possessed of a genial, social disposition and loved to Lave 
his friends about him. At the time of his death, June 25, 1879, he was a worthy 
member of the Meunonite Church, and in politics was a Republican. He and his 
estimable wife had experienced all the trials of pioneer life, and contributed their 
share toward the advancement and development of the county. Mrs. Hoover was 
reared on her father's farm in Ohio, and died in Indiana, July 9, 1859. She 
was the mother of five children: Susanna, born in Ohio, December 4, 1846, married 
Frank Anglemyer (see sketch); John W., born in Ohio, November 25, 1848, married 
and resides on a farm near Wakarusa; one child died in infancy; David W., born on 
the farm where he now lives in Indiana, June 18, 1853; and Jonas R., born in Union 
township, December 22, 1857. David W. Hoover attended the district schools of 
his neighborhood and the Goshen High School, after which he attended normal, 
thus securing a good, practical education. He subsequently taught six terms of 
school in the county, worked at the carpenter's trade for four or five years, and at the 
death of his father he and his brother, Jonas R., bought the farm. David was 
married in 1879 to Miss Barbara E. Myers, a native of this county, born April 2, 1856, 
and one of a family of eight children born to Jonas and Mary (Berkey) Myers. Her 
father is living on a farm in Locke township, this county, and is a prominent farmer. 
She was educated in the schools of Locke township, and is a member of the Meu- 
nonite Church. In politics David Hoover is a Republican. Besides general farm- 
ing he and his brother are engaged in stockraising, and have some fine cattle, sheep 
and hogs. Jonas R. Hoover was also educated in the district schools, and his train- 
ing was good for a farmer boy. In 1883, when twenty-six years of age, he was 
married to Miss Lydia Myers, who was born March 7, 1860, in Elkhart county, and 
who received her education in the district schools of Locke township. She was a 
member of the Mennonite Church, and died May 9, 1892. Like his brother, Jonas, 
is a Republican in politics, and is much interested in political affairs. He is wide 
awake and thoroughgoing, and is interested in the development of the county. 

Adolph K.iMM is a prominent businessman in Mishawaka, Ind., is a worthy citizen 
in all the relations of life, and has always been interested in the advancement of the 
different affairs of his section. He is a successful business man; his generosity 
keeps pace with his prosperity, and he contributes liberally of his means to the 
advancement of worthy enterprises, in which respect his generosity has been recog- 
nized and appreciated. He is one of the proprietors of the Kamm & Schellinger 
Brewing Company, and owes his nativity to Germany, his birth occurring in Wurtem- 
berg, at Zoebingen Oberant Elwangen, June 13, 1842, his parents being Frank J., 
born August 17, 1814, and Antonia Maria (Wurstner) Kamm born March 26, 1820. 
To them were born five children, four of which lived to mature years: Adolph, 
Philomena, who was born January 4, 1845; Mathilda, who was born December 15, 
1845, Maria Antonia who was born April 20, 1847, and died October 10, 1848; 
Amalia, who was born May 24, 1857. 

Mr. Kamm, the father was a carpenter by trade, but about 1848, came to the 
very sensible conclusion that America offered better opportunities for advancement 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIANA. 353 

and the accumulation of a fortune, than his native land, and thither he came with his 
family, taking up his residence at Fryburg, Auglaize county, Ohio, where he lived 
until Adolph became sixteen years of age. The latter received but few educational 
advantages, as he began to work on his father's farm when young. At this age he 
started in the world to do for himself, making his first stop at Delphos, Ohio, where 
he began working in a brewery, and remained in that place for three years, after 
which he followed the same occupation at Ft. Wayne, Ind. , and from there to 
Toledo, Ohio. 

In 1870 Mishawaka, Ind., became his home, and having, by thrift and economy 
saved up some money, he formed a partnership with Clemens Dick (who accompanied 
him from Toledo), under the firm name of Dick & Kamm, and with him purchased 
the business of John Wagner, which had been established by that gentleman in 1853. 
Ten years later Mr. Dick sold his interest in the business to Mr. Kamm and Nicholas 
Schellinger, and in 1887 it was incorporated with a capital stock of $65,000, and 
officered as follows: Adolph Kamm, president; Nicholas Schellinger, treasurer, and 
Laura Kamm, secretary. The company built new and commodious buildings, more 
substantial and suitable to the business, and from time to time put in the most im- 
proved appliances used by brewers for the proper conduct and facilitation of their 
business. Their trade is principally in the surrounding towns, but is extensive and 
profitable. The article manufactured by this firm is of the finest quality, and 
although at all times freely sold, it is especially in demand during the summer 
months. Mr. Kamm owns a sub.stantial residence and other real estate of value, 
all of which has been obtained through his own industry, good management and 
shrewd business qualities. He was united in marriage to Maria Weber, April 12, 
1869, at Toledo, Ohio, and in 1870 brought his wife with him to Mishawaka, Ind., 
where she died December 31, 1871. The remains were taken to Toledo, Ohio, 
where the interment took place. After a period of nearly two years he was again 
united in marriage to Josephine Schellinger, on July 28, 1873. who was born June 
25, 1850, the daughter of Xaver and Elizabeth (Huber) Schellinger, and to them 
have been born eight children: Laura, born July 12, 1874; Rudolph, born February 
2, 1876; Johanna, born April 2, 1878; Paulina, born Julv 31, 1880; Albin, born 
December 13, 1882, Marie, born December 8, 1886; Adolph. Jr., July 26, 1889, and 
Eugene, born August 11, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Kamm are devout members of the 
Catholic Church and in polities he is a stanch Democrat. He is one of the self- 
made men of Mishawaka, for he began the battle of life with no means and by 
thrift and hard work has made his property. In addition he always exercised his 
judicious economy, although he has never been in the least niggardly in his support 
of enterprises that have recommended themslves to his excellent judgment. He is 
a patron of education and has taken pains to give his children good educational 
advantages. His daughter Laura obtained her education in Father Oechtering's 
parochial school and the St. Elizabeth Academy at St. Louis, Mo., and now keeps 
the books in her father's firm, being very capable for her age and a practical, busi- 
ness-like young woman. His son Rudolph is receiving his education in St. Jerome's 
College, at Berlin, Ontario, Canada, and Johanna is being educated in the St. Joseph 
Academy at Chicago, 111. 

On July 17, 1882, an infant child was found in front of Mr. Kamm's residence, 
which received the name of Arthur W. Kamm; the child lived but a short time, dying 
October 31, 1882; its parents are still unknown. 

Xaver Schellinger, the father of Mrs. Kamm, was born in Muehlheim, Wur- 
temberg, October 25, 1817; he was a miller by trade and was in comfortable cir- 
cumstances. He was married to Elizabeth Huber, who was born November 11, 
1817, and died in her native land September 7, 1861. On November 11, 1863, he 
was married to the widow of Severin Fischer; they came to America in 1868 and 
settled at Mishawaka, where she died May 28, 1888. Mr. Schellinger by his first 
wife is the father of six children: Leopold, who was born July 21, 1846; Nicho- 



354 PICTORIAL AND BIOQItAPHICAL 

las, born November -4, 1847; Edward, born May 1, 1855; Gustave, born March 16, 
1857; Joseph born October 7, 1860, and Josephine (Mrs. Kamm), who was born 
June 25, 1850. Mr. Schellinger is living at the age of seventy-five years, is a Catho- 
lic in religious belief, and a man of very honorable character. 

Louis Iffert. Among the well known farmers and stockraisers of Union town- 
ship, none has a better or more thoroughly cultivated farm than he whose name is now 
given. He is a son of one of the early pioneers, Martin Iffert, who was born in Ger- 
many, October 9, 1812, and who was a son of John and Aun M. (Eckhart) Iffert. 
John Iffert and his wife died in the Fatherland. He was a soldier in the German 
army, and was for many years blind, having lost his sight in the service. Martin 
was also a soldier in the German army, and a shoemaker by trade. He was mar- 
ried in the old country to Miss Anna E. Miller, who was born June 3, 1817, and 
■who was the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Hartman) Miller. Mr. and Mrs. 
Miller were the parents of two children. Martin Iffert and his wife settled down in the 
old country after marriage and he followed his trade there until 1841, when the 
family took passage for the United States. They landed at Baltimore but went 
from there to Ohio, and settled in Colimibiana county, where Mr. Iffert worked at his 
trade for eight years. In 1852 he emigrated to Elkhart county, Ind., and located 
in Harrison township on eighty acres of land, where he resided until 1860. He 
then moved to Union township and bought a farm upon which he and his esti- 
mable wife are now living. They are a worthy old couple and highly respected. By 
industry and frugality they have accumulated considerable property and can pass 
their declining years in ease and comfort. Their children are all around them and 
are prosperous citizens. Both Martin Iffert and the sharer of his joys and sorrows, 
are members of the German Reformed Church and active in all good work. 
The children born to them were named as follows: John M., born October 22, 1837, 
is a prosperous farmer of Jackson township, Elkhart county; Catherine, born Decem- 
ber 6, 1843, is now the wife of John Yoder; Anna R., born December 20, 1S44, is 
now Mrs. Samuel Smith, of Union townsbij); Louis, the subject of this sketch; 
Christian, born December 6, 1848, is farming in Union township; Daniel, born Janu- 
ary 29, 1851, is farming in Union township; and Edward, born April 11, 1855, is 
also farming in Union township. The father of these children is a strong Repub- 
lican in his political views and is a prominent old citizen. Louis Iffert was born in 
Columbiana county, Ohio, January 28, 1845, and was but four years of age when 
the family moved to this county. He attended the district school and worked on the 
home place until twenty-five years of age, and then, on September 26, 1871, he 
married Miss Mahala Weaver, a native of the Buckeye State, born June 9, 1852, and the 
daughter of Abraham and Frances (Berkey) Weaver. Mr. Weaver was born in Ohio, 
and moved with his family to Elkhart county in 1861. There he made his home 
until 1875, when he moved to Kansas and he and his wife are residing in that State 
at the present time. Their children were named as follows: Mahala (Mrs. 
Iffert); Elizabeth, now Mrs. Albert Beechly, of Kansas; and Samuel M., a farmer of 
Kansas. Louis Iffert and wife are the happy parents of six children, as follows: 
Ida, born September 30, 1872, is the wife of Albert Auglemyer (see sketch of John An- 
glemyer); Almira, born March 25, 1876; Martin M., born January 28, 1879, at home; 
Henry L. and Henrietta, born July 11, 1882; Henry died when nineteen months 
old; and Laura, born September 6, 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Iffert are members and 
regular attendants of the German Baptist Church, and are active in all good work. 
Mr. Iffert is a Republican in his political views. He has 100 acres of choice land, 
and is deeply interested in the breeding of good stock, as is also his brother, who 
owns a farm in the same neighborhood. As a business man and gentleman, he en- 
joys the respect of his associates, being regarded as one of the most intelligent and 
leading members of society in his locality. 

M. B. St.\ley is president of the A. C. Staley Manufacturing Company, of South 
Beu'l, In'., which is one of the most noteworthy institutions of thecounty and is con- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 355 

ducted in a highly successful manner under its present president. This gentleman is a 
product of Marshall county, Ind., where he was born August 4, 1847, a son of Alex- 
ander C. and Mary (Welch) Staley, natives of Virginia and Ohio respectively. This 
family is of German and English origin. The paternal great-grandfather came 
from Germany at an early day and settled near Harper's Ferry, Va. , where he died. 
He was a soldier of the Revolution. The grandfather, Jacob Staley, was a soldier 
of the War of 1812, as was also the maternal grandfather, Joseph Welch. Both 
these gentlemen were early settlers of Ohio and were tillers of the soil, but Iklr. 
Staley was also engaged in milling in an early day. He died in Marshall county, 
Ind. The father of the subject of this sketch came to St. Joseph county, Ind., in 
1862 to establish a woolen-mill, and soon had a race put in, a mill erected and in 
operation on the site of the present establishment, having brought his machinery 
thitber from Plymouth, Ind., in 1855. The establishment was conducted by A. C. 
Staley until 1888, when a stock company was formed and he was made president, a 
position he faithfully and capably filled until his death in 1889. The mother died 
in 1877. To their union seven children were given, four of whom are living: Mrs. 
Ellen Sapp, M. B., Byron A., a farmer of Harrison county. Mo., and Mrs. William 
Mack. The father was a very prominent man of this section, was a member of the 
city council several terms and trustee of the water works four years. M. B. Staley, 
whose name is at the head of this sketch, may be said to have been brought up in 
the woolen business, but at the same time received a good education in the common 
schools and the Northern Indiana College. After the death of his father, as he had 
been in the woolen-mill off and on from his ninth year, he was made president of 
the coQcern, and this position he still continues to fill. This establishment gives em- 
ployment to about fifty men and women, not counting a number of traveling sales- 
men who are kept constantly on the road. Mr. Staley is one of the most enterpris- 
ing men of the city, and as his honor is unimpeachable he has many friends and 
patrons. In 1875 Miss Eva, daughter of Judge Thomas S. Stantield, a very promi- 
nent man of the State, became his wife. Mrs. Staley is an accomplished and ami- 
able lady and is a worthy member of the Presbyterian Church. 

Winkler Brothers. Fred and Leouhard Winkler are extensively engaged in the 
manufacture of wagons, carriages, heavy truck wagons, and are making a specialty 
of street sprinklers. In addition to this extensive business they are also coal, wood 
and grocery merchants, and are all-round, pushing and prosperous business men, 
who have the intelligence to see and grasp all opportunities for bettering their 
condition, althoucrh tbey never do so at the expense of others. Their house was 
established in 1877, and since that time they have carried on an enormous business, 
the excellent character of their product winning them wide recognition. Fred, the 
senior member of the firm, was born in Putnam county, Ohio, Juh' 12, 1854, Leon- 
hard's birth occurring at the same place November 11, 1858, their parents being 
Charles and Barbara (Brakeman) Winkler, both of whom were native Germans, the 
birth of the former occurring November 11, 1831. He braved the dangers of the 
ocean in 1848 and came to America, landing in New York City, from which place he 
soon after immigrated to Cleveland, Ohio. Having been brought up in the mercantile 
business, he followed that occupation after coming to this country, but in 1852 
went back to his native laud. There he remained only a short time, wedding Miss 
Brakeman, and with his young bride returned to America in December, 1852. He 
settled in Putnam county, Ohio, and there once more entered upon a mercantile 
career at Gilboy, which business occupied his time and attention for some 
time. Having purchased a farm he located thereon and tilled the same with success 
until 1857, spending the two succeeding years in South Bend, Ind. At the end of 
this time he returned to Ohio, thence to Cass county, Mich., and for over twenty-five 
years resided on a farm in the vicinity of Niles. In March, 1891, he again came to 
South Bend, where he expects to spend the rest of his days. He is the father of six 
children, five living. Fred, the oldest son, was principally educated in Michigan, 



856 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

but completed his knowledge of the "world of books" in Notre Dame University, 
from which he graduated in 1874. He was brought up on a farm and helped to till 
the soil, but he and his brother Leonhard learned their trade at Niles. They started 
in business for themselves at that place with a capital of 15 cents, but being full 
of energy, courage and enthusiasm, they devoted their attention to their work, 
and as their credit was of the best, they soon began to see their way clear to success. 
After a visit to South Bend they decided that this would be an excellent manufact- 
uring point, and here determined to locate. They moved their property thither, and 
although total strangers here the merit of their work soon became universally 
recognized and their patronage began to assume satisfactory proportions. Their 
success was soon assured and they now occupy a high standing in financial and 
business circles. Their grocery, coal and wood yard are also paying enterprises, 
and speak in an eloquent manner as to the push and determination of these gentle- 
men. Fred was justice of the peace in Niles, Mich. , for three years. He was 
married May 7, 18S0, to Miss Emma J. Gardner, and has three children: Sadie, 
Genevieve and Alfreda. Mr. Winkler never smoked a cigar or took a chew of 
tobacco in his life, and in every respect is a temperate man and a model American 
citizen. Leonhard, the junior partner, was educated in the common schools and 
began learning his trade at the age of fourteen years in Niles, serving a three year 
apprenticeship. After a time he purchased his employer's business, associated with 
him his brother Fred, and since then has been an active man of affairs. Miss Mary 
Cavanaugh became his wife, andto their union one son has been given, Edward. Charles 
Winkler, a brother of Fred and Leonhard, was born in Putnam county, Ohio, Decem- 
ber 21, 1861, and in the common schools, the high school of Niles and the high school 
of South Bend he secured a good education. He is now a grocer of South Bend, 
and like his brothers, is a shrewd and successful man of business. Miss Alice 
Knoblock became his wife in 1889, and they have two children (twins): Carl and 
Crystle. Frank Winkler, brother of the above named gentlemen, was born in Cass 
county, Mich., March 4, 1871, obtained a public-school education and was reared on 
a farm. In 1891 he came to South Bend and has since been engaged in the livery 
business. Anna N. Winkler, a sister, is deceased, and Maggie, another sisler. was 
born in Cass county, Mich., in 1886. The standing of the Winkler Brothers 
is exceptionally good, both as regards business capacity and true American enter- 
prise, and they justly merit the representative position they have attained in their 
important industry. 

M. V. Beigee is a well-known citizen of St. Joseph county, Ind. , for he is the presi- 
dent and one of the large stockholders of the Mishawaka Woolen Manufacturing 
Company and a wide awake and public spirited citizen. He was born February 3, 
1847, in the county in which he is now residing, his father being Jacob Beiger, a 
native German, who came to America in 1844, bringing his family with him. He 
settled on a tract of land which he succeeded in clearing by hard work and persistent 
effort, and in time his efforts were rewarded to such an extent that he was justly 
considered a well-to-do man. He died in Beltenhousen, Wurtemburg, the old home 
of his birth, where he was making a visit in 1874, at which time he was sixty-one 
years of age. His family had been residents and natives of that town for genera- 
tions and were highly regarded in that community. To himself and wife a family 
of ten children was given: Elizabeth, Sarah. Mary, Theresa, Daniel, Henry J., 
Martin V., Grascence (who died at the age of eighteen years), John (who died at the 
age of eleven years), and Sophia (who also died when eleven years old). Mr. Beiger 
was one of the progressive German American citizens of this country and in politics 
■was a stanch Republican. Martin V. Beiger, the subject of this sketch and son of 
Jacob, received a good and practical education in the district schools in the vicinity 
of his rural home, which he supplemented by a four-year scientific course in Wabash 
College. At the early age of thirteen years he began clerking in the general store 
of A. B. Judson and finally had charge of his bank for three years prior to his 



MEMOinS OF INDIANA. 357 

twenty-first year. In 1864 he enlisted in the service of the United States as a private 
soldier in Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. 
He rendered efficient service and was not sick or in the hospital while in the army. 
After his return to Mishawaka he, in 1868, at the age of twenty-one years, became 
a member of the firm of M. V. Beiger & Co. and engaged in the manufacture of 
woolen cloth. In 1864 a stock company was formed. Mr. Beiger was placed in the 
management of the woolen factory and became an expert manufacturer, his goods 
becoming widely and favorably known. In 1872 he made a tour of England, France, 
Germany, Scotland and Switzerland, and made a thorough study of the manufacture 
of woolen goods. In 1886, seeing the successful sale of the felt boot, Mr. Beiger 
conceived the idea that wool boots could be made by knitting instead of felting, and 
began the industry of manufacturing an all-wool knit boot. The manufacture of the 
knit boot required special machinery for it, and Mr. Beiger associated with him Mr. 
Adolphus Eberhart, of Mishawaka, a skillful and practical mechanic, and these two 
men invented the required machinery and the process of making the all-wool knit 
boot, which is now generally ueed and considered one of the important inventions of 
the day. The business is now incorporated as the Mishawaka Woolen Manufacturing 
Company, with a capital stock of $200,000 and with officers as follows: M. V. Beiger, 
president: F. G. Eberhart, vice-president; J. C. Eberhart, secretary: A. Eberhart, 
superintendent; and Marion Campbell, treasurer. The directors are: C. Studebaker, 
J. M. Studebaker, M. V. Beiger, A. Eberhart, Marion Campbell. The business 
furnishes employment to about 150 persons and is a credit to Mishawaka as a busi- 
ness and manufacturing center and a credit to the enterprise and business push of 
the managers. The company has a capacity of about 250,000 pairs of boots per 
year and are doing a profitable and successful business. Mr. Beiger votes the 
Kepublican ticket, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, in which he has held the office of tnistee and steward for many years. His 
union occurred on the 30th of December, 1875, Mr. Beiger married Miss Susie Hig- 
gins, and they own and reside on one of the most beautiful and tasteful residences 
in Mishawaka, which is furnished in a tasteful and comfortable manner and is con- 
sidered one of the most hospitable homes of the city. Mr. Beiger also owns valuable 
real estate in Mishawaka, a one-half interest in the Tromp & Beiger block, and is 
the sole owner of two farms in Peun township. Mr. Beiger is of a decidedly prac- 
tical turn of mind, possesses keen commercial instincts, and these attibutes, coupled 
with great industry and perseverance and also strictly honorable methods, have been 
the means of building up a valuable and substantial business, a handsome property 
and an excellent reputation. 

C. Fassnacht, contractor and builder, South Bend, Ind. This work would be 
incomplete were mention not made of those artisans whose skill and labor have been 
utilized in the construction of her buildings and public institutions; and foremost 
among the number is C. Fassnacht, who has been closely identified with the modern 
architecture of South Bend. He has his office at 125 St. Joseph street, and resides 
at No. 1 Park avenue (Chafin place). He was born in Wittenberg, Germany, March 
4, 1850, a son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Schmidt) Fassnacht, the former of whom 
was quite a prominent figure iu the section in which he lived, and held a number of 
political positions. In 1859 he, with his family, took passage at Havre, France, for 
America, and arrived at New York City after a thirty-seven days' ocean voyage on a 
sailing vessel. From New York they came directly to St. Joseph county, where they 
joined friends who had preceded them. Mr. Fassnacht located five miles south of 
Mishawaka, where he lived until his death, which occurred in the fall of 1888. His 
widow still makes her home on that farm. They were the parents of the following 
children: Andrew, of Chattanooga. Tenn. ; Frederick, a farmer of St. Joseph county; 
Hannah, wife of William Belle; Mrs. George Collmer, and Christopher. The sub- 
ject of this sketch was only nine years old when brought to this country, but prior to 
that time had attended school for three years in his native country, and finished his 



358 PICTORIAL ^iND BIOGRAPHICAL 

education in the English common schools of St. Joseph county. He assisted his 
father on the farm until nineteen years of age, when he began working at the car- 
penter's trade, completing his trade in South Bend under Henry S. Evans, after he 
had attained his twentieth year. He worked as journeyman until 1877, at which 
time he bought out Mr. Evans, and has since been doing an extensive contracting 
business on his own account. Among the numerous structures that are a eredit to 
his skill may be mentioned the Baptist Church, the Presbyterian Church, the resi- 
dence of Clem Studebaker, the Oliver office building, the G. Ford residence, the 
Wyman store, the Coquilard School building, the residence of J. M. Studebaker, the 
residence of J. F. Studebaker, the residence of Mr. Fish, the St. Joseph County 
Savings Bank and many other of the most prominent buildings of the city. His 
career has been one of honor and profit to himself, and although a poor boy he is 
now in good circumstances, the outcome of honest and earnest toil. He was a mem- 
ber of the city council two years, and politically, has always been a Republican. 
He is a member of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, and socially belongs to 
the I. O. O. F., Lodge No. 29, Encampment No. 9. He has been married since 
1877, at which time Miss Caroline E. Freyermuth became his wife and in time the 
mother of his two children: Walter and Homer. 

Alex Cdhtis, of Mishawaka, Ind., is well known to the citizens of St. Joseph 
county, as the proprietor of the well-known hostelry known as the Melburn House, 
which is a popular resort of the traveling public. The paternal grandfather of 
this gentleman was of English descent, and from an old and prominent colonial 
family of North Carolina. He followed the honorable and useful calling of a 
farmer and on his extensive plantation he reared a family of ten children: James, 
Alexander, David, Jacob, Andrew, Noah, William, Mary, Sarah and Ann. At an 
early day James Curtis removed with his family to Miami county, Ohio, and took up 
his residence on a farm near Troy, of which place he was among the ver}' first to 
settle, and owing to the fact that Indians were plentiful and sometimes hostile a 
stockade for defense was built. Mr. Curtis was a substantial and useful citizen, 
highly honored in the section in which he lived, and attained the advanced age of 
eighty years, dying in Miami county. James Curtis, his son, was the father of the 
subject of this sketch, and was born in Miami county, Ohio, January 7, 1807, and 
on his father's farm in that county he was reared to manhood, obtaining such a 
thorough and practical knowledge of the work that upon entering iipon the calling 
on his own account he made of it a success. He was married in his native county 
to Miss Nancy Byrkit, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Jacobs) Byrkit, of Penn 
township, St. Joseph Co., Ind. A family of eleven children was given to Mr. and 
Mrs. Curtis: William, Jacob, Alexander, Edmund, Alfred, James (who died at the 
age of four years), David, Mary E. , George, Frank and Loren, all of whom were 
born in Penn township with the exception of the two eldest children, William and 
Jacob, who were born in Miami county, Ohio. July 11, 1831, Mr. Curtis came to 
St. Joseph county, Ind., bringing his family with him, the journey being made by 
wagon, and made a location in the eastern portion of what is now Penn township, 
at which time there were no settlers in that section. Mr. Curtis took up forty acres 
of laud, cleared a small tract and built thereon a log cabin into which he and his 
wife and children at once moved. He then labored faithfully early and late to clear 
his laud, and by judicious management increased it until he became the owner of 
320 acres of excellent land, all of which he greatly improved in the way of build- 
ings, fences and clearing, making it one of the most valuable pieces of property in 
the county. The Indians were numerous in the country at the time of his settle- 
ment, and the bones of a promineut;Indian chief are moldering in an Indian bury- 
ing ground on the Curtis farm. Mrs. Curtis was a member of the Baptist 
Church, and was called from life at the age of seventy-five years. Mr. Curtis 
was one of the reliable pioneer settlers of the township and brought up a respecta- 
ble family of children. One son, Alfred, was in the Civil war. Company F, Forty- 



MEMOIRS OF lyni.LXA. 359 

eighth ladiaaa Volunteer lufaatry, under Captain Burkett, and was in the battles 
of Corinth, luka, and several skirmishes during the eighteen mouths that he was in 
the service. Alex Cnrtis was born on the old homestead in St. Joseph county, 
November 25, 1834, was brought up amid the wilds of a pioneer farm and obtained 
his knowledge of books in the old-time log school-house, his attendance being lim- 
ited to a few months each winter, the rest of the time being spent in the usual 
duties attendant upou clearing a woodland farm. The limited education he ob- 
tained was greatly increased in after years by a varied and extensive course of reading 
and by valuable experience gained in the management of his business affairs. At the 
age of twenty-three years, on May 14, 1857, he was united in marriage to Miss 
Catherine Eggins, a daughter of John and Isabel (Rogers) Eggins, and in time a 
family of five children gathered about their board: Flora E., Martha J., James D. , 
William W. and Alex Buford, all of whom were born on their father's farm in Penn 
township. For some time prior to his marriage Mr. Curtis followed carpentering 
as well as farming, but after his marriage he settled on a farm in Fulton county, 
Ind., where he lived one and a half years, after which he purchased laud in Penn 
township, St. Joseph county, lud. Seven years later he bought a fine tract of land 
comijrising eighty acres southeast of Mishawaka, about forty acres of which he suc- 
ceeded in clearing and on which he made his home until his removal to Mishawaka 
in 1881, when he purchased an excellent residence property in the town and worked 
at his former occupation of carpentering until 1885, when he became the proprietor 
of the Milburn House, which he has ever since successfully managed. His house 
has become noted for the successful manner in which it is conducted, for the neat- 
ness and homelike appearance of the rooms as well as for the abundant and whole- 
some meals provided the guests, whose wants are carefully looked after by the at- 
tentive and gentlemanly host. Mr. Curtis is a man of high character and he con- 
ducts his business affairs on the soundest principles, and deservedly has the confidence 
and liking of the public in general and the traveling public in particular. He has 
been a hard worker all his life, and through honest merit has become one of the best 
known citizens of Mishawaka. He and his wife are members of the Baptist Church, 
and politically he is a Democrat. He filled the office of city marshal of Mishawaka 
in a very satisfactory manner during 1882-3 and since June, 1886, has filled the 
office of justice of the peace. His daughter, Mattie, who was an accomplished and 
promising young lady, died January 5, 1880, aged eighteen years, six months and 
twelve days. His daughter, Flora E., married John C. Boyer, a traveling salesman 
of Mishawaka, by whom she has one child — Hattie. The sons are in business. 
James D. has been deputy county clerk four years and obtained a good education 
in the public schools of Mishawaka; \Yilliam M. is secretary of the Kamer & Schil- 
linger Brewery Company of Mishawaka, and was a graduate of the South Bend 
Commercial College; Alex Buford has a good education and graduated at the South 
Bend Commercial College, is especially gifted in music and is a pianist of rare 
ability. 

Irving A. Siblet. A widely known business house of South Bend is that owned 
by Mr. Sibley, who is a practical, experienced man, thoroughly conversant with the 
business in all its branches, and his establishment is a most reliable one with which 
to enter into commercial relations. He is a native of Erie county, N. Y. , his natal 
day being June 27, 1852. His parents. Dr. William A. and Margery J. (Churchill) 
Sibley, were also natives of the State of New York, and of English-Scotch ancestry. 
The paternal grandfather, Abijah Sibley, was a worthy tiller of the soil of Erie 
county, N. Y. , where he was called from life. Dr. William A. Sibley was a gradu- 
ate of the Castleton (Vermont) Medical College, and practiced his profession in Col- 
lins Center, N. Y., where he lived and died. His widow, who resides in Buffalo, 
N. Y. , and two of his three children survive him, the names of the latter being 
William E. and Irving A. The latter was reared and educated in his native county, 
but at about the age of thirteen years he was left fatherless, and thereafter was com- 



'360 PICTOBIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

pelled to depend almost wholly upon his own exertions for a livelihood. For some 
time thereafter he worked as a farm hand, received the munificent compensation of $7 
per month, but this work he discontinued at the end of one summer, went to Buffalo 
and graduated from the public schools. Immediately following this he entered a 
broker's office, where he remained a few months, then entered the high school of 
Buffalo to finish his education. Three months later he left school to enter a retail 
shoe store owned by William R. Taylor, of Buffalo, and for two years was in the 
employ of this gentleman. When in his sixteenth year he was given the opportu- 
nity of going on the road as a salesman, which he eagerly grasped, and for two and 
one-half years traveled for George B. Tripp, which occupation was a thorough and 
practical school and of great benefit to him. In October, 1871, he engaged in the 
manufacture of shirts at 30(1 Main street, Buffalo, continuing this business with fair 
success until January 1, 1875. It was only a short time after engaging in this 
business that he had from thirty to forty girls in his employ and two traveling 
salesmen constantly on the road. At this time one of his brothers was traveling for 
a Chicago boot and shoe house, which sought the services of Irving Sibley and 
offered him $2,000 and expenses to travel for the house, but he immediately refused; 
■whereupon he at once received a telegram offering him $2,500. He went to Chicago, 
not with the intention of closing with the offer, but he became so impressed 
with their manner of doing business that he accepted the position and traveled for 
them for three years. The first year he continued to conduct his shirt factory, then 
sold it. He next traveled for M. D. Wells & Co. for two years, then for Greens- 
felder, Rosenthal & Co. for five years. In 1882 he purchased a three-fourths 
interest in the Denel County Bank of Gary, S. D., of which he was president 
until he came to South Bend. This investment doubled the money he put in it in 
three years. In 1885 he made up his mind to quit the road, having saved between 
$15,000 and S18,000 in ten years, and having been prevailed upon to go into the 
hardware business by a friend of his, and after spending some time in looking up a 
suitable location they finally settled on South Bend, and in January, 1885, their 
house was established on a sound financial basis. The partnership of Thayer & 
Sibley continued for two years when Mr. Sibley became the sole owner of the estab- 
lishment, and now carries one of the most complete and best stocked stores of the 
kind in the city. "He has proved a valuable addition to the city, and owing to his 
numerous worthy qualities as a man of affairs he is largely patronized and is doing 
a remarkably prosperous business. In 1872 he was united in marriage with Miss 
Cora E. Cui'tis, a native of Buffalo, N. Y. , and three sons have been given them: 
Irving A., Jr., William C. and Frank. 

Gottlieb FoRSTB.^UER, an old and prominent resident of Mishawaka, Ind., is a 
native of the city of Tuebingen, Wuertemburg. Germany, of which place his family 
have been residents for many generations and were among its prominent and wealthy 
citizens. His grandfather, William Forstbauer, was a manufacturer of soap, in 
which occupation he became wealthy. He lived all his days in his native town and 
he and all his family were members of the Lutheran Church, with which they con- 
nected themselves after the great Reformation. He became the father of five chil- 
dren: Gottlieb, Ferdinand, Frederick, Fredericka and Louisa. Gottlieb Forstbauer, 
his son, was born at the old family seat Tuebingen, in 1810, and was so fortiinate as 
to secure a very liberal education in the seminary of his native town, acquiring a 
thorough knowledge of Latin, French and German. He was educated for the min- 
istry but his taste did not tend in that direction and instead he became a brewer and 
a tavern keeper, at which he acquired a large amount of property. He was married 
to Katherina Eisenhart, and Gottlieb and Ferdinand were the fruits of their union. 
Mr. Forstbauer spent his life in the land of his birth and lived to be an old man. 
His son Ferdinand was a soldier in the war between Austria and Prussia and was 
shot and instantly killed at the battle of Tauber Bishoffsheim, Baden, and was buried 
on the battlefield. Gottlieb, the subject of this biography, was born in the old 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAJS^A. 361 

native town of his forefathers, September 8, 1839, and for eight years was an attend- 
ant of the common schools of his native land. In 1853, before he was fourteen years 
of age, he came to America and in New York learned the art of wood carving. After 
the firing on Fort Sumter he, on April 26, 1861, enlisted in Company A, Seventh 
Regiment, New York Volunteer Infantry, and served until September 29, 1862, 
being honorably discharged at Washington, D. C. He was in the engagement at 
Big Bethel, Va. Part of his regiment was detailed to the artillery service and care- 
fully drilled, and at the naval engagement between the Confederate ram " Merrimac" 
and the United States frigate " Cumberland " at Newport News; and did good service 
when the " Cumberland " was in a sinking condition. The next day the famous battle 
between the "Merrimac" and "Monitor" was fought, to which stirring historical 
event Mr. Forstbauer was an eye witness. In May, 1862, the regiment joined the 
Peninsular campaign, was engaged in the battle of Fair Oaks and also in the seven 
days' tight in the following engagements: Cold Harbor, Savage Station, White Oak 
Swamp. Charles City Cross Road and Malvern Hill. Mr. Forstbauer being shot in 
the last-named engagement, iu the under part of his elbow, by a piece of grape 
canister, and was in the hospital from July 7, 1862, until the 26th of September, 
when he was honorably discharged. He thereupon returned to New York and until 
1866 worked at his trade, when he went to Detroit, Mich., where he secured employ- 
ment as a wood carver in a factory for one year, since which time he has successfully 
followed his trade in Mishawaka, lud. June 28, 1868, he was married to Elizabeth, 
daughter of Martin and Catberina (Freudemau) Saner, the former of whom came 
to this country from Germany in 1845, residing first in Buffalo, N. Y., in 1846, 
settling in Stark county, Ohio, and in 1852 in St. Joseph county, Ind., becoming 
the owner of a farm in Madison township on which he is still living, a substan- 
tial aud well-to-do farmer. He and his wife became the parents of ten children: 
Martin, Christina, Elizabeth, John, Mary, Caroline, Catberina, Paul and Paulina 
(twins) and Anna. Mr. Sauer is a Lutheran in religious belief and politically is a 
Democrat. Since his marriage Mr. Forstbauer has been a resident of Mishawaka. 
He and his wife have the following children: Edward, Catberina, Adolph, George 
and Bertha. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church and he is a 
supporter of Republican principles. He has always been very industrious and owns 
the property in which he lives. He is a very skillful carver and is foreman of the 
carving department of the Roper Furniture Factory. 

Dr. Henry J. Defrees, a young but promisiug physician of Nappanee, Ind., 
although still in the dawn of the success which has attended his efforts in a profes- 
sional way, has already given abundant evidence of the ability which qualifies him 
for a high place in the medical profession. Truly ambitious, and with an ambition 
whose aim is pure and unsullied, there seems no reason why his unquestioned abil- 
ity should not find full scope in relieving the pains which a suffering world is heir 
to. He was born in Elkhart county, Ind., September 27, 1861, on his father's farm, 
and was the eldest child born to Jared and Josephine (Fisher) Defrees (see sketch 
following this). The Doctor's early life was passed on his father's farm, and in the 
district school he acquired a good education. From an early age he manifested a 
strong desire for the medical profession, and in 1881 entered the Chicago College 
of Pharmacy, which he attended one year. Following this he began the study of 
medicine with Dr. Seusenich, of Wakarusa, subsequently entered Rush Medical 
College, of Chicago, graduating from that well-known institution in 1888. Imme- 
diately after this he began practicing at Mil wood, Ind., continued there until 1891, 
and then located at Nappanee, where he almost immediately entered upon a success- 
ful practice. He is a young man of unusual talent, and has met with good success. 
He enjoys the confidence of all who know him, and his future prospects are bright 
indeed. In politics he is a stanch advocate of Republican principles. In the year 
1889 he was married to Miss Maggie Leatherman, of Wakarusa, who was born 
January 4, 1865, and who was the daughter of Isaac Leatherman. She was one of 



362 PICTORIAL AND BIOOHAPHICAL 

eleven children, and was reared on ber father's farm, receiving her education in the 
district school. To the Dr. and Mrs. Defrees has been born one bright little child, 
Forrest, whose birth occurred November 20, 1890. The Doctor is a member of the 
State Medical Society, and a member of Kosciusko County Medical Society. He is 
also a member of the Knights of Pythias. Mrs. Defrees holds membership in the 
Mennonite Church, and is interested in all good work. 

Jabed Defrees. Mr. Defrees possesses those qualities of industry and energy 
so characteristic of the native Hollander, and is one of the most progressive and 
substantial farmers and stockraisers of Locke township, Elkhart Co. , Ind. He was 
born in Freeland, Holland, January 8, 1832, and his parents, Stafold and Hannah 
(Whisphway) Defrees, were natives of the old country, and there passed their entire 
lives. The father was liorn December 5, 1791, and died September 17, 1860, and 
the mother was born October 11, 1800, and died September 20, 1851. This worthy 
coiiple reared a family of seven children: Harvey, Henry, John, Jared, Andrew, 
Durke and John C Two of these children died, but the remainder came to the 
United States, and settled in Michigan and Indiana. Henry, Jared and Andrew 
settled in Locke township, Elkhart county, and became farmers and prominent citi- 
zens. Henry died in 1890, leaving a family in Locke township. Jared Defrees, 
the subject of this sketch, became familiar with the duties of farm life when a boy, 
and early in life learned the carpenter's trade. At the age of twenty-one years, he 
emigrated to America, and landed at Quebec, Canada. He crossed the ocean in a 
sailing vessel of 700 passengers, of whom ninety died while at sea. After reach- 
ing Quebec, our subject worked at his trade for some time, but subsequently went 
to Montreal, and thence to Detroit, Mich. From there he found his way to 
Elkhart county, Ind., in the fall of 1854, and worked at his trade, and on a farm 
until 1861. At that date he moved to the farm on which he now lives, and here he 
has resided ever since. He has met with fair success in his different occupations and 
has ever been upright and honorable in all his dealings. In the year 1860 Mr. 
Defrees was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Fisher, a native of Holland, born 
February 27, 1843, and the daughter of Class H. and Hannah (Simensina) Fisher, 
natives of Holland also. Mr. Fisher pursued the occupation of a fisherman, and 
followed the sea until 1842, when he married, and later crossed the ocean to Amer- 
ica. He settled in Jackson township, Elkhart Co., Ind., with his wife and four chil- 
dren, and there, in connection with farming, carried on the dairy business. After 
tilling the soil for many years, he thought to better his condition by securing more 
land, and went to Oregon in 1891 to visit their children, and there they now reside. 
His children, nine in number, were named as follows: Josephine, Henry, Jacob, John, 
Matthew, Martha, William, Anna and Benjamin, all now residents of Oregon except 
Mrs. Defrees, and her brother Jacob, who is now residing in Union township. The 
Fisher family held membership in the Mennonite Church. Mr. and Mrs. Defrees 
have experienced many hardships as pioneer settlers, and found it very hard to get 
a start in the land of their adoption. Hard work, ceaseless activity, and great fru- 
gality brought them through, and they now own a good farm and a comfortable 
home. Mr. Defrees worked at his trade and received but 50 cents a day, when he 
first came to this country, but economy and industry soon brought him to the front. 
Mr. Defrees is a member of the Mennonite Church, his wife of the United Brethren, 
while their children belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is one of the 
public-spirited men of his section. As a stockraiser he has met with much success, 
and he has also been quite successful in raising grain. He is a well-to-do, honest, 
farmer, and is well liked in the community. To his marriage were born six children, 
as follows: Henry, a leading physician of Nappanee, was born September 27, 1861; 
Jacob, attending Parsons' Horological Institute, at Peoria, 111., was born February 
8, 1863; William, born November 29, 1865, married Miss Mary Montgomery, who 
bore him two children, Clarence and Edith, the latter dying in infancy; Hannah, 
was born April 22, 1870, and died at the age of sixteen years; Franklin, born Octo- 




(Sooojfeeji AKtii Ch- 



(yZ^^y/z^^^^-t^-tA^ 



MEMOIRS OP INDIANA. 365 

ber 20, 1874, assists his father on the farm, and Otto, born September 27, 1879, is 
in school. 

Lewis T. Stover is the efficient, intelligent and energetic marshal of South 
Bend, Ind., and besides is a substantial and successful man of business, being the 
owner of some good and valuable property in the city. His father, John Stover, 
was born in Botetourt county, Va., February 25, 1805, and was married there to 
Miss Julia Stratton, whose birth occurred on October 27, 1809, their union being 
blessed in the birth of the following children: Edward, James, George, Lemuel, 
Augusta, Lewis T. and Lucy A. About 1830 John Stover removed to the 
Buckeye State, but one year later came to St. Joseph county, Ind., and settled first 
on Palmer's Prairie, and later on wild land in Center township, where he passed 
the remainder of his days, dying March 25, 1846, at the age of forty-one years and 
twenty-six days, having, in connection with farming, followed the calling of a 
cobbler. His widow survived him until February 14, 1872. This worthy and 
highly esteemed couple were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
politically he was a Democrat. Lewis T. Stover was born on the old home farm in 
this county, March 8, 1844, and received the education and rearing of the average 
farmer's boy. At the age of eighteen years he left the plow to enlist in his country's 
service, and on October 6, 1862, his name could be found on the rolls of Company 
E, Sixty-third Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until 
the war terminated and he was honorably discharged, at Kaleigh, N. C, October 
29, 1865, returning immediately to South Bend, which place he reached November 
3. In the battle of Resaca, Ga., May 14, 1864, he was wounded on the top of his 
head by a piece of shell, and fell senseless on the battlefield. He was conveyed to 
the hospital at Chattanooga, where he remained one month. His regiment lost in 
killed and wounded 213 men, while charging the rebel works. He was then in the 
battle of Kenesaw Mountain, June 16, 1864, and was wounded by a minie-ball 
across the top of the forehead, and was again stretched senseless on the field. Upon 
recovering consciousness he refused the aid of a stretcher and walked to the rear. 
He was in the hospital on Lookout Mountain for two months, after which he 
rejoined his regiment at Atlanta, Ga., and participated in the Atlanta campaign, 
and was present when that city was captured. He was also at Columbia and 
Franklin, Tenn., the rebels charging thirteen times in the last engagement. His 
command then fell back to Nashville and fought a two days' fight with Gen. Hood. 
He was at Fort Anderson, Willmington, N. C, where he assisted in the capture of 
the town and in the retaking of 500 Union prisoners; also at Raleigh, at the sur- 
render of Gen. Johnston, where he was appointed assistant postmaster of the 
military postoflice, under Gen. Ruger. After his return to St. Joseph county, he 
was married in Centre township to Miss Eliza A. Reasor, December 2, 1866, 
daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth Reasor, and to their union one child was 
given: Elmer H., who died in infancy. After his marriage Mr. Stover farmed and 
was in the lumber business, in each of which occupations he did well. He has 
always been a Democrat, has served two terms as township assessor, was appointed 
superintendent of the St. Joseph County Asylum December 1, 1881, in which 
capacity he served three years, and thereafter served six months as guard at the 
Michigan City State Penitentiary. Returning to South Bend he turned his attention 
to butchering, in partnership with Henry Burt, under the firm name of Burt & 
Stover, and followed this business with success for four years. In 1888 he was 
elected city marshal of South Bend, and after serving two years was re-elected, 
carrj-ing every ward in the city and running far ahead of his ticket. In 1891 he 
was reappointed to the superintendency of St. Joseph County Asylum, which 
position he is still ably filling. He has greatly improved the appearance of the 
in.stitntiou and farm since taking charge of it, and although when he first filled the 
oflSce the produce of the farm nearly supported the institution, it has since exceeded 
this. In 1891, 500 bushels of wheat were raised, 1,000 bushels of corn, 421 bushels 



366 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of rye, 400 bushels of potatoes, 40 bushels of turnips, 15 bushels of beans, and 
20 bushels of tomatoes, and canned about 500 quarts of different kinds of fruit and 
berries. The general health of the inmates has improved, and all the buildings are 
in good sanitary condition. Mr. Stover is an efhcient officer, and the discipline of 
the place is kind and wholesome, and the entire farm, buildings, etc., present a neat 
and attractive appearance. He makes a business of anything that he undertakes, 
and is wide awake, pushing and enterprising, tlie proper man in the proper place. 

Dr. John B. Beeteling was born in Ciuciimati, Ohio, January 27, 1860. He 
attended the schools of Cincinnati until reaching his eighteenth year, when he became 
a student at Notre Dame University, Ind., where he was graduated both in the sci- 
entific and classical courses, with degrees of B. S. and A. B., followed by the 
degrees of A. M. and M. S. two years later. Returning to Cincinnati, he matricu- 
lated at the Miami Medical College, now the medical department of the Cincinnati 
University, and after a three years' course was graduated with the degree of M. D. 
The young Doctor located in his native city, and proved from the first moment his 
fitness for the profession he had chosen. For two years he was a member of the 
city board of health, and during the great flood of 1884 was an active member of the 
relief corps. In 1885 he was appointed staff officer of St. Mary's Hospital, serving in 
that capacity until September, 1888. The excellent opportunities which this insti- 
tution afforded for the study of operative surgery were not neglected by Dr. Berte- 
ling. In 1888 President Walsh, of Notre Dame University, offered him the position 
of professor of anatomy and physiology at the university, which was accepted, and 
in September of the same year he changed his residence to South Bend, Ind., a 
flourishing manufacturing town, two miles south of the college. In addition to his 
duties as lecturer on anatomy, the Doctor was appointed attending physician to the 
institution, and was also invited to attend the pupils and Sisters of St. Mary's Acad- 
emy, a young ladies' seminary in charge of the Sisters of the Holy Cross order, and 
located one mile west of Notre Dame. While thus engaged at both institutions Dr. 
Berteling opened an office in South Bend, in the Oliver Opera House building, and in 
a very short time established himself as one of the prominent physicians of the town. 
Two years afterward he was elected president of the county medical society, and re- 
elected for a second term. Thus far Dr. Berteling has not chosen a specialty, but he 
has been unusually successful in medical and surgical diseases of the chest, and he 
enjoys the confidence of the best men in the profession. He was married in 1886 to 
Miss Alice McCabe, of Milwaukee, and his family relations are most happy. There 
are three children: Marjorie, John and Hildegarde. Since coming to South Bend 
Dr. Berteling' s residence has been on Taylor street. 

William W. Hawkins is an old and prominent resident of Mishawaka, Ind., 
was born in Marshall county, Ind., September 22, 1845, grandson of Thomas Haw- 
kins, who was a pioneer of Marion county, Ind. , where he became the owner of a 
fine body of land ten miles from Indianapolis consisting of 300 acres. He was mar- 
ried twice, his second wife being a Mrs. Pogue. By his first wife he became 
the father of six children: John, William, Thomas, Mary and two whose names 
are unknown. One daughter married a Mr. Van Dyke, a prominent merchant of 
Indianapolis, and the other is married and lives in Rushville, Ind. ; Thomas died 
at the age of seventy years, was buried on the old homestead just out the city limits 
of Cumberland, where a monument marks his last resting place. His son, Thomas, 
the father of the subject of this sketch, was born on his father's farm, where 
he was also reared and received a common-school education. He was married to 
Elizabeth Yeakley, daughter of William and Phoebe (McAlrath) Yeakley, but Mrs. 
Hawkins was called from this life after giving birth to two children: Marian M. and 
William W., the latter being two years of age at the time of his mother's death. For 
his second wife Mr. Hawkins took Miss Phoebe McAlrath and she also died after 
bearing two children: Elmer, and an infant that died. Sophia Allman became Mr. 
Hawkins' third wife and presented him with three children: Wellington, Alburtns 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 367 

and Bertha. Owing to his advanced years Mr. Hawkins served only three months 
in the Civil War, being a member of the Ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer In- 
fantry, during which time he participated in the battle of Cheat Mountain. In 
1879 he went to Kansas and settled on land in McPherson county near Christiana, 
becoming the owner of 160 acres. He has always been industrious and push- 
ing and is now enjoying a fair measure of prosperity. William W. Hawkins was 
educated in the common schools and in 1861, at the age of sixteen years, he enlisted 
in Company I, Twenty-ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he 
served until December 3, 1865, when he was honorably discharged at Marietta, Ga., 
having served four years three mouths and six days, during which time he partici- 
pated in the battles of Shiloh, Stone River, Chattanooga, Chickamauga, Liberty 
Gap, Dalton, Corinth, Decatur. Perrysville and many skirmishes, some of 
which were very hotly contested. He was slightly wounded at Chickamauga, 
and his Springfield rifle, which he carried in his hands, was shattered to pieces. 
He then took tbe rifle of a dead comrade and carried it through the remain- 
der of the war. A short time before receiving his discharge he had a severe attack 
of sickness — erysipelas— which resulted in the total loss of the sight of one eye, and 
the sight of the other eye is greatly impaired. He was a good soldier and was 
promoted after the battle of Chattanooga to second sergeant. For three months he 
"Was chief bugler and sounded the calls of battle at Dalton, his first colonel being John 
F. Miller who afterward became the California millionaire. While in the service 
his regiment marched over 7,000 miles, over one-fourth of the distance around the 
globe. Although but a mere boy, not out of his teens when the war closed, he en- 
dured the hardships of the soldier's life and the severe and protracted marches with 
fortitude, and so far as bodily health was concerned came out of the service much better 
off than many older soldiers. He has a vivid remembrance of his army life and can 
portray many of its scenes in an interesting and telling manner. After the war he 
was in the service of the United States Government for two years and assisted in 
establishing national cemeteries at Marietta and Andersonville, Ga. He was in 
•charge of twenty-five men at Marietta and was assistant clerk and timekeeper at 
Andersonville. In the former place there are 10,151 soldiers buried and at Ander- 
sonville 13,714 Union soldiers who died as prisoners. After this service Mr. Haw- 
kins went to Rome, Ga., and in 1868 learned the iron molder's trade with Noble 
Bros. & Co., an English firm. In 1873 he returned to Plymouth, Ind., and soon 
went to Chicago for treatment for his eyes and worked in the Cook County Hospital 
Dispensary for some time. He then resumed his trade in that city, later followed it 
in Indianapolis for one year, after which he spent one year in the dispensary of the 
■ Soldier's Home at Dayton, Ohio. In 1879 he came to South Bend and worked in 
the foundry of the Oliver Chilled Plow Company thirteen months. In 1880 he 
came to Mishawaka, since which time he has been with the St. Joseph Iron Com- 
pany and the Dodge Manufacturing Company, where he is now engaged as a molder. 
November 28, 1879, he was married to Annetta P. Kitson, a daughter of Jonathan 
and Philinda (McChristen) Kitson, the former of whom was born of German parents 
and became a resident of Mishawaka in 1878. He settled at Niles, Mich., in 1892 
and is engaged in farming. To Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins six children have been born: 
Don E., born September 27, 1880; Mabel E., born May 7, 1883, and died at the age 
of three years; Ernest R., born March 11, 1885; Annebel, born July 22, 1887, and 
died at the age of five years; Birdie May, born November 28, 1891, and Flora A., 
born August 21, 1892. Since coming to Mishawaka Mr. Hawkins has become the 
owner of a comfortable home on the north side. His wife is a member of the 
Methodist Church, and socially he is a member of the G. A. R. That he was a 
trusted and efiScient soldier is attested by the fact that at different times he was 
presented with two rolls of honor by the officers of his regiment, in acknowledg- 
ment of his meritorious services. In July, 1865, at Marietta, Ga. , be was detailed 
as a clerk at the headquarters of Gen. John D. Stephenson on the court martial 



888 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

records, in which capacit}' he worked three months, the last part of his service being 
at Atlanta, Ga. He has, by hard study during his life as a soldier and since, gained 
a fair knowledge of chemistry, botany and music, and writes a good hand. He 
was one of the detachment from the Twenty-ninth Indiana Regiment, which took 
the bodv of Gen. McPherson from Ringgold, Ga., to Chattanooga, Tenn. Mrs. 
Hawkin's father and mother became the parents of the following children: Sanford 
P., Edward S., Mary E., Annetta P., Clarence, Ida, Sherman and Frank. 

J.\coB B. Miller. To the person who closely applies himself to any occnpation 
which he has chosen as his calling in life, there can only come one result — that of 
success, and a high place in the esteem of those among whom he has made his 
home. And Mr. Miller is no exception to the rule, for it has only been by industry 
anei strict attention to agricultural pursuits that he has attained to the position 
which he now enjoys. He owns 100 acres of as well-improved land as can be found 
in the county — probably the best improved as to its buildings — and is engaged in 
general farming and stockraising. His pleasant residence is a home indeed, and 
at once a monument and a reward of patient continuance in well-doing, hard toil 
and sober living. Mr. Miller was born in Darke county, Ohio, July 12, 1841, and 
is a son of David C. and Rachel (Bigler) Miller, both natives of Pennsylvania, the 
father born in Montgomery county, in 1817, and the mother in Washington county 
the same year. (For further particulars see sketch of David C. Miller.) Our sub- 
ject was the only son in a family of ten children, as follows: Nancy, Jacob, Mary, 
Hannah, Susan. Sarah, Julia, Rachel, Lovina and Malinda. Of these four are de- 
ceased — the eldest, the youngest and two others. Jacob was but nine years of age 
when the family emigrated to Indiana, and he was reared principally in Union town- 
ship, Elkhart county. He received his education in the Miller School-house and was 
reared to mature years on his father's farm, assisting in the arduous duties of the 
same until twenty-six years of age. In the year 1866 he married Miss Esther Swi- 
hart and rented a farm for one year. Later he moved to Kosciusko county, near 
Warsaw, where he lived for five years, after which he moved to his father's place 
and carried it on for three years. In 1876 he bought his present place and has 
since been engaged in improving and developing his farm. In his political views 
Mr. Miller is a Democrat. He has held the office of school director, also supervisor, 
and is interested in all public matters of any consequence. He has been usually 
successful as an agriculturist and his success is due largely to his excellent judg- 
ment and strict honesty and upright dealings: the proiid position he now occupies 
as a representative citizen being a just tribute to his worth. He is a member of the 
German Baptist Church and is deeply interested in religious and educational matters. 
His wife was born in Seneca county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Samuel and Fannie 
(Baker) Swihart. Samuel Swihart was born in Washington county, Penn., and of 
German descent, his father having been Peter Swihart. Mrs. Swihart was the 
daughter of Daniel Baker. Of the foiir children born to Mr. and Mrs. Swihart, Mrs. 
Miller was second in order of birth. They were named as follows: Jonas, Esther, 
Elizabeth and Ellen. All are living and all but Mrs. Miller in Kosciusko county. 
The parents died in that county where the father had emigrated in 1854, being 
among the earliest settlers. He became quite wealthy. He and wife held member- 
ship in the original German Baptist Church. Esther was born August 24, 1844, 
and was reared in Kosciusko county where she received a fair education. Mr. and 
Mrs. Miller's union has resulted in the birth of six living children: Samuel S., who 
was born April 18, 1868, is at home; David, born November 29, 1870. and resides at 
South Bend where he is employed at the county jail; Daniel, born April 1, 1872, is 
at home; Rachel, born September 2, 1874; William, born January 3, 1877, and 
Charles E. , born November 13, 1879. All the children have attended the Weldy 
School and all are well educated. David and Daniel have also attended the Nap- 
panee schools, and all the sons now voting support the principles of the Democratic 
party. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAyA. 8«9 

Melvis R. Phillips, Mishawaka, Ind. The subject of this sketch is one of the 
old settlers and soldier citizens of St. Joseph county, Ind. The Phillips family- 
originated in England, but Enoch Phillips, the grandfather of our subject, was 
probably a native of Massachusetts, and no doubt belonged to one of the old colo- 
nial families. In early life, we learn, that Enoch Phillips was a hunter, and it was 
while upon one of his famous hunting expeditions that he discovered the now cele- 
brated Saratoga Springs, and for some time he resided near there. He married and 
was the father of six children: Reuben, Amaziah, Levi, Darius, Charity and Amity. 
Mr. Phillips finally settled in Essex county, N. Y. on wild land, cleared up a farm, 
and lived to the age of almost one hundred years, dying about 1836. He was an 
honorable and upright character, and he was one of those old pioneer hunters of 
the Eastern States who were unique features of the early day in that section. Reu- 
ben Phillips, the son of the above and the father of our subject, was born in Essex 
county, N. Y. , served in the War of 1812, and took part in the battle of Plattsburg. 
He was a man of some education, and married Lydia Cole, a daughter of Orrin Cole, 
who was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. To Mr. and Mrs. Phillips were born 
thirteen children, all of whom lived to become men and women. Mr. Phillips was 
a farmer in Essex county, and moved in 1832 to Medina county, Ohio, lived there 
one year, then removed to Chatauqua county, N. Y., remained there two years, and 
then moved, in 1834, to Erie county, Penn., where he bought a farm, and at this 
place his wife died. He lived here until 18-14, when he moved to Medina county, 
Ohio, and resided there upon a farm which he bought, until 1854, when he returned 
to Erie county, Penn., but afterward moved to Adams county. Wis., bought a farm 
and lived upon it until his death, in 1881, at the age of ninety-five years. He was 
always in comfortable circumstances, an honorable, industrious man and a respected 
citizen. Physically he was a very robust man, and his children all inherited his 
strength. Melvin R. , a son of the above, and the subject of the present sketch, was 
born August 17, 1826, in Essex county, N. Y., on his father's farm. He attended 
the best common schools of his day, sometimes in the log school-house of the pio- 
neer, and also in Erie county. He learned the trade of wagon maker in Chatauqua 
county, N. Y., but worked only during the winters, preferring life on the farm dur- 
ing the summers. In 1846, at the age of twenty years, he came to St. Joseph 
county, Ind. , making the journey with a pair of horses, and a wagon which he had 
made with his own hands, and coming with John Peek, who is now living in this town- 
ship. Mr. Phillips followed farm work, and in 1849 he crossed the plains to Cali- 
fornia with the Bristol Company, which was made up from the counties of Elkhart, 
Kosciusko, La Grange, Steuben and St. Joseph, and as it was organized at Bristol, 
Ind., took the name of that place. The company consisted of thirty-nine men, 
fifteen ox wagons, each wagon drawn by three or four yoke of oxen. They left 
Mishawaka, March 17, 1849, and reached the mining district on Bear River, Cal., 
September 30, 1849. They lost three men by cholera on the way, and they were 
buried on the plains. Otherwise they had no severe trouble. Mr. Phillips mined 
in California for two years, also engaged in prospecting, and then returned to St. 
Joseph county by way of the Isthmus of Panama. He married Ruth A. Cook, and 
by her was the father of one child, Jay, who is now married and settled at Cedar 
Rapids, Neb., and has one child. Mr. Phillips engaged in farming, and learned the 
stonemason trade in 1854, working at the trade until 1881. He became a skillful 
mason, and laid the stone work for the Water street bridge in 1857, and was the 
foreman for the stone work for the Mishawaka bridge across the St. Joseph River 
in 1873-4; the Jefferson Street bridge in 1881; the large culvert at the east end of 
Mishawaka in 1875, and the stone work of the mill race, besides many of the best 
foundations in Mishawaka. October 15, 1862, he enlisted in Mishawaka, as a sol- 
dier in the Civil war, for nine months, serving until he was honorably discharged 
February 3, 1863, at Murfreesboro, Tenn. At the battle of Stone River he was 
■wounded, shot in the thumb, and was also struck by a limb which was cut off by a 



370 PICTORIAL AJS'D BIOORAPHICAL 

shell. His company was supporting the Union batteries, and he was lying down 
with the other men when he was struck across the back and so disabled that he was 
taken to the hospital and remained there until bis discharge. Mr. Phillips married, 
in Hillsdale county Mich., February 1, 1859, Louisa Headley, born November 18, 
1842, in Columbiana county, Ohio, a daughter of Reuben and Louisa (Harper) Head- 
ley. Mr. Headley was born in New Jersey, of American parentage, was a farmer 
of Columbiana county, Ohio, and later removed to Steuben county, Ind., where he 
settled on a farm and died in 1860. He was the father of eleven children, who 
lived to grow up, as follows: John, Joseph, Mary, Eeuben, M'heelen, Nancy, Alex- 
ander, Hannah (deceased), Louisa, Sarah and Emma. Mr. Headley lived to be 
seventy-three years of age, and was an industrious, hard working man, respected by 
all. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips are the parents of two children: Frank, born October 
18, 1860, and Myron Reuben, born November 22, 1866. Frank married Effie Owen, 
and is employed on the Lake Shore Railroad, residing in Elkhart. He has three 
children: Florence M., Francis and Charles. Myron R. is a farmer on the home 
farm. He married Carrie Bonner and has one child, Gracie. Politically Mr. Phil- 
lips is a stanch Democrat; socially a member of the Masonic order. He has given 
his children good educational advantages. He stands deservedly high as an honor- 
able citizen, a patriotic defender of his country, and a man of sterling traits of 
character. 

Robert Mtler, county auditor, is one of the most efficient, faithful and pains- 
taking officers St. Joseph county has ever had, and in discharging the functions of 
his office he has shown the utmost courtesy to all with whom he has come in contact, 
and has won innumerable friends. He was born in Henry county, Ind., July 29, 
1832, to James and Olive (Main) Myler, natives respectively of Maryland and New 
York State. At an early day Indiana became their home, and in the county of 
Henry the father successfully tilled the soil until 1836, when he took up his resi- 
dence" in Warren township of St. Joseph county, where he purchased a very slightly 
improved farm and began making his home in a little log cabin that had been erected 
thereon. He died in Buchanan, Mich., leaving four sons and eight daughters. The 
subject of this sketch is the youngest son, and was but four years of age when his 
parents located in this section. Like most farmers' boys he obtained a district 
school education, his attendance being confined to a three months' winter term, 
to which he was compelled to walk three miles. The facilities at that time 
were very poor, the school building was a small log structure, and the arrange- 
ment of the interior was of the most primitive description. When twenty-two 
years of age he left home to make his own way in the world, and as a means of 
livelihood took up farming, an occupation with which he was thoroughly familiar, 
in Warren township, following it until 1860, when he abandoned it to cross the 
plains to the Pacific slope. He visited Pike's Peak, but his efforts as a gold hunter 
were unsuccessful, and at the end of sis months he became discouraged and returned 
home. He purchased a farm in German township, which he still owns, and during 
his residence there he was trustee of the township two terms. In 1870 he moved to 
South Bend and engaged in the manufacture of furniture, which he carried on two 
years, then began devoting his attention to the real estate and insurance business, 
which he successfully conducted for a number of years. Following this for seven 
years he traveled for the Oliver Plow Company. He still owns his farm, consisting 
of 182 acres two and a half miles from South Bend, which is known as Portage 
Point farm. Mr. Myler is a well-known stockman and wheat buyer, and his repu- 
tation throughout the county as a man of affairs is of the very best. He has always 
been interested in politics and was an alternate to the Chicago National Convention 
in 188-1. He has been a delegate to nearly all the county and district conventions, 
and has filled his present office, to which he was elected by the Democratic party in 
1890, with marked ability. Socially he is a member of the A. F. & A. M. In 
1854 he was united in marriage to Miss Phcebe A. Dunn, by whom he has three 
children; William E. , deputy auditor; Nellie A. and R. O. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 371 

Fredrick George Eberhaet, Jr., Mishawaka, Ind. The original pioneer of Penn 
township was Fredrick Gr. Eberhart (see sketch of Adolphus Eberhart). He was 
the father of our subject, who was born in Yates county, N. Y. , March 15, ]835, 
and was one year old when his parents brought him to this county. He received 
the common -school education of his township, attending school during the winters 
and working on the farm during the summers, remaining on the farm at home until 
he was twenty one years of age. In 1857 he went to Rock Island, 111., and remained 
there one summer engaged in breaking prairie, but returned to Penn township in 
1858, and in company with his brothers John and Jacob, went into the lumber busi- 
ness, in which he successfully continued for five years. Following this he engaged 
in farming one and one-half miles northeast of Mishawaka, and bought eighty acres 
of laud, to which, by thrift and industry , he added until he now owns 110 acres, 
upon which he has put good improvements, consisting of a substantial residence, 
commodious barn, and other farm buildings. In 1864 Mr. Eberhart married Boxy 
Vesey, daughter of George and Olive (Graham) Vesey. George Vesey descended 
from the old family of the name, in Vermont, and came to Penn township in 1847, 
buying 160 acres of land which he cleared from the dense woods and made into a 
good home. Both Mr. and Mrs. Vesey were members of the Baptist Church, he 
being a deacon for many years. Politically he was a stanch Republican. He was 
the father of sis children by his first wife: Emily, Anna, William, Lucius, Horace 
and Roxie. Mr. Vesey lived to the age of sixty-seven, and died on his farm in May, 
1887. He was a man of excellent reputation, and was well known throughout St. 
Joseph county for his integrity of character. He was an industrious pioneer citi- 
zen. His wife. Olive Graham, was born in York State, of English descent. Mr. 
and Mrs. Eberhart have had four children: Sabra, born February 1, 1865; George 
F. , born November 8, 1868: Adelbert H. , born November 26, 1873, and died at 
three years of age, and Lucius H. , born April 23, 1876, dying while still an infant. 
All of the children were born in Penn township on the farm. All of the children 
received a good education, and George and Sabra O. attended the high school of 
Mishawaka, froni which the former graduated. Our subject has always been a prac- 
tical farmer and business man, but has held no office. He is a stanch Republican 
in politics, a substantial citizen, owning his farm and also an interest in the Eber- 
hart homestead. Both Mr. and Mrs. Eberhart are members of the Methodist 
Church, in which he is now trustee, and has been class-leader and steward. They 
are now residing in Mishawaka. Sabra O. married George Cook, freight agent at 
Chesterton, Ind., and has one child: Jay W. ; and George F. married Abbie Plum, 
and is a merchant in Osceola. Mr. Eberhart has descended from one of the most 
honorable families in Penn township, and has always been a man above reproach in 
every relation of life. 

Dr. W. a. Piekce, Osceola, Ind. In a comprehensive work of this kind, deal- 
ing with industrial pursuits, sciences, arts and professions, it is only fit and right 
that that profession on which, in some period or other of our lives — the medical 
profession — we are all more or less dependent, should be noticed. It is the preroga- 
tive of the physician to relieve or alleviate the ailments to which suffering humanity 
is heir, and as such he deserves the most grateful consideration of all. A promi- 
nent physician who, by his own ability, has attained distinction in his profession is 
Dr. \V. A. Pierce, who was born in Bennington, Vt., in 1852, and comes of an old 
New England family of English descent. Michael Pierce, sou of Ephraim, came to 
this country from England in 1727 and settled in Massachusetts. Capt. John 
Pierce, of Bedford, Mass., and grandson of Ephraim, served in the Revolutionary 
war, while Isaac, the great-grandson of Ephraim, served in the War of 1812. Amos 
Pierce, the grandfather of Dr. Pierce, became a general merchant of Burlington, 
Va., in 1813, there reared his family and passed from life at the age of eighty years. 
He was the father of Myron A., Charlotte, Sarah and Augusta Pierce. Amos IPierce 
was a successful man of affairs and for some time held the office of justice of the 



373 PICTORIAL AND BIOOliAPIIICAL 

peace. Myron A., bis son and the father of Dr. W. A. Pierce, was born in Burling- 
ton, Vt., and graduated at the Boston University, paying his own way while in this 
institution by teaching school. After sufficient preparation he began practicing 
medicine at White Hall, Vt., and later at Bennington, where he remained six years. 
In 1854 he moved with his family to Morris, 111., having married in the .State of his 
birth Harriet Frost, who bore him six children: William A., Frank F., Frederick 
(who died when in infant), George (who also died young), Harriet G. and Jesse M. 
Dr. Pierce practiced medicine at Morris, 111., for thirty years, and became widely 
and favorably known. He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian Church, 
in which they were very active workers, and socially he was a member of the A. F. 
& A. M. He died January 30, 1885, at the age of sixty-six years. Dr. W. A. 
Pierce may be said to have been brought up in his father's office, for there much of 
his time was spent iu studying his father's medical books and receiving valuable 
instructions from him, not only by precept, but by example. His literary education 
was obtained in the Morris Classical Institute, and his medical education in the 
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, from which he graduated as anM. D. in 1879. 
Soon after this he opened an office at Middlebury, Ind., but at the end of three 
months came to Osceola, since which time he has, by his assiduous attention to his 
patients, acquired a large and steadilv increasing practice, while he has gained the 
confidence of all as a steady, clever and scientific practitioner. He is a practitioner 
of the regular alopathic school, and during the prevalence of la grippe in 1891 he 
kept two drivers and seven horses busy almost day and night in looking after his 
patients. He has full control of the medical practice of his territory, his drives 
extending in all directions from Osceola, a distance of ten miles. He is well known 
as a man of benevolent disposition and for his kindness to the poor, his charges to 
them being most reasonable. He stands deservedly high, not only in his profession, 
but as a gentleman and an honored citizen. He is a member of the St. Joseph 
County Medical Society, and politically is a Repulilican. March 15, 1881, he mar- 
ried Louisa White, daughter of William and Elmira (Belden) Bancroft, the former 
of whom was one of the founders of Osceola. Dr. and Mrs. Pierce have two chil- 
dren: Harriet E. and Chauncey M. 

Harry Boyd Snee, M. D. The medical profession in South Bend is represented 
by a number of skillful practitioners, who have an extended knowledge of therapeutics, 
skill in their use and enviable reputations as physicians of ability. Prominent 
among them is Dr. Snee, who is a graduate of the noted Rush Medical College, of 
Chicago, being a member of the class of 1888-9. He was born in the city of New 
York, March 22, 1869, a son of Philip Boyd Snee, who was a native of Yorkshire, 
England, where his birth occurred in 1847. In 1804 he crossed the "pond" to the 
United States to seek his fortune and settled in the city of New York, where he fol- 
lowed his occupation, that of importer of woolen goods, having been identified with 
their manufacture in his native land. He was called from life in 1871, having lived 
a useful and upright life. His wife, whose maiden name was Jane Magian, was 
born in Toronto, Canada, in 1849, and is now a resident of the city of Chicago. 
From 1876 until 1882 Dr. Harry Boyd Snee was an attendant of the well-known 
Notre Dame University, but from 1882 until 1886 he attended high school in Chi- 
cago, and also received instruction from private tutors. From February, 1889, until 
June of the same year and immediately after graduating from Hush Medical 
College, he was surgeon for the Milwaukee, Lake Shore & Western Railroad, with 
headquarters at Hurley and Rhinelander, Wis. In June, 1889, he went to Europe 
for the purpose of perfecting himself in his profession, and for a period of two years 
he pursued his medical researches in Heidelberg, Freidburg, Munich, Vienna and 
Berlin Universities, making a special study of the throat, nose and ear. He returned 
to the United States in the summer of 1891 and opened an office in South Bend, 
Ind., where he has remained ever since and built up a paying patronage, through 
sheer force of native ability. He has been very successful in his treatment of his 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 373 

patients, who repose in him the most unlimited confidence, and even those who 
employ older physicians in cases of sickness in their families, can not fail to remark 
his wonderful cures and acknowledge his ability. Although young in years he has 
already attained a prominence which many older physicians would gladly have, and 
the future promises for him a success of conquests. He is a member of the Turner's 
Society and socially belongs to the B. P. O. E. Lodge, No. 235. 

Zelotes Bancroft is one of the founders of the town of Osceola and is now its 
oldest resident. His grandfather, Isaac Bancroft, was born in Massachusetts and 
was a direct descendant of one of the Pilgrim fathers. Three brothers of the 
name came from England and settled in the Bay State and were among the 
founders of the Plymouth colony. Isaac Bancroft was a farmer of Granville, 
Mass. , was an industrious and likely citizen and became possessed of a competence. 
He lived to be an old man and died a member of the Baptist Church, in which faith 
he reared his children, their names being as follows: Lemuel, Zelotes, William, 
Charles, Alma and Ruth by a first wife, and Jacob, Harry and Hannah by a second 
wife. His son William was born at his father's farm at Granville, received a 
common- school education and when old enough began learning the ship-carpenter's 
and millwright's trades in the shipyards of Boston. His brother Lemuel having 
settled in Wyoming county, N. Y., he joined him in 1826 and was married there 
December 24, 1828, to Emeline, daughter of William and Hannah ( Westcot) Belden, 
soon after which he began working at the wagon and carriage maker's trade and was 
also engaged in the lumber business. His union resulted in the birth of the follow- 
ing children: Laura, who died in infancy in New York; Zelotes; Alma, born in New 
York State; Euth, born in St. Joseph county, Ind. ; Emeline and Louisa. In 1837 
Mr. Bancroft came to St. Joseph county, Ind., his brother Zelotes having been the 
first of the family to settle here, and the latter assisted in organizing the county and 
in building the first mill-dam across the St. Joseph River at Mishawaka. He was a 
prominent man and at one time wealthy. Among his business enterprises was the 
purchase of the original saw-mill on the creek at Osceola and a tract of 160 acres of 
land, after which he sent for his brother William to come and take charge of the mill, 
which he did and successfully operated it for some years. After the death of his 
brother, which occurred at Mishawaka, William bought the mill property, greatly 
improved it aud with the assistance of his son Zelotes. he built a grist and flouring- 
mill in 1856, and had nearly 300 acres of land, on a part of which Osceola is now built. 
In this business he became wealthy and left a handsome property. He was a Baptist 
in religious belief, was first a Democrat, but assisted in organizing the Republican 
party in his section, after which he was one of its stanch supporters, and being 
very much opposed to secret organizations, he was not a member of any society. He 
was a good business man, a practical worker, and being quite ingenious he invented 
a water-wheel of much merit. He was very upright and honorable, was decidedly 
progressive and was one of the founders of the free-school system in his township, 
and together with a Methodist preacher of the name of Getchell, he built the first 
school-house in his part of the township, he furnishing the lumber and Mr. Getchell 
building the house. Mr. Bancroft hired the teacher and paid her without the 
assistance of others, the school being free for all. He also assisted in building the 
Methodist Church, and his many deeds of unselfishness and interest in the welfare 
of his section won him the regard of all who knew him. He was a very strong 
Union man during the war. Zelotes Bancroft was bom at Castile, Wyoming county, 
N. Y. , October 23, 1830, but has been a resident of Penn township, this county, ever 
since he was six years of age. He received his education in a log school-house one 
and one-half miles south of Osceola, which was a very primitive structure, heated by 
an immense fireplace holding logs eight feet long, which were hauled to the school- 
house by horses. Mr. Bancroft attended this school three months, which was 
taught by an old Kentuckian who allowed the children to run out and in the school- 
house at their will. He would go to the school house door and shout "All you that 



374 PICTORIAL yWD BIOGUAPHICAL 

haint sayed, come in and say," and the boy who reached the door first read first. 
After this Mr. Bancroft attended school in the house built by his father, the teacher 
being a Miss Broodwick, who afterward married John Davenport of Elkhart. He 
continued to attend this school daring the winter seasons until he was twenty years 
old, and being quick and intelligent, usually stood at the head of his classes. He 
worked in his father's saw-mill and afterward on the Lake Shore Railroad for two 
years. In 1856 he assisted his father to build the mill above mentioned, which 
building is still standing although it has been remodeled. He has since been the 
very efficient manager of this mill. For some years he ran a store in Osceola, 
assisted by his wife, whom he married June 1, 1863, her maiden name being Sarah 
E. Masters, born December 11, 1844, a daughter of Austin M. and Jane A. 
(Elmondorf) Masters, who were of Dutch stock and natives of Kingston, N. Y. 
Peter Masters, the grandfather of Mrs. Bancroft, was in the War of 1812, and lived 
to be nearly ninety years of age, at which time he was the oldest Odd Fellow in the 
United States, being a charter member of Kingston Lodge, New York. He was a 
very successful blacksmith and owned a shop with five forges. He was also in the 
stone quarry business. His son James learned the miller's trade of Mr. Bancroft. 
To the latter and his wife seven children have been born: William, who died at the 
age of five years; Archie, who died when one and a half years old; Graeie, who died in 
infancy; Zelia; Jennie; George and another child who died in infancy. Mr. Bancroft 
lived with his father and mother until their respective deaths. He and his wife are 
members of the Methodist Chxirch and he has taken an active interest in Sunday- 
school work, and is now teacher of the Bible class. He is a Republican and as an 
honorable, upright man stands high in the community in which he resides. 

Charles W. Jaqdith. Prominent among the successful business men of Nap- 
panee, Ind., is Mr. Charles W. Jaquith, dealer in farming implements and field 
seeds. He owes his nativity to St. Joseph county, Ind., born on a farm in Madison 
township. May 6, 1839. He is a son of Henry and Lucy (Tallman) Jaquith and the 
grandson of Reuben and Mary Jaquith, both of English descent. Henry W. Jaquith 
was a native Vermouter, born March 10, 1806, and there made his home until ten 
years of age, when he came with his parents to southern Indiana. This was in 1816, 
and in 1827 he married Miss Lucy Tallman. Nine years later, or in 1836, he moved 
to St. Joseph county. Ind., settled on a farm in Madison township, and there resided 
for sixteen years. From there he moved to Sumption's Prairie, resided there for 
twelve years, and then for ten years was a resident of South Bend, where his death 
occurred in October, 1876, when sixty-nine years and seven months old. He was a 
cooper by trade and that was his principal occupation in life. In his religious views 
Mr. Jaquith was connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church, joining the same 
in 1840, and has always lived an upright, honorable life. Until the last year of his 
life he held office in his church, and was ever one of its leading members. Honora- 
ble and upright in all his relations he was loved and esteemed by all who knew him, 
and his death caused univer.sal sorrow, for all felt the loss to be sustained by the 
departure of such a man. He was a good man in every sense of the word, and his 
memory will live in the hearts of the people long after his body has moldered to 
dust. He died in the faith of a glorious hereafter, and was at peace with God and 
man. His wife died at her home in South Bend, from general debility, vfhen sev- 
enty-nine years of age. She was born in Canada, June 21, 1809, and the last years 
of her life were spent in South Bend. She was a faithful member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and a woman widely and favorably known for her many excellent 
qualities. Eleven children were born to this worthy couple, four of whom are still 
living: Andrew J. ; Albert D.; Julia A., who died in 1887; Permelia D., died in 1873; 
Nathaniel T. E. ; Charles W. ; Lucy Emaline, died in 1873; Dr. Franklin, died in 
1878; an infant, died unnamed; Luciuda, died in 1869, and George, died young. 
The father of these children was a Democrat in earlj' life but later became a Repub- 
lican, and continued a member of that party until his death. Charles W. Jaquith 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 375 

was reared oa his father's farm. After reaching mature years he married Miss Julia 
F. Crocker, who was born in 1840, and who was the daughter of Ezra and Julia 
(Curtis) Crocker. Mr. Crocker was born in Vermont, March 9, 1806, and his wife in 
Connecticut, November 25, 1803. They were married in the State of Ohio, April 8, 
1828, and the following children were born to them: Samuel, Sarah, Andrew J., 
Ezra T., Mary A., Julia F. aud Orris J. Simpson, a son by a later marriage. Mrs. 
Jaquith's maternal great-grandfather, Ethan Curtis, married Miss Elizabeth Warner 
in Connecticut, in January, 1778, aud thirteen children were born to them: Lydia, 
Samuel, Sarah, Ethan, Chancey, Betsy, Eunice, Ada, John, Joel, Catherine, AYillis 
aud William. The son Samuel, grandfather of Mrs. Jaquith, married Mary A. 
Churchill in the State of Massachusetts, January 8, 1802, and twelve children were 
born to them: Julia, Caroline, Andrew, Eliza, Eunice, Churchill, Lucy, Crosby, 
Eebecca, Chancey, Moses and Mary. Mary A. Churchill's parents, Moses aud Mol- 
lie (Crosby) Churchill, were married in Massachusetts in March, 1785, and eight 
children were born to them: Mary A., Betsy, Moses, Lucy, Polly, Samuel, Rebecca 
and Major. Mrs. Jaquith's paternal grandfather, Josiah Crocker, married Miss 
Sarah Toby in Massachusetts, in 1788, and later moved to Vermont, where nine chil- 
dren were born: Benjamin, James, Thomas. Sarah, John, Timothy, Ezra, Betsy and 
Eliza. Mr. and Mrs. Jaquith's nuptials were celebrated May 26, 1864, and two 
children have blessed this union: Minnie B. and M. Leroy. The former was born 
June 28, 1869, and was married to C. M. Curtis September 17, 1888. On Decem- 
ber, 17, 1889, a son was born to them, whom they called Jaquith G. Curtis. M. Leroy 
is at home aud in business with his father. Previous to locating in Nappanee Mr. 
Jaquith was engaged in farming in St. Joseph county, this State, and he also worked 
at the carpenter's trade. He was at one time the owner of a saw-mill. He now owns 
a good farm in St. Joseph county, aud is a man of good business habits. In poli- 
tics he is a Democrat. 

William Henry Harrison, the ninth President of the United States and first 
governor of the Territory of Indiana, was a native of the Old Dominion, his birth 
occurring at Berkeley, in 1773. His father was Gov. Benjamin Harrison, one of 
the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Eeeeiving the final part of his 
schooling at Hampden, Sidney College, he began for himself at eighteen years of 
age, at which time occurred the death of his father. In opposition to the protests 
of his friends, he sought a position in the army of the United States, was commis- 
sioned ensign by General Washington and ordered to report to the commanding 
general (St. Clair) of the Northwestern Army. At this period the frontier was 
greatly harrassed by depredations of marauding bands of savages, supplemented 
by covert support and aid of the British Government, and the duties of the.frontier 
troops were to hold in check and keep within due bounds these attacks. The eleva- 
tion of Gen. Anthony Wayne over General St. Clair, in the command of the North- 
west, resulted in a more vigorous aud active policy and numerous battles were fought 
with varying success. Having obtained promotion to a lieutenancy, young Harrison 
was the hero in a bloody engagement August 20, 1792, and for this he was publicly 
thanked by his superior officer. In 1795 he was made commander of Fort Wash- 
ington, with the rank of captain; the same year he wedded the youngest daughterof 
John Cleves Symmes, the original owner of the present site of Cincinnati, and three 
years later resigned his commission to engage in farming. Very shortly after tender- 
ing his resignation he was appointed secretary of the Northwest Territory by Pres- 
ident Adams, and as such was ex-officio lieutenant-governor, and in the absence of 
General St. Clair was governor. In 1799 he was elected a delegate to Congress, and 
during this session the Northwest Territory was divided into two Territories, named 
Ohio and Indiana. The latter comprised the present States of Indiana, Illinois, 
Iowa, Wisconsin and Michigan, and of this Mr. Harrison received the appointment 
of governor. He immediately located at Vincennes, which was then the capital, and 
served as governor sixteen years, having been twice re appointed by Jefferson and 



876 PICTORIAL AND BIOGUAPHICAL 

once by Madison. His influence witb the Indians was greater than any other white 
man. He alway.s kept strict faith with these children of Nature, was prompt to 
reward their good deeds and as decisive in punishing their treachery. During his 
administration he commanded at the battle of Tippecanoe, and the good results 
achieved by the success of the whites was made an event by the Legislatures of both 
Indiana and Kentucky extending the hero of the day a vote of thanks. Governor 
Harrison is given a prominent place by historians for his services during the War of 
1812. He was a participant in the defense of Fort Meigs and the Itattle of the 
Thames, as well as being the commander of the Army of the Northwest, with the 
rank of major-general. In 1816 he was elected to Congress and in 1824 to the United 
States Senate, from Ohio, and in 1828 was appointed minister to the Republic of 
Colombia by President Adams, but was almost immediately recalled by General 
Jackson. In 1836 he was nominated for the presidency of the United States, but 
suifered defeat. In 1840 he was re-nominated by the Whigs and during one of the 
most remarkable campaigns this country ever experienced, was elected, and March 
4, 1841, was inaugurated. Having spent the most of his life on the frontier, Mr. 
Harrison lacked the polish of his opponent, and the story was circulated by the Dem- 
ocrats, with the expectation that it would prove detrimental to him, that he lived in 
a log cabin and drank nothing but cider. The Whigs accepted the insinuation. The 
simpleness of the human life, divested of glamors and gildings, always appeals to 
the direct sensibilities of the people. So it did in this case. Log cabins were erected 
everywhere: kegs, supposed to contain cider, were indispensable. Log cabin and 
hard cider songs were sung and are yet remembered by the old residenters, and the 
famous hero of Tippecanoe became the ninth President of the United States. His 
untimely death occurred one mouth after his triumphal inauguration. 

Rev. Thomas C. Walsh, C. S. C, Notre Dame College, is a native of Montreal, 
Canada, his birth occurring May 15, 1853, his father being Thomas E. Walsh, a 
well-known and successful business man of Detroit, who died in that city in 1891. 
The subject of this sketch was one of eight children, and when fourteen years of 
age he entered the College of St. Lawrence, Montreal, in which well-known institu- 
tion he completed his education in 1872. From there he went to Paris, France, 
where he entered Ste. Croix College, in which he remained until 1875. From that 
place he came to Notre Dame the same year and entered upon his duties as professor 
of classics, which position he occupied with ability for two years. In 1877 he was 
ordained and made vice-president of the institution, and in 1881 became president, 
which position he is still acceptably filling. He has proved himself to be the "right 
man in the right place," and no more sufficient testimony is needed to prove his 
worth and ability than the present high position which he occupies. 

Eli O. Newman is one of the energetic and enterprising citizens of Mishawaka, 
and comes of sterling English and Irish stock, his early ancestors coming to this 
country and settling at Lynn, Mass. David Newman, the great-grandfather, was a 
soldier of the Revolution and was born at that place, and after his marriage became 
the father of the following children: John, Thomas, Sarah, Clarissa, Nancy and 
Eli. The latter, our subject's grandfather, was a soldier in the War of 1812. 
Thomas, his son, was also born at Lynn, and was a shoemaker by trade; he mar- 
ried Miss Fannie Weeks and eight children were born to them: Samuel, James, 
Alexander, David, Mary, Sarah, Eli O. and Benjamin, who was killed in the Civil 
war, while serving in an Ohio regiment. Thomas Newman settled in Tuscarawas 
county, Ohio, at an early day and died near New Philadelphia at the age of forty- 
five years, having been an industrious, hard-working man of strictly honorable 
character and correct morals. Eli O. Newman, his son, owes his nativity to Tuscar- 
awas county, Ohio, where he was born August 19, 1839, but when a very small 
child he was left an orphan by the death of his parents and was brought up by his 
uncle, John Low, of Columbiana, Ohio, with whom he made his home until he waa 
sixteen years of age. He then came to Indiana and worked for his brother, David, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 377 

until he was about twenty years of age at which time he began laboring in a saw- 
mill. On September 9, 1861, he cast aside personal considerations and enlisted in 
the Union service to tight his country's battles, becoming a member of Company I, 
Ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until October 
17, 1865, when he was honorably discharged at Camp Stanley in Texas. He was in 
the engagement at Greenbriar, W. Va., October 3, 1861, the siege of Corinth, 
Perryville, a skirmish at Danville, besides many other minor skirmishes in Kentucky, 
and at the battle of Stone Eiver he was slightly wounded by the Union artillery. 
He was in skirmishes at Woodbury and Readyville, Tenn., and at the latter place 
was promoted to corporal and detailed assistant color bearer, carrying the stars and 
stripes the most of the time. At Ready ville, Tenn., he had charge of eleven men who 
engaged one hundred rebel cavalry in a skirmish. He was also at Chickamauga, and 
Lookout Mountain, his regiment making a charge up the mountain in the face of a 
severe fire, and fought above the clouds. The next day they fought at Mission 
Ridge and here his regiment captured 2U0 rebel prisoners. They were then 
detailed to bury the dead after the battle of Chattanooga, after which they 
went to Whitesides, Tenn., and re-enlisted as veterans, Mr. Newman being the first 
man in his regiment to re-enlist. He came home on a thirty-day veteran's fur- 
lough, then reported to Gen. O. O. Howard, and was in the Atlanta campaign, tak- 
ing part in the engagements at Rocky Face Ridge, Dalton, Resaca, Kingston, 
Dallas, Pine Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Rough Station, Peach Tree Creek, 
siege of Atlanta, Jouesboro, Lovejoy Station, Columbia, Tenn., Franklin, NashviUe, 
besides many skirmishes more or less severe. His regiment was under fire for 
nearly four months at Atlanta. He was in the hospital at Louisville for about one 
month and was home on furlough one month, and with these exceptions he was on 
duty with his regiment and in active service until his discharge. His duties as 
color-bearer were very dangerous and arduous and one of the standards of colors 
was a silk flag presented to the regiment by General Nelson, of Kentucky. At the 
battle of Lovejoy Station a bullet passed through his flag, and almost the same 
thing happened at Resaca. At the battle of Stone River one of the color-bearers 
was shot and the most of the others were wounded. Mr. Newman was a brave 
and faithful soldier and did efficient service for his country on many a bloody battle- 
field. On April 27, 1862, while at home on furlough he married Caroline, daughter 
of Nelson and Betsy (Hoard) Moon, Mr. Moon having been born in the State of 
New York, and was one of the early settlers of Penn township, this county, where 
he and his wife reared the following children: Maria, William, Caroline, Sarah, 
Martha A., Emma and Nelson. Mr. and Mrs. Newman have raised five children; 
Clara A., Howard W., Anna H., Julius A. and Clover A. After his return from 
the army Mr. Newman settled down to farming and by energy and good judgment 
has become the owner of a fine farm of one hundred acres. He and his wife are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for many years he has been a 
stanch Republican politically, but at the present time is a Prohibitionist. He 
has given his children excellent educational advantages, and they all have been 
attendants at the Northern Indiana Normal College at Valparaiso and are now very 
successful teachers of St. Joseph county, with the exception of Clover, who is still 
attending school. As a citizen Mr. Newman has always been enterprising, indus- 
trious and honest, is a practical and shrewd farmer, a kind husband and father and 
is a man of naturally fine mind, which has been strengthened and enriched by 
much reading, by observation and contact with the business affairs of life. 

Mother Mary of St. Angela. Eliza Marie Gillespie was the eldest daughter of 
John M. and Mary (Myers) Gillespie, and was born in Brownsville, Penn., February 
21, 1824. Her parents were remarkable for their deep piety and abiding faith, and 
these noble qualities were inherited by their children to the fullest extent. The 
head of the house was called from life when his three children, Eliza Maria, Mary 
(Mrs. P. B. Ewiug), and Neal Henry (the late Rev. Father Gillespie, C. S. C, of Notre 



378 PICTORIAL AJSfD BIOOBAPHICAL 

Dame), were quite young, and with their mother the family removed to Lancaster, 
Ohio. Soon after Eliza Maria was placed at school with the Dominican Sisters at 
Somerset, Perry Co. , Ohio, and some years afterward she was sent to Georgetown 
Convent, where, with the Visitandines, she became a great favorite on account of 
her talents and brilliant qualities. She in time finished her studies, bearing off the 
highest honors in the gift of that institution. Tenderness for the sick and the 
afliicted seemed to be an iuborn trait with her and as years advanced it developed in 
a remarkable degree. When the news of the famine in Ireland reached her ears, 
she resorted to many expedients to obtain aid for the sufferers, and succeeded in col- 
lecting no mean sura of money to forward to the sufferers, through the agency of her 
needle and pen, writing a magazine story in connection with Miss Ellen Ewing, 
now the widow of Gen. Sherman. When the Asiatic cholera broke out everywhere 
in the United States in IS-tQ, instead of shrinking at its approach. Miss Gillespie did 
not hesitate to attend and nurse the sick and dying who had been deserted out of fear 
of the fatal disease. The year 1853 marked the date of her entrance into the Con- 
gregation of the Holy Cross, and thenceforward she was known by the name now so 
familiar to the religious and educational world — "Mother Angela. " Directly after 
her reception of the holy habit, which was on the Feast of the Patronage of St. 
Joseph, 1853, she sailed for Europe, made her novitiate in France, and on the 
Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the same year took the vows of religious 
profession at the hands of Very Rev. Father Moreau, the founder of the Congre- 
gation of the Holy Cross. In January, 1855, she returned to America and was made 
superior of the Academy of St. Mary's, Bertrand, Mich. This school, which had 
been doing good service for eight years, now took a decided step in advance. In 
the following summer the Sisters were transferred from Bertrand to the present site 
of St. Mary's, and the academy was chartered, the foundation of the present Con- 
servatory of Music was laid, the art department was fairly started, in fact, the 
future of St. Mary's was established on a firm foundation, and all chiefly owing to 
the liberal, intelligent and indefatigable exertions, to the executive ability, to the 
quick comprehension and tact to make the best use of circumstances, and last, 
though not least of all, to the earnest faith of Mother Angela. To Mother Angela 
there was nothing ignoble in the most common offices, the meanest labor when done 
for God. Although St. Mary's was destined to weather many fierce storms for ex- 
istence, especially during its early days, the faith and persistent efforts of the little 
society brought it safely through. Under Mother Angela's notable co-operation 
with Father Sorin's designs, foundations were established in various parts of the 
Union, so that it is not exaggeration to say that at the present time her influence is 
felt from ocean to ocean, from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico, in the schools 
which have been established by the Sisters of the Holy Cross, and through the 
method of education adopted and perfected under her wise superintendence. The 
best minds of the day recognize the fact that Mother Angela's enterprise was in the 
right direction, and they reposed the greatest confidence in her judgment and 
opinions. The high standard which she held up to her teachers, the conscientious 
motives which actuated her in her determination to render the schools of the Holy 
Cross the very best in the land, the avidity with which she laid hold of every means to 
exalt and perfect the system of education employed, exerted a mighty influence, not 
only upon the Congregation of the Holy Cross, but outside of the community. It 
gave an impetus to the very best in the educational world. During the Civil war 
Mother Angela took her band of devoted Sisters into the midst of carnage and deso- 
lation of the border States where the fierce contest was at its height, to prepare 
food for the sick, and they were obliged to rise very early and cook their gruel for 
1,400 patients before " roll call. " A volume could be filled with the most interest- 
ing details, but suffice it to say that they not only rendered physical aid but also at- 
tended to the spiritual wants of unnumbered souls in their dying hour. Directly or 
indirectly through Mother Angela's energetic fervor, outside institutions were 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAHA. 379 

established at the following places: Baltimore, Md. ; Michigan City, Ind. ; Morris, 
111. ; Washington, D. C. ; Rensselaer, Ind. ; Logansport, lud. ; South Bend, Ind. ; La 
Porte, Ind. ; Allen county, lud. ; Plymouth, Ind. ; Crawfordsville, Ind. ; Alexandria, 
Va. ; Austin, Tex.; Cairo, 111.; Salt Lake City, Utah; Watertown, Wis.; Lancaster, 
Penn. ; Ogden, Utah; Union City, Ind.; Anderson, Ind. ; Marshall, Tex. ; Goshen, 
Ind.; Elkhart, Ind.; Park City, Utah; Deadwood, Dak.; Mt. Carmel and Columbus, 
Ohio. More than one institution was established in a number of these cities. In 
the summer 1886 Mother Angela went to take possession of St. Mary's of the Holy 
Rosary, at Woodland, Cal., but the foregoing list is but a small index of the grand 
volume of her life-work and does little more than point to a lifetime of incredible 
zeal and charity. After the war Mother Angela was called upon to assist Very 
Rev. Edward Sorin in the publication of the Ave Maria, of which he was the 
founder. The success of the establishment of St. Mary's Academy at Salt Lake 
City, where they were long compelled to remain under the protection of the Govern- 
ment, is one of the strongest proofs of Mother Angela's sagacity, and of her broad, 
heroic charity. Instances of these qualities might be found in nearly every school 
she established. At St. Mary's, however, every object is alive with her impress, 
especially in the musical and art departments. Although she is passed from life, 
she still lives in those who were educated at St. Mary's. The following is quoted 
from one of her former pupils: "The papers say many beautiful and glorious 
things of dear Mother Angela's brilliant talents and useful career, but we know her 
deeply religious character. Her self-sacrifice, her pure intention and zeal for the 
glory of God are better before the throne of God than all the praises the world can 
possibly bestow. " 

John S. Ernst is one of the leading farmers of Penn township, St. Joseph Co., 
Ind., and has followed this calling from his earliest boyhood, being initiated into its 
mysteries by his father, Martin Ernst, who was born at Baden Baden, Germany, 
where he was married to Justina Scholer, who was also a native of Baden Baden. 
They came to America in search of a fortune in 1833 and settled on a farm near 
Rochester, N. Y. , where they resided eight years, then moved to Superior county, 
Canada, where nineteen years were spent on a farm of 100 acres. In 1865 they 
decided to remove to the States and they accordingly bought 160 acres of land 
about three miles south of Mishawaka, on which the father lived until his career was 
closed by death in 1867, when fifty-four years of age. He was a man of great in- 
dustry and, like all his countrymen, was prudent and economical and strictly hon- 
orable in all his business transactions; in fact, was a model German-American citi- 
zen. He and his wife were devout Catholics and in this belief they reared their 
five children: John S.; Joseph; Elizabeth; Madeline, who died a married woman; 
and Ludwig, who died at the age of six years. John S. Ernst was born near Roch- 
ester, N. Y. , February 14, 1835, and was about six years of age when he went with his 
parents to Canada. He received a practical education in both German and English in 
the Dominion. He also came to St. Joseph county in 1865, and after the death of 
his father he settled on half of the homestead, which he farmed with excellent re- 
sults for nineteen years, but since 1882 has resided on his present farm of 155 acres, 
which is nicely improved and for which he paid $12,400. His prosperity is due to 
hard work and thrift, and being public spirited and strictly honorable he is with 
reason considered one of the substantial and responsible citizens of the county. He 
is a thoroughly practical farmer and is in every way worthy the respect that is ac- 
corded him, for he is in every sense of the world self-made and his word is consid- 
ered as good as his bond. January 20, 1867, he was married to Magdalina, daugh- 
ter of Jacob and Mary (Bucheit) Bucheit, and the fruits of their union were nine 
children: Mary, Justina, Rosa, Leo, Matilda, Frank, John (who died in infancy), 
August and Isabelle, all of whom have received educational advantages and made 
the most of their opportunities. He and his wife are worthy members of the Catho- 
lic Church, and it may with truth be said that such citizens are a direct benefit to 



880 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

the community, for by their industry and good habits they assist in developing the 
country and rear honorable families. 

JosEPHEUS Neff, a member of the Nappanee Implement Company, was born 
December 30, 1861, on his father's farm in Jackson township, this county, and like 
most country boj's he attended the district school in winter and assisted his father 
with the farm work during the summer months. He continued under the parental 
roof until of age, when he started out to fight his own way in life. He first settled 
on a farm in JefFersou township, Kosciusko county, improved this farm in every way 
and subsequently sold to advantage and moved to Nappanee in 1890. Until the 
spring of 1891 he was with Paxton Bros., general implement dealers, and he then 
formed a partnership with Mr. French. During the summer and fall of the same 
year he and his partner built a large double store and salesroom, which they stocked 
with all the latest and most improved farm machinery and hardware. They are 
honorable, conscientious business men and have ah'eady built up a large trade in 
their line. Mr. Neff is a practical and experienced man, thoroughly conversant 
■with every detail of his business, and is highly esteemed throughout mercantile cir- 
cles for his many exemplary traits of character, promptness and reliability. He was the 
only child born to John and Anna (Lisle) Neff, the former a native of Ohio and the 
latter of Elkhart county, Ind. John Neff was the son of Henry Neff, who came to 
Indiana at an early day, being among the pioneer settlers of Elkhart county. The 
mother of our subject was a daughter of John Lisle, also a pioneer of this county. She 
was one of three children by her father's first marriage, and her In-others were 
Josepheus, deceased, and Josiah living in Iowa. Her father married the second time 
and by this union became the father of sis children. Our subject was but six months 
old when he was left motherless and his father was married the second time to Miss 
Elizabeth Geyer and reared six sons and three daughters: Calvin, Levi, Alpheus, 
Eollo, Loydand Burton, and Ida, Emma and Nettie. Both Mr. and Mrs. Neff are 
living and have a good farm in Jackson township, this county. Josepheus Neff's 
marriage with Miss Katie Smith, who was born in 1862, was solemnized in 1883, 
and one bright little child has blessed this union, Gracie, ^vhose birth occurred July 
22, 1888. Sirs. Neff's parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Fischer) Smith, were natives 
of Pennsylvania and Canada, respectively, and early pioneers of Elkhart county. 
Both are now deceased. They were the parents of eight children, four sons and 
foixr daughters: Samuel, John, Frank, Jesse, Susan, Ludia, Kate and Ella. The 
latter married George Whitehead and died at the age of twenty three years. The 
remainder of the children are living, the boys on farms in Jackson township and the 
girls all married and living not far from the old home. Mr. Neff is one of the push- 
ing, energetic young business men of Nappanee and is quite a favorite in business 
and social circles. In politics he is a Democrat. 

E. W. KiGER, Osceola, Ind. Our subject is one of the old settlers of St. Joseph 
county, Ind., of German-English descent. His great-grandfather, Peter Kiger, 
was a native of Pennsylvania, married and had the following family: Peggy, Mary, 
Jesse, Henry, Jacob and Peter. The occupation of Mr. Kiger was farming, and his 
death occurred in the Keystone State. Peter Kiger, Jr., son of the above and the 
grandfather of our subject, was born in Lancaster county, Pa., married there Cath- 
erine Farce, daughter of William Farce, who belonged to the same family as the 
Wilberforce family. Peter Kiger and wife were the parents of fourteen children, 
as follows: Sarah, who died when a young woman; Jacob, who died when a young 
man; W'illiam, who died when an infant; Henry, Jesse P., Peter, Ebeueezer, Abra- 
ham, James, Eliza, Katie A., Hannah (deceased), Jane and Minerva. Peter Kiger 
left Pennsylvania and settled at Cadiz, Ohio, where he remained some years and 
then moved to Wayne county, Ohio, where he bought 160 acres of laud, for which 
he paid $480. He settled in the woods before any one else had come there, cleared 
up a good farm, made improvements, passed there the remainder of his days and 
died in 1850, seventy-six years of age. Both Mr. and Mrs. Kiger were members 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 383 

of the Methodist Church, and Mr. Kiger was a substantial pioneer farmer and 
at his death left one of the best farms in Wayne county. He was a hard working 
and upright citizen, respected by all. Abraham Kiger, father of our subject, was 
born October 6, 1825, in Wayne county. He received the pioneer education of 
those days, in an old log school-house, with split logs for benches, and the reading 
books for the pupils were the New Testament and the Columbian Orator. He 
attended school during the winter season for several years, and thus learned a com- 
mon-school education. He learned to work on the farm, and thus grew to manhood, 
and February 29, 1849, he married Caroline Hoffheimer, daughter of John and 
Mary Hoffheimer, of a Pennsylvania-German family, who were olcl settlers of Medina 
county, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Kiger were boin sis children: Julian, who died 
the age of eleven years; Malinda, who died after marriage; Marcellus, who died at 
the age of seven years; Mary E., who died at the age of two years; Ephraim, who 
died an infant; and Ephraim W. Mr. Kiger remained on the home farm until after 
the death of his parents, in 1852, coming to St. Joseph county and settling north- 
west of South Bend, where he lived for two years on the St. Joseph River, four miles 
from South Bend. Then he bought eighty acres next to the Portage Chapel, cleared 
up this farm from the wilderness and liought six acres more. In 1863 he moved to 
Berrian county, Mich., lived there two years and then returned to St. Joseph county 
and lived for six years, one mile east of Mishawiika, and then lived for twelve years 
three miles south of 0.sceola. In 1863 he bought ninety acres of land which con- 
stituted his present farm, and on this he has made good improvements. Mrs. Kiger 
died June 12, 1891, a devout member of the Methodist Church, of which Mr. Kiger 
is also a member, and in which he has been a class-leader for fifteen years. Mr. Kiger 
has always been a man of active mind, and until the formation of the Greenback 
party had always voted the Democratic ticket. In later years he has voted the 
Prohibition ticket. He has passed a life of industry and reaps the reward, possess- 
ing a good farm and residence, is in comfortable circumstances; stands deservedly 
high as an honorable citizen, and is a vigorous and line example of an American 
pioneer farmer. Ephraim W. , son of the above, and our subject, was born July 15, 
1856, on his father's farm north of South Bend, was reared a farmer and received 
the common-school education of the district. Later he supplemented this with a 
season at the Normal School at Valparaiso, Ind. , taught school in this county for 
three terms and then engaged in farming and in the agricultural implement business 
in connection with it. Now our subject is engaged in the breeding and raising of fast 
horses, owning at the present time two of the fastest horses in St. Joseph county, 
one of which, the stallion, '' S. W. Bennett," son of "Pilot Medium," is a standard- 
bred trotting horse, and is the fastest stallion in St. Joseph county, having a record 
of 2:23^ on a half-mile track. His mare, "Betty K.," standard and registered, 
with a record of 2:26^ on a mile track, is another fine animal. Mr. Kiger is now 
devoting his attention to the horse business, which he intends to develop. He is a 
man of education, great intelligence and excellent business ability, and as his per- 
sonal habits are above reproach, never having indulged in either beer, whisky or 
tobacco, he is worthy to be considered one of the best citizens of this fine old county. 
Although he votes the Democratic ticket, he takes but little interest in local politics. 
On April 8. 1877, he married Olive Teel, daughter of Simeon and Mary (Nossinger) 
Teel. Simeon Teel was born in Union county, Ohio, March 13, 1820. His grand- 
father came from Germany to England, thence to America and settled in Lancaster 
county, Penn. He had three sons, Adam, Alexander and Benjamin, one of whom 
became the father of Simeon. The grandfather took part in the Revolutionary war. 
Simeon married Mary Hoffsinger, daughter of Joseph and grand- daughter of Andrew 
Hoffsinger, who was the first settler in Elkhart county, in 1825. The Teel family 
was as follows: Nancy J., Annetta A., Laura A., Emma, Mary O. , William M. , Ella 
N. and Edith A. Mr. Teel settled in Elkhart county, Ind., there became a promi- 
nent farmer and died March 6, 1888. Both Mr. and Mrs. Teel were members of 



384 PICTORIAL AND BIOGHAPHICAL 

the United Brethren Church. Mr. and Mrs. Kiger have one daughter, Maud, born 
October 1, 1886. Mrs. Kiger is a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Kiger is 
a substantial man and stands high as a citizen, is well known throughout the county 
and has an enviable reputation for integrity of character. In 1892 he founded the 
Walnut Valley Stock farm. This is pleasantly located south ot Osceola, and has 
excellent facilities for becoming widely known. 

Francis M. JacKSON, deputy prosecuting attorney for the Thirty- second Judicial 
Division, embracing St. Joseph and La Porte counties. The bar of South Bend, 
Ind., contains among its members manj' of the brightest, most learned and most pro- 
ficient lawyers in the country. Some of them are prominent in political life as well 
as in the professional arena, and many of them are identified with the public insti- 
tutions and business corporations of the citj'. Such an one is Francis M. Jackson, 
who was born in German township of this county March 6, 1864, son of William 
O. Jackson, a successful tiller of the soil of German township, who was born in 
Ohio, was brought to St. Joseph county, Ind., and is now fifty-seven years of age. 
His wife was formerly Miss Elizabeth Chamberlain, a native of Ohio also, who be- 
came a resident of this State and count}' when twelve years of age. Francis M. 
Jackson was the fourth of eight children born to this worthy couple, spent his early 
life in discharging sach duties as fall to the lot of the farmer's boy, and after re- 
ceiving a practical education in the schools of the rural district, he spent one year 
iu the Valparaiso Normal School. Immediately following this he began teaching at 
the Stover School -house iu Clay township, but in the summer of 1884 entered upon 
the study of law at Valparaiso. In order to ijrocure means with which to pursue 
his studies, he again taught school in the winter of 1884-5, following that occu- 
pation with success in Green township of this county. In the summer of 1885 he 
came to South Bend and read law iu the office of J. P. Creed, after which he spent 
one year in the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, pursuing his legal studies. 
In the spring of 1886 he was admitted to the St. Joseph county bar and immedi- 
ately thereafter opened an ofiice, hung out his shingle and waited for clients. His 
period of probation was not long, however, and he was soon in the enjoyment of a 
fair practice, but in 1887 he decided to go to Great Bend, Kan., and there he remained 
until the fall of the following year. He then returned to South Bend and formed 
a co-partnership with Hon. T. E. Howard, which continued until April, 1891. At 
this time, on account of ill health, M. P. D. Connolly, prosecuting attorney of this 
di.strict, was compelled to give up his duties and Mr. Jackson took charge of all the 
business of the office. He has been a valuable factor in the district government, 
and in all his relations has exhibited true citizenship and a zealous adherence to 
correct and conservative principles. In 1890 Miss Belle L. Judie became his wife, 
she being a native of the county, a daughter of Paul Judie, and a former pupil of 
Mr. Jackson's. The latter has always supported the principles of Democracy, and 
socially is a member of South Bend Lodge, No. 29, of the I. O. O. F., the Red Men 
and the Royal Arcanum. His career thus far has been one of gratifying success, 
and his record in the past will insure him a successful future. 

J.icoB Hose is a substantial citizen of St. Joseph county, Ind., and from early 
boyhood has devoted his attention to farming interests, being now the owner of an 
excellent tract of laud comprising 100 acres, which is the result of earnest and per- 
sistent toil, as well as progressive and enlightened views. His father, Peter Hose, 
came from Germany, but prior to that time had married Elizabeth Freese, by whom 
he became the father of seven children: Peter, Jacob, John, Henry, Christian, 
Philip and Elizabeth. After spending some time in the State of New York, Mr. 
Hose removed to Ohio aud from there to St. Joseph county, Ind. , about 1852, 
settling on a small farm on which he made his home until after the great Civil 
war, when he removed to Shelby county. Mo. , where he was called from life at the 
age of seventy years. His first wife died in St. Joseph county and he afterward 
married again. He was a member of the German Presbyterian Church, and an Indus- 



MEM0IR8 OF INDIANA. 386 

trious aad upright citizen. Jacob Hose first saw the light of day in the State of 
New York and when about nine years of age came to St. Joseph county, Ind., with 
his parents and in the district schools of this section he acquired a practical educa- 
tion, sufficient to tit him foi' the successful conduct of his business. Having been 
brought up to a knowledge of farm work he began working out for the different 
farmers of the neighborhood at the age of thirteen years, continuing thus employed 
until the firing on Fort Sumter. However, his youth prevented him from entering 
the service until December 14, 1863, when he became a member of Company D., One 
Hundred and Twenty-eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, enlisting at Mish- 
awaka and serving until honorably discharged May 27, 1865, at Jefferson Hospital, 
where he had been for some time on account of a gunshot wound which he had re- 
ceived and which eventually resulted in a stiff knee. He was in the engagements 
of Lost Mountain, Tenn., Atlanta, Peach Tree Creek, Buzzard Roost and Franklin, 
Tenn. , where he received his wound. He was carried off the field about dark and 
taken to Nashville, by ambulance, eighteen miles away and from there to Louisville, 
Ky., thence to Jeffersonville Hospital, Indianapolis, where he remained until dis- 
charged. The ball was removed from his knee after his return home, after he had car- 
ried it one year and nine mouths. He was one of tlie faithful soldiers of the war, 
and about one month before his discharge had been promoted to the position of ser- 
geant. While in the service he was sick with small-pox for about one month. He was 
disabled for about three years after the war, but at the end of that time rented a small 
farm, and April 23, 1868, led to the altar Miss Sarah J., daughter of Samuel and 
Sarah (Byrkett) Akins, who presented him with a family of six children: Charles, 
Cora, Flora, William W., Gracie B., James M., and two children that died in infancy. 
After residing on rented land for a short time Mr. Hose purchased -10 acres in Penn 
township, on which his home continued to be for five years, at the end of which 
time he settled in Mishawaka and followed the calling of a teamster. Upon dis- 
posing of his real estate he bought his present property, or rather a portion of it, 
but increased it by subsequent purchase and is now the owner of a fertile and well- 
improved farm of 100 acres, on which he has a comfortable residence and where he 
makes a good living. As a citizen he stands deservedly high in the estimation of 
his fellows, and he is also a kind husband and father and an excellent neighbor. 
His children are intelligent and well educated, a credit to himself and wife, and 
give every promise of becoming substantial and law-abiding citizens. Mr. Hose's 
judgment has led him to support Republican principles on all occasions, and he and 
his amiable wife have long been members of the Methodist Church. 

Clanden K. Curtis, a substantial farmer of Union township, Elkhart Co., Ind., 
resides in the northeastern part of the township, eight and one-half miles from 
Goshen, where he receives his mail. He was born in Canada West, or Ontario, July 
27, 1850, and was the eldest son born to B. S. and Elizabeth (Kupland) Curtis. B. 
S. Curtis was a native of Orange county, N. Y., born May 20. 1815, and the son of 
Gad and Mary (Hitchcock) Curtis. Gad Curtis was a New Yorker by birth, born 
March. 1791, and was reared and married in his native State. Soon after his mar- 
riage he went to Canada, and reared a family of children, five of whom were 
boys, viz. : Burtin S. ; Clanden; Julia, who married a Mr. Jacob Wismer; Gad; Milin; 
Margaret and Moses. Of these children our subject's father was the eldest. The 
Curtis family is of English origin. Gad Curtis served in the War of 1812, and lived 
to a good old age, passing away in 1869. He was a strong and powerful man, even 
in his old age. His wife was a New York lady, and she, too. lived to an advanced 
age. The family emigrated to Canada at an early day, and there the children grew 
up, married, and scattered. The second son, Clanden, became a minister of the 
Evangelical Association. He has reared a family, and still lives in New York State. 
Julia is a member of the Church of England. B. S. Curtis, father of subject, was 
married in Canada, and there made his home until 1857. He was a potter by trade. 
While a resident of Canada he was quite prominent in politics, was justice of the 



386 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

peace for about twelve years, and held other local positions. In 1857 he emigrated 
to Olive township, Elkhart Co., Ind., and settled on a farm of 100 acres which was 
partly improved. Previous to this, in 18-45, while residing in Canada, he became a 
minister of the Gospel, and was active in this noble work for twenty years. In the 
year 1864 he enlisted as chaplain of the One Hundred and Forty-second Indiana, and 
remained with that regiment until the close of the war. He was in a number of 
prominent engagements, and served his country faithfully. Returning from the war, 
he turned his attention to the improvement of his farm. He also carried on his 
ministerial duties for a number of years. After residing in Elkhart county, Ind., for 
twenty-two years, he passed to his final reward on October 20, 188C. In politics 
he was a " black Abolitionist," bitter against slavery, and a firm believer in the 
rights of the negro to have freedom. After coming to this country he held no public 
offices, but was ever a public-spirited man, interested in educational as well as re- 
ligious affairs. Socially he was a Master Mason. In 1880 he left Elkhart county, 
went to La Grange cjuaty, this State, and later to Reed City, Mich., where he died. 
He was a man of some property and was generous and free hearted, giving freely of 
his means to support all good enterprises. His wife was a native of Canada, and the 
eldest of four children born to Mr. Kupland, the other children being 
Elizabeth, Susan and Levi. Her death occurred in 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis 
were the parents of seven children, two dying when small; Clara, now Mrs. Frank; 
Freedman; Susan died when small; Leah, married Joseph Musser. and they make 
their home in Harrison township, this county; Elizabeth, married and resides in Van 
Buren county, Mich., on a farm (she has a family); Berton, died when a small boy; 
Clanden (subject), and Julia. The latter resides in Branch county, Mich., and mar- 
ried Adam Heltzel, a farmer. They have a family. Clanden K. Curtis remained in 
Canada until seven years of age, and then came with his parents to Indiana. His 
early days were passed on the farm and in the school room, and when nineteen years 
of age he started out to make his own way in life. As he had been reared to farm- 
ing, it was but natural perhaps that he should choose that as his occupation in life, 
and he engaged in tilling the soil on his father's place. Later he moved to another 
county, resided there for eight years, and then returned to this county, where he 
settled in Union township on a farm of 208 acres. He has now resided on this 
place for about thirteen years, and it is one of the best improved places in the county, 
and the largest tract owned in the township. Farming and stockraising have been 
his chief occupation, and he has met with good success. For sixteen years Mr. Cur- 
tis has been a member of the Mennonite Brethren in Christ, and for the past eight 
or nine years he has been preaching, part of the time in Michigan, where he now has 
a charge. He devoted a large part of his time to the church, and hopes in the future 
to devote his entire time to the good work. In politics Mr. Curtis is a Republican, 
and is deeply interested in the affairs of his State and country, particularly in edu- 
cational matters. He was married in June, 1869, to Miss Leah Blosser, a native of 
Mahoning county, Ohio, born November 27, 1850, and one of eight children born to 
Reuben and Barbara (Metsler) Blosser. Her brothers and sisters were named as 
follows: John. Tobias, Abraham, Peter, Elizabeth, Samuel, Scott and Noah. All but 
John, Tobias and Samuel, are still living. When fifteen j-ears of age Mrs. Curtis went 
to Canada with her mother, her father having died many years before, and settled on a 
farm. In 1869 she was married to Mr. Curtis. She was a member of the Mennonite 
Church, and died on January 25, 1879, leaving four children; Lucinda, who was 
born in 1870, and who is now the wife of Samuel Hoover, of Harrison township, and 
the mother of one child, Armilla, who was born December 3, 1891; Ella, who was 
born August 22, 1871, and is now in Chicago; Joseph, born June 3, 1873, is at home: 
and Barbara, born May 22, 1877, is at home. Mr. Curtis was married September 22, 
18 — , to Miss Rebecca Blosser, a cousin of his first wife, and a daughter of Peter 
and Mary A. (Reed) Blosser. Mrs. Curtis was born October 27, 1850, in Mahoning 
county, Ohio, and was one of three children, the others being Amos and Susan. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 387 

She came to this county with her parents about forty years ago, and her father died 
in 1855 or 1860. To Mr. and Mrs. Curtis have been born six children, as follows: 
Viola, born October 8, 1882; Eva C, born February 14, 1884; Otho, born February 
12, 1886; Euel M., born September 20, 1889; and a boy baby, born June 4, 1892. 
Mr. and Mrs. Curtis are among the representative citizens of the county and are 
highly esteemed by all. 

Jacob Ebv. The farming class of America and especially of the northern tier 
of States, is noted for the degree of intelligence that is possessed among its repre- 
sentatives. Mr. Eby belongs to one of the most progressive of families and as a 
tiller of the soil, as well as in other respects, he has endeavored to keep out of old 
grooves and has always favored the adoption of new and improved methods in con- 
ducting his operations. The family originated in Switzerland and were Catholics. 
A well-defined tradition in the family relates that at one time there were five 
brothers of the name liviag in Switzerland and all were Catholics, but one who was 
a Mennonite, which sect was greatly persecuted in Switzerland, and many of its 
followers found homes in the wilderness of Pennsylvania, and among them was the 
founder of the Eby family in America. The family resided in Pennsylvania for 
generations and there John Eby, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, fol- 
lowed the calling of a blacksmith and was married to a Miss Lehmy, their children, 
Peter and David, being the only ones of their family that are remembered. David 
Eby, son of John, was born in Pennsylvania and was but twelve years of age when 
he started out to make his own way in the world, and in 1807 went to Canada with 
a party of eleven other men, five of which company are remembered: Benjamin 
and Samuel Eby, distant relatives of David; Joseph Snyder; Peter and Daniel Erb, 
three of whom were married men and the rest single. They were all Mennonites 
and settled in ^Vaterloo township, Waterloo Co., Ontario, and the city of Berlin 
now stands on the' ground which was taken by Benjamin Eb}\ David Eby was 
married there to Elizabeth Bechtel, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Allabaugh) 
Bechtel, and after his marriage settled on and cleared up a good farm from the 
dense timber with which it was covered. It consisted of 330 acres, and besides this 
he owned 200 acres in the township of Woolwich. Mr. and Mrs. Eby became the 
parents of eleven children: Joseph, Mary, Mattie, Jacob, Anuie,Elizabetli, Fronica, 
Susan, David, Elias and Enoch. Joseph Bectel, the maternal grandfather of the 
subject of this sketch, was a Mennonite preacher; Benjamin Eby was a bishop in 
the church and Samuel Eby was an elder, and together they established a church in 
their settlement which flourished, and at the death of Benjamin Eby, about 1850, 
there were 1,100 members, nearly all of whom were converted through the instru- 
mentality of these humble followers of Christ. David Eby died at the age of sev- 
enty-five years in March, 1855, leaving a goodly property and an unsullied name as 
a heritage to his children, before whom he always set a good example, and to whom 
he was a kind and faithful father. His farm is now very valuable, as it is close to 
the city of Berlin, and is owned by David Eby and his sons and is valued at about 
$100,000. Jacob Eby was born on the old homestead in Canada, October 18, 1815, 
and, owing to the primitive condition of the country during his youth, he received 
a very limited education, his studies being mainly pursued of evenings by the old- 
fashioned fireplace. Like many of the early pioneers he was hand}' with tools and 
worked at carpentering, blacksmithing and the mason's trade. When he was a 
young man wild game was very plentiful, and as he was skillful in the use of the 
rifle, and very fond of the sport, much of his leisure was spent in the chase. He 
kept an account of the game killed and brought down 46 deer, 7 wolves, 2 bear and 
shot and trapped 100 foxes. Coon, mink, martin, fish, otter and wildcat also fell 
victims to his skill. Two of the wildcats that bo killed were as large as a common 
dog. When a young man he and his dog were one day in a field near some heavy 
timl)er in Canada, where several men were chopping wood, when a half-grown black 
bear came through the trees, but becoming frightened by the shouts of the men, 



388 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

turned and came through the field. Mr. Eby waited for it and at the right moment 
attacked it with knife and club and with the help of the dog, which was large and 
strong, killed it. On another occasion, when he was going into the woods to split 
posts he saw a full-grown wolf asleep in a fallen tree top, whereupon he threw his 
ax, struck it fairly and killed it. April 7, 1840, he was married to Polly Bingaman, 
a daughter of John and Hannah (Berkey) Bingaman, her father being of Pennsyl- 
vania Dutch stock. He cleared a good farm of 100 acres and was accidentally 
killed by the falling of a large limb from a burning tree when about seventy years 
of age. He and his wife were Mennonites and the parents of the following family: 
Judith, Esther, Susanna, Hannah, Eunice, Catherine, Mary, Magdaline, John, Sal- 
lie and Isaac. Eight children have been born toMr. and Mrs. Eby: Enoch; Simon, 
who died at the age of twenty-one years; Seth; Cyrus; Jacob; John; Joseph and 
Noah. After his marriage Mr. Eby settled seven miles north of his father's home- 
stead on a 200-acre tract of wild laud for which he paid $750, and here he lived 
and worked hard until 1860, when he came to St. Joseph county, Ind. , and bought 
2S0 acres of land, 80 of which were cleared. He has improved the remainder by 
thrift and perseverance and added to his original purchase until he at one time 
owned 700 acres, all of which he has given to his children, except 280 acres. He 
and his wife have been life-long members of the Mennonite church, but have liber- 
ally assisted other churches with their means. He contributed money toward build- 
ing two Mennonite Churches in his vicinity, as well as for the Catholic and Baptist 
Churches of Mishawaka. He is generous and highminded, broad in his views and 
well posted on all topics. His sons are all settled near him and are in good circum- 
stances: Enoch, who is farming near Tippecanoe Lake. Ind., married Keziah 
Wendy and has three children: Seth farms near Bangor, Mich., married Hannah 
Herrington and has two children; Cyrus is a farmer near the old home, is married 
to Annie Wenger and has seveu children; Jacob also farms near'home, is married 
to Elizabeth Wenger and has eight children ; John is a farmer, is married to Harriet 
Weaver and has two children; Noah farms, is married to Laura Moon, by whom 
he has two children; Joseph is at home. Mr. and Mrs. Eby have two great-grand- 
children. Their granddaughter, Hannah Eby, daughter of Enoch, married Emmet 
Gordey and has one son, Alva Allen. John Eby, a grandson, married Mary Eby 
and has a sou, Walter. Mr. Eby Is a stanch Republican. 

Jacob B. Eby, Osceola, Ind. Our subject is one of the solid and prosperous 
farmers of Penn township a good citizen and a descendant of good old Pennsylvania 
Dutch stock (see sketch of Jacob Eby). He was born on his father's farm, near 
Waterloo, Canada, October 12, 1851, was brought up on the farm and came with his 
father to St. Joseph county in 1861, on the 4th of March, being then ten years of 
age. He attended the common schools of the district and married, September 16, 
1872. Elizalieth Wenger, born July 5, 1857, daughter of Henry and Margaret (Wan- 
ner) Wenger. Henry Wenger was born in Lancaster county, Penn., was a Mennonite 
in religion and the father of twelve children, as follows: Samuel, Maria (who died 
young), Ann, Elizabeth, Susannah, Daniel, Henry, Abraham, David, Mattie, Mary 
and Margaret. Mr. Wenger settled in Ohio at an early day, in Stark county, none 
of his children, except Samuel, having been born in Pennsylvania. Later he removed 
to Franklin county and then to Seneca county, but about 1866 he removed to Elk- 
hart county, Ind., and settled in Olive township on a good farm of eighty acres. 
He was an upright, industrious man, respected by all. He was a devoted Christian 
and an honored citizen. In his political faith he was a Republican. His son 
Samuel married Lydia Topper, is a thresher, lives in Penn township and has six 
children ; Ann married Cyrus Eby, a farmer of Penn township, and has seven children ; 
Elizabeth married Jacob B. Eby, a farmer of Penn township, and has eight children 
(Cyrus and Jacob B. Eby being brothers); Susan married Joseph Haun, a farmer 
of Madison township, and has five children; Daniel married Annie Holderman, is a 
farmer of Olive township in Elkhart county, and has three children; Henry married 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 389 

Elizabeth Schrock, is a farmer of Olive township and has one child: Abraham mar- 
ried Alice Holdermau, sister to Daniel's wife, and he is a farmer of Elkhart county 
and has two children; David married Eva S. Loucks, is a farmer of Olive township 
and has one child; Mattie, yet single; Mary married Jacob H. Loucks, brother to 
David's wife, who is a farmer of Olive township and has two children; and Mar- 
garet married Martin Bloucker, a farmer of Olive township, and has one child. 
After marriage Jacob B. Eby settled on the old Eby homestead, where his father 
settled after he removed from Canada. Eight children of Mr. and Mrs. Eby are as 
follows: Mary, born December 2, 1873; Margaret, born March 29, 1876; Annas, born 
November 22, 1877; Walter, born June 26, 1880; Jacob W., born December 28, 
1882; Mervin, born March 9, 1886; Ralph, born August 29, 1889, and Ira Eby, 
born October 13, 1892. Mr. Eby is a practical farmer, who, by industry and 
perseverance has acquired 120 acres of land, with excellent improvements. In 1890 
he built a substantial and tasteful two-story brick residence finished in hardwood, 
everything handy and in good style. Mr. Eby is a self-made man and has made his 
own way, and his accumulations are the result of honest endeavor and hard labor. 
Politically he is a Republican, is a man of intelligence, takes the newspapers and 
keeps lip to the times, being well informed on the leading subjects of the day. His 
daughter Mary married, December 6, 1890, John W. Eby, a farmer of Madison town- 
ship, and they have one son, Walter J. Eby, who was born April 28, 1891. All of 
the children of our subject received good educations in the district schools and 
Margaret attended the normal school at Valparaiso, Ind. Mr. Eby had an experi- 
ence while hunting with his brothers, Seth and Cyrus, and Ensign Hummel. They 
came across a doe, five miles south and one mile west of his present home. Jacob 
and his In-other Seth raised their rifles simultaneously and both balls struck him 
and the doe fell dead. This was the last deer killed in this vicinity. 

John H. Martin, Osceola, Ind. Among the old soldiers whose life records are 
to be found in the annals of St. Joseph county, and whose bravery and endurance 
upon the battlefield and on the march is well known, is John H. Martin, one of the 
prominent citizens of the county. His grandfather was one of the pioneers of this 
section and settled five miles north of Mishawaka, where he reared his family. 
William, his son and father of John H. , was born in Pennsylvania, but became a 
resident of St. Joseph county when a boy and upon reaching manhood became a 
farmer and a boatman on the St. Joseph River. He married Permilla Harris, daughter 
of Jacob and Susanna (Hartman) Harris, the former of whom was the first white 
settler of Harris township. He cleared a good farm of 200 acres on which he died 
in 1859. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Martin resulted in the birth of seven children: 
George W., Jennie, John H., Mary E., Alvira, Jacob T., and Francis M. (who died 
at the age of six weeks, at the same time its mother died). Mr. Martin was a gold 
digger of 1849, crossing the plains during the great excitement and died while in 
the West, his wife having died a few years earlier. John H. Martin was born one 
mile north of South Bend, March 11, 184-1, and at the early age of seven years was 
left an orphan with his own way to make in the world. He therefore gained 
but a limited education, but succeeded in acquiring a fair knowledge of farming, 
which occupation he followed until he enlisted in the service of his country, August 
2, 1862, becoming a member of Company K, Eighty-seventh Regiment Indiana 
Volunteer Infantry, with which he served in a very faithful and praiseworthy manner 
for ten months, when he was honorably discharged in May, 1863, being injured by a 
fall in a skirmish at Nolandsville, Tenn. , which resulted in the necessary amputa- 
tion of his left leg, near the body, after his return home. This operation was 
performed in the spring of 1864, and until that time he suffered in an untold manner. 
In 1869 he married Lizzie Pierson, daughter of Joseph Pierson, and their union has 
resulted in the birth of a son, William R., who is married and living at Ogden, Utah. 
Mrs. Martin was called from life May 4, 1884. and Mr. Martin took for his second 
wife Jennie D. Norwood, who was born November 23, 1860, a daughter of Francis 



390 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

A. and Nancy (Mikel) Norwood. Mr. Norwood was born in Ohio of English par- 
ents and when a young man became a citizen of St. Joseph county, his marriage 
resulting in the birth of two children: Jennie D. and Minerva A. He was a soldier 
in Company K, Fifty-seventh Kegiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in which he 
enlisted October 16, 1862, receiving his discharge on the 25th of February, 1863. 
He is now living in Osceola. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have one child, Ida M., born 
March 26, 1888. In 1870 Mr. Martin bought his present home, consisting of twelve 
acres of nicely improved land, on which he erected a substantial and tasteful 
residence. He devotes his land to the culture of fruit. He has always been a 
Republican politically, and being an honorable, upright man, a leader in all good 
causes he has a great many friends and is deservedly popular. He has held the 
offices of constable and census taker, the latter in 1890, and discharged his duties 
with aptitude and faithfulness. He is of the stuff of which model citizens are made, 
being patriotic and loyal to the core and public spirited to a degree. 

D. E. CoMMiNS, dentist. Perhaps no public servant deserves more grateful 
recognition at our hands than the dentist, and among its most successful adherents 
may be mentioned Dr. Cummins who is a thorough master of his art, both in its me- 
chanical and scientific features, and possesses an exceedingly light and gentle 
touch, consequently the best possible results are obtained. His office is equipped 
with every kind of modern apparatus which is known to the science of dentistry, and 
which will in any way tend to alleviate the sufferings of patients. Teeth are ex- 
tracted, filled and adjusted with the best skill and judgment, at prices which are al- 
ways very moderate. He was born in Armstrong county, Penn., September 5, 1847, 
to W. S. and Isabelle M. (George) Cummins, who were also Pennsylvanians. His 
initiatory training was received in the common schools and academy, but at the age 
of nineteen years he left the shelter of the parental roof and entered upon the pro- 
fession of dentistry, and for the first year worked for his board with his brother, 
S. M. After remaining with him four years he, in November, 1870, came to South 
Bend with about $450, and hung out his shingle to let people know what his calling 
was and that he desired their patronage. Although but a youth he soon built up a- 
fine practice and he has now the finest and best equipped office in northern Indiana. 
He moved from the old Colfax Building to his present commodious quarters in 1887, 
where his patrons immediately followed him. He is located on the corner of Col- 
fax avenue and Main streets, being the owner of the block in which he conducts his 
business, which is one of the handsomest structures in the city. He is also the 
owner of some valuable residence property, all of which he has acquired by his own 
efforts. He is not only one of the finest dentists in the State but is a shrewd busi- 
ness man as well, his knowledge of the business affairs of life being keen, far-seeing 
and practical. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., the Eoj'al Arcanum and the 
National Union. In 1871 he was married to Miss Etta Lowry, of Elkhart, by whom 
he has two children: Maud and Grace. The Doctor has been a t/ustee in the Pres- 
byterian Church for twelve years. Politically he has always been a strong Repub- 
lican. 

Mrs. Dorothy Sandilands, Mishawaka, lud. This estimable lady is one of the 
pioneer residents of Mishawaka and has passed nearly all her long and honored life 
in this town. She was born in Liddesdale, Rocksburyshire, Scotland May 10, 1815, 
her ancestors having lived in that shire for many generations and were Scotch 
Presbyterians. Her father, George Oliver, was born in Liddesdale and by occupa- 
tion was a shepherd. He married Bessie Irwin and to them eight children were 
given: George, John, Andrew, Jesse, Dorothy, Robert, William, James, all of whom 
were reared on the braes of bonnie Scotland. George Oliver came to America in 1835 
and brought his family with him, except three children who had preceded him, and 
had settled near the town of Lyons, N. Y. , and there Mr. Oliver remained for one 
year, then came to what is now Mishawaka, south of the river. He was very lame 
from the effects of a fall in Scotland many years before and could do no work after he 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 391 

came to the towa, dying September 6, 1837 at the age of sixty-seven years. 
Throughout his life his career was marked by honesty and industry and he was 
accordingly highly respected. His widow survived him many years and died June 
27, 18 — at the age of eighty-six years. She was a devout member of the Presby- 
terian Church. The daughter, Dorothy Oliver, was married to Alexander Sandilands 
whose birthplace was Edinboro, Scotland, where he first saw the light of day in 
1806, his father bearing the same name and being a Scotch Presbyterian in religious 
belief. Alexander Sandilands, Jr., received a good common-school education and in 
his early manhood learned the wagon maker's trade in his native land, a calling he 
followed after coming to this country, in the city of Buffalo, N. Y. He was there 
married to Annie Dickey, and to them were born two children: Jane, who died at 
the age of seven years and Ann, who died in Kansas, a married woman, leaving 
three children. After the death of his wife Mr. Sandilands lived in Detroit for some 
time, but in 1834 became a citizen of Mishawaka, Ind., obtaining employment in an 
iron furnace of this place, working as a pattern and flask maker. He was very 
skillful, and for many years was with the St. Joseph Iron Company, after which he 
spent some time at making wagons and threshing machines. Both Mr. and Mrs. 
Sandilands were among the founders of the Presbyterian Church of this place and 
he was an elder and trustee in the same for many years. To them were born eight 
children, four of whom died in infancy. Those living are: James, who was born Oc- 
tober 4, 1843, married Sarah Willard, by whom he has three children and is a farmer 
of Boone county. Neb. ; John, born September 20, 1845; George B., born July 10, 1852, 
is a K. T. in the Masonic fraternity; and William A., born January 31, 1856, married 
Mary L. McAffee and is the father of two children. At first Mr. Sandilands was a 
Democrat politically, but afterward became a Republican and voted for Abraham 
Lincoln. He had the confidence of the people among whom he lived and for some 
years faithfully filled the office of town trustee. He was a conscientious Christian, 
a true and tried friend, a kind and considerate husband and father, and honest and 
upright in every thought, word and deed. He paid the last debt of nature on the 
10th of January, 1871, leaving some valuable property to his widow and children. 
He was a strong Union man in the great struggle between the North and South, and 
at the last call for troops, enlisted in the same company and regiment with John 
Quigg, of Mishawaka — Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Regiment, 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, but was taken sick at Lookout Mountain and died of 
typhoid fever at Tallahassee, Tenn., October 2, 1862. He was considered an 
exceptionally healthy and robust young man, of a kind and generous disposition and 
his death was deeply mourned. Mr. Sandilands, the father, was a charter member 
of Mishawaka Lodge of the A. F. & A. M., in which he had attained to the Royal 
Arch degree. Mrs. Sandilands came to this place when there were but very few 
houses in the town, and can well remember many interesting scenes of pioneer days. 
She is a lady of great nobility of character, has gracefully grown old, and is happy 
in the friendship of all who know her and in the affection of her children and 
grandchildren. 

Milton McKnight, Mishawaka, Ind. The gentleman whose honored name opens 
this sketch is one of the oldest settlers of Penn township. The McKnight family 
was one of the original pioneer families of the township and all its members have 
been substantial and prominent citizens, having descended from sterling Scotch 
ancestry. John McKnight, the great-grandfather of our subject, came to America 
at the same time as did others of the family, settled in Virginia, married there, and 
became the father of James, Andrew, David, Samuel, William and Robert. They 
all became farmers, except Andrew, who settled in Louisville, Ky., and whose 
descendants grew to be wealthy people. James McKnight, the grandfather of 
our subject, was born in Virginia and became a farmer of Rockbridge county in that 
State. He married Hannah Montgomery at Raleigh, N. C, in 1792, and they were 
the parents of John, Betsy and David. Betsy married Anthony Defrees, of South 



392 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Bend, who was a prominent man in his day. In 1814 James McKnight moved to 
what is now Franklin county, Ind., and settled on wild land; this place he improved 
and here passed the remainder of his days. John McKuight was born in Rockbridge 
county, Va., in 1794, was reared a farmer, and received a common-school education. 
When a boy of sixteen years he came with his father to Franklin county. Ind., there 
married Sarah, the daughter of John Tolfer, and to Mr. and Mrs. McKnight were 
born nine children, as follows : Betsy, James, Nancy, Hannah (deceased), Samuel, 
Andrew (deceased), Milton, William (deceased) and Mary. Mr. McKnight first set- 
tled in Franklin county, Ind., where he remained until 1834, and made there a fine 
farm, but in the latter year he came to St. Joseph county and settled one and one- 
half miles east of Mishawaka, on the north side of the St. Joseph River. Here he 
entered a tract of 500 acres of land, cleared up a good farm and left the 
same to his children. Both he and wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. 
He died at the age of forty-six years, having been a hard-working, industrious, 
pioneer citizen, much respected by all. When Mr. McKnight settled in Penn town- 
ship it was a primitive wilderness, with here and there the few improvements of the 
earlier settlers. The country presented a very beautiful and park-like appearance. 
Large oak trees, at a considerable distance apart, unencumbered with undergrowth, 
gave an open appearance to the country. The grass grew with great luxuriance; 
the annual tires, kindled by the Indians, cleared the country of the underbrush and 
enabled the grass to grow unchecked. Beautiful wild flowers bloomed from early 
in the spring until late in the fall and gave the plains a charming appearance. The 
St. Joseph River, then a much larger stream, flowed through a large stretch of 
country, giving excellent pasture lands along its borders. The country then was the 
hunter's paradise, and here the early pioneer found food for his family in addition 
to the pleasures of the chase. Deer and wild turkey abounded and the river was 
full of fish. Milton McKnight, son of the above pioneer and the subject of this sketch, 
was born May 3, 1833, in Franklin county, Ind., on his father's farm, received a 
common-school education and was reared a farmer. He was but one year of age 
when brought to St. Joseph county, Ind., by his parents, with whom he remained 
until he married. His wife was Lucinda Finch, born January 15, 1841, daughter 
of Sidney and Jane (Graves) Finch. Sidney Finch was an old settler of the county, 
coming in 1841 to Mishawaka and settling three miles northeast of the town, in Penn 
township. He was a prosperous farmer and became the father of Lucinda, George, 
Edward, Charles, Clark and Fred, a fine family of children, one of whom (George) 
became second lieutenant of Company D, One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Regi- 
ment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and died from the effects of army life. After 
marriage, Milton McKnight settled on the old homestead, of which he received 
ninety acres, which was partly his share and was partly purchased from one of the 
other heirs, and here he lived until he came to Mishawaka in 1889. Both Mr. and 
Mrs. McKnight are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is now a 
trustee in the same and has always assisted his church liberally with his means. He 
and his wife are the parents of two children: Robert S., born October 11, 1861, and 
Anthony D., born July 5, 1869. Robert married Ella Boyd and has two children, 
Harold A. and Lynn B., and resides on the old home farm. Anthony D. was born 
on the old home farm, received a common- school education, afterward attending the 
high school at Mishawaka, later learning telegraphy and locating at the Grand 
Trunk station. He remained as night operator at Mishawaka from 1887 to 1889. 
In 1889 he was appointed relieving agent and served about two years in this capacity 
and is now operator and bill clerk at Mishawaka. He is an Odd Fellow and is sec- 
retary of Monitor Lodge, No. 286, and has also passed the chairs of the encamp- 
ment. Politically he is a Republican. Both of the sons of Mr. McKnight were well 
educated. Our subject has passed almost the whole of his life in Penn township and 
is well and favorably known as a man of honorable character and a good citizen. 
He has always been a hard working and industrious man and has won the respect of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 393 

all with whom he has come in contact. His descendants may well take an honest 
pride in the sterling Scotch ancestry from which they spring. The McKnight fam- 
ily descends from good old colonial American stock; they are a sturdy, substantial 
race of well-to-do people and number among them many prominent American citi- 
zens. The children of John McKnight married as follows: Betsy married William 
Defrees; she is now a widow, living in South Bend, in comfortable circumstances 
and the owner of real estate. James married Eliza McCreary and has three children; 
is a farmer, residing two miles east of Mishawaka, and owns 300 acres of laud which 
is part of the old homestead. Nancy married S. F. Wood and has two children; 
she is a widow, living in Mishawaka. Samuel is a farmer, living one-half mile 
east of Mishawaka; has a farm of 109 acres, is in good circumstances, and has three 
children; and Maiy married Daniel McCreary, has two children and lives in Cal- 
ifornia. With known goodness of heart, Mr. and Mrs. McKnight have taken a 
little lad of two years, Frederick Finch, a nephew of Mrs. McKnight, and are 
rearing it as their own. 

Joseph Turnock. ex-sheriff of St. Joseph county, Ind. , and mauiifacturer of vin- 
egar, at South Bend, was born in Stoke, Staffordshire, England, September 30, 
1836, a son of Benjamin and Mary (Whittaker) Turnock, who sailed for the shores of 
America in 1840, lauding at New York, but taking up their residence shortly after in 
Jersey City. The father was a builder and contractor, and in 1849 came west and 
settled in St. Joseph county, Ind.. near Mishawaka, where he purchased a farm, to 
the tilling of which he devoted his attention to the exclusion of contracting and 
building. He subsequently removed to Elkhart, where he died in 1877. To him- 
self and wife a family of thirteen children was given, three sons and two daugh- 
ters, living at the present time, of whom the subject of this sketch is the eldest. 
He was but four years of age when brought to this country and received the principal 
part of his education in Jersey City, but also attended school for some time uear Elk- 
hart. He learned the plasterer's trade in South Bend, which he followed in con- 
nection with contracting until the war broke out. In 1863 his name could be found 
on the rolls of Company H, Twelfth Indiana Cavalry, in which he served until the 
war terminated. He held the rank of first lieutenant on entering the service and 
was mustered out as captain at Vieksburg. Miss. , in 1865. He was in a number of 
hotly contested engagements and on one occasion, at Vienna, Ala., had his horse shot 
from under him. At the close of hostilities he returned to South Bend and again 
engaged in plastering and contracting, which occupation he continued to follow 
until 1872, when he was elected sheriff of St. Joseph county, and honored with a 
re-election in 1S74, filling the position with distinguished ability. After vacating 
this office he resumed contracting, but later served four years as deputy sheriff 
under Z. M. Johnson. In 1885 he engaged in the manufacture of vinegar, in which 
business he is still successfully engaged. About 1885 he was chosen lieutenant- 
colonel of the First Veteran Regiment of the State Militia, having also held the 
position of captain in the same regiment. He is now a member of the G. A. E., 
and has been chief of the tire department of South Bend.; also city marshal, when 
he succeeded in uniforming the police of the city for the first time. He is a mem- 
ber of the A. F. & A. M., and the K. O. T. M. He is one of the leading 
spirits of the city and is one of the prime movers in all public enterprises. He 
was married in 1859 to Miss Frances Cothrell, a daughter of Capt. Samuel L. 
Cothrell, by whom he has three children. Politically the Colonel is a Republican 
and a stanch supporter of his party. 

W. H. JuDKiNS, of Mishawaka, Ind., comes of an excellent family and is, him- 
self, one of the substantial men of his section. He is the son of Stephen H. Jud- 
kins, who was born in Lebanon, N. H. , in 1808, and came to this section with the 
Brockport colony from a town of that name in New York State in 1837. He brought 
his family with him and made a home for them in Mishawaka, where he established 
himself as a wagon maker, erecting the first wagon shop in the town, which business 



394 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

be conducted successfully for twenty years. His wife was Phoebe Ann Simon, 
and to them four children were given: Mary, who was burned to death in 1839; 
William H., Melvina and Charles A., who was drowned in the St. Joseph River in 
1850. Both Mr. and Mrs. Judkins were leading members of the Presbyterian 
Church, and among the founders of that church in Mishawaka. The men and 
measures of the Republican party always received the support of Mr. Judkins, but 
prior to its formation he was a Whig. From 1859 to 1885, when his death occurred, 
he was a groceryman of Mishawaka, in the conduct of which business he showed 
himself to be a man of keen, commercial instincts, as he has always been one of the 
enterprising and public-spirited men of the town. He built one of the sections of 
Phoenix Block in 1873. Being a man of ability and intelligence, he was elected to 
the position of county assessor in 1847, and in early days was marshal of Mish- 
awaka and one of the town trustees for several years. During the lamentable Civil 
war he was a strong Union man. He came from a prominent family of New 
England, who originally came from old England, and were among the early settlers 
of Lebanon, N. H. Stephen Judkins, the father of Stephen H. , died in Mishawaka 
in 1848. ^Villiam H. Judkins, whose name heads this biography, was born in 
Mishawaka, October 5, 1841, and in the schools of the town he obtained a practical 
education. On October 7, 1861, he responded to the need of his country and joined 
Company F, Forty eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in which he served 
faithfully three years and ten months, being honorably discharged July 15, 1865, 
at Louisville, Ky. In the spring of 1862 he was promoted to the position of com- 
missary sergeant, and in March, 1864, he was appointed quartermaster of his 
regiment by Gov. Morton, in which official capacity he served until Lee's surrender. 
He at once returned to his birthplace and was here married on October 5, 1865, to 
Miss Belle M. Martling, daughter of J. W. and Lucy (Peek) Martling, the former 
of whom is one of the old pioneer citizens of the place. Four children have been 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Judkins: Berthn, Edith, Warren and Alice. After the war 
Mr. Judkins was in the grocery business with his father until 1886, but he after- 
ward turned his attention to the insurance and coal business, to which he still gives 
his attention. Like his worthy father before him, he possesses good business qual- 
ifications, has made the most of his opportunities, and has been successful in the 
accumulation of means. In June, 1889, he was one of the principal organizers of 
the Mishawaka Building & Loan Association, of which he is treasurer and one of the 
directors. He has always been a Republican, and as he has had the confidence of 
the people to a marked degree, he has held the offices of clerk and treasurer of the 
town, and has discharged his duties in a manner that has won him universal 
approval. In 1870 he was assistant United States marshal, and also census enumer- 
ator of Madison, Penn and Harris townships, and filled the same position in 1880 
for the town of Mishawaka, and Penn town-ship north of the river, and for the 
United States census of 1890 he took the products of industry of the manufacturing 
establishments of Mishawaka and South Bend. Socially he is a member of the 
A. F. & A. M., Mishawaka Lodge No. 130, and was secretary for many years. He 
is also a member of South Bend Comraandery No. 13, K. T., and Mishawaka Chapter 
No. 88, and Mishawaka Council No. 19. He belongs to the G. A. R., in which he 
was quartermaster two years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Judkins are members of the 
Presbyterian church, and for the past eighteen years he has been one of its elders. 
He was a delegate to the General Assembly from Indiana in 1876, at Philadelphia, 
Penn. He is quite active in political matters, and is deservedly popular. He has a 
nice residence in the town, besides owning two other houses, a part of the Phoenix 
Block and some valuable real estate. His daughter. Bertha E., was married in 
June, 1888, to Frederick G. Eberhart. Jr.. son of Adolphus Eberhart (see sketch), 
and his daughter, Edith, was married October 12, 1892, to D. O. Fonda. 

Albert McDonald. Among the photographers of northern Indiana who well 
deserve the appellation of " leading," it is safe to say that none are better qualified 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 395 

to execute work in this line than Mr. Albert McDonald, who has become celebrated 
for securing to sitters before the camera a graceful, natural pose and life-like and 
pleasing expression. He was born in Rochester, N. Y., January 12, 1841, a sou of 
Daniel Sprague and Mary E. (Billings) McDonald, who were highly honored resi- 
dents of their section of the Empire State. The father died in Michigan at the age 
of sixty-eight years, and the mother in South Bend when in her seventy-sixth year. 
The paternal grandfather was a native of the land of "thistles and oatmeal," and 
upon coming to " the laud of the free aud the home of the brave," settled in New 
York State. Albert McDonald attended the common and select schools of his native 
city, but when fourteen years of age removed with his parents to Grand Rapids, 
Mich., from which place he came to South Bend at the age of nineteen years. In 
1861 he purchased a photograph studio, at once began to perfect himself in the 
details of the work, and was so successful that he has followed the business ever 
since. He gives his personal attention to all departments of his studio and never 
fails to please his many patrons. He has one of the handsomest studios in Indiana, 
which was erected in 188fJ, having a frontage of twenty-two feet aud a depth of eighty- 
five feet, and is known as the "Ground Floor Studio." The rooms are spacious, 
handsomely and attractively fitted up, and are adorned with many beautiful speci- 
mens of his artistic work. He is of a decidedly practical turn of mind, enjoys a 
wide circle of friends and acquaintances, aud is very popular. lu 1860 Miss Susan 
Miller, of South Bend, a native of German township, became his wife, but died July 
29, 1892, at Diamond Lake, leaviug, besides her husband, two sons to mourn their 
loss: Edwin C. and Harry S. Mr. McDonald is a Republican in politics, but has 
never been an aspirant for political preferment. 

Dr. John H. Grimes is one of tne prosperous young physicians of St. Joseph 
county, Ind., and as he is very conscientious in the discharge of his professional 
duties, is well up with the times in medical lore, and has the ability to apply his 
knowledge at the proper time and in the proper place, it is not to be wondered at 
that he has a large patronage. He is a son of the well-known Dr. James F. Grimes, 
of Mishawaka, and has inherited from his worthy father many of the qualities which 
have been the stepping-stones to his successful professional career. (A sketch of 
the Grimes family appears in the biography of Dr. James F. Grimes.) Dr. John 
H. Grimes was born in Mishawaka June 19, 1853, and in the schools of that town 
and in South Bend he obtained a good education, for he possessed a bright mind, 
a retentive memory and was desirous of becoming well educated. At the early age 
of seventeen years he began the study of medicine, under the preceptorship of his 
father, aud it can with truth be said that he could have had no better instructor or 
one who could have taken more interest in his progress. In a short time he began 
riding with his father throughout the country when the latter made his professional 
calls, and in this manner, although he merely looked on for a number of years, he 
gained a great deal of practical and medical experience. He entered the Bennett 
School of Medicine (Eclectic), of Chicago, and graduated from this institution in 
1878, after which he entered at once upon his practice in Mishawaka. After two 
years of actual experience as a practitioner of the "healing art," he returned to 
Chicago and took a one-year's course in his alma mater, and as he most diligently 
applied himself to his books he tiius obtained a very thorough medical education. 
He continued to be associated in the practice of medicine with his father for eleven 
years, as an equal partner, but since January, 1889, he has pursued his calling on 
his own account. He has built up a practice that is exceptionally large, aud in the 
treatment of his cases he has been uniformly successful. He is a very active and 
zealous worker in the cause of afflicted humanity, and is kept busy almost day and 
night. He is a patron of the leading medical publications and has a medical library 
of considerable value, where his leisure time is spent in studying, for he believes it 
the duty of every physician to keep abreast of the times in his profession. January 
27, 1884, he was married to Miss Rose F. Fisher, a daughter of John and Eva 



396 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

(Bert) Fisher, and to their union two children have been given: Fred A. and Carrie 
M. Socially Dr. Grimes is a member of the Kniglits of Maccabees and is examining 
physician of the order. Politically he is a Eepublicaa. He is one of the popular 
professional men of the county, and with reason is considered one of her leading 
citizens. 

John J. McDonald. The career of Mr. McDonald presents an example of 
industry, perseverance and good management, rewarded by substantial results well 
worthy the imitation of all who start out in life as he did, with no capital except a 
good constitution and liberal supply of pluck and energy. He came originally 
from that grand old State, Virginia, born in Berkeley county, February 18, 1826, 
and was the eldest of four children born to Charles and Rebecca (White) McDonald. 
Charles McDonald was a native Virginian, born about 1800, and was married in that 
State. In the year 1837 he moved to Ohio, settled in Clark county, and there his 
death occurred ten years later. In politics he was a Whig, and left his native State 
because he was opposed to slavery. He made a good home, was a kind and industri- 
ous man, and one who was very popular. His wife was also born in the Old Domin- 
ion, and was the daughter of an early pioneer of that State. She died in Clark 
county, Ohio, three years after her husband, and was a member of the Society of 
Friends. They were the parents of five children, three of whom are living: Jane, 
who married Aaron Craig, died in Kosciusko county; Mar}' A., died in Clark county, 
Ohio, and was the wife of John Evans; Sarah E., married Alexander Walters (de- 
ceased), and resides in Marion county, Iowa; John J., subject of this sketch; and 
William, who lives in Piatt county. 111. The parents of these children passed 
through all the privations of pioneer life, both in Virginia and Ohio, and were ex- 
cellent people, well known in their neighborhood, and well respected by all favored 
with their acquaintance. The McDonalds vpere of Scotch, and the Whites of 
English extraction. Our subject was ten years of age when the family moved 
to Ohio, but well remembers the trip over the mountains, as they made the 
journey by wagons. He went to school both in Virginia and Ohio, and secured 
a good practical education in the subscription schools of that day. He assisted his 
father in the duties on the farm, grew to manhood on the same, and in 1850 married 
Miss Sarah Maxwell, daughter of Givin and Mary (Fisher) Maxwell, both natives 
of Virginia, and early settlers in Ohio, where they settled in Clark county. There 
the father worked at the shoemaker's trade, and died in 1853. In politics he was 
a Whig, and in religion a Methodist. He was a well-posted man for his time and 
day, and was progressive and enterprising. His life dated back to the beginning of 
the century. The mother passed away in Clark county about twelve years after the 
death of her husl)and, and was a member of the Protestant Methodist Episcopal 
Church. Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell were the parents of twelve children: Thomas, in 
Ohio; Frances (widow) resides in the same State; Nellie (deceased); Peter; William; 
Absalom; Mary; Sarah; John; Amy, and two others who died young. Of these 
children five are living: Sarah, born in Ohio, February 2, 1830, and grew to mature 
years in Clark county, where she obtained her education in the subscription schools; 
William, who was born Octoljer 15, 1850, married Miss Anna May, and now resides 
in Locke township, this county, having had three children, Ira (deceased), Iva B. 
and Edith May. John E., born in Ohio, December 1, 1852, married Miss Harriet 
Myers, and they have four children: John (deceased), Orvil, Clara and Freddie; 
they now live in Michigan. Martin L., born in Ohio in 1854, married Miss Sarah 
Bethel, and resides in Harrison township, tbis county. Elizabeth J., born Februarv 
18, 1856, died October 17, 1863. Mary A., born May 9, 1858, married David Rohrer, 
of Elkhart, Ind., and has five children: William, Clarence, Edgar, Guy and James. 
Thomas H., born January 27, 1860, is now residing in Union township; he mar- 
ried Miss Jennie Yarian, and they have four children: Minnie, Orval, Nellie and 
Harvey, besides one that died. Charles I., born August 29, 1862, resides in Goshen, 
and is the husband of Miss Rose Pebble. Amy F., born November 30, 1864, mar- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 397 

ried William Burtwbistle, aad is the mother of one child, Joy V.; they live in 
Xappanee. Eliza A., born March 2, 1867, married John Wisler, and they have two 
children: Madge and Charles; they live in Locke township. NoahF. , born October 
8, 1S69, resides at borne. Laura B., born February 14, 1878, at home. Clara A., 
born April 30, 1875, died September 1, 1877. Of this family all but two were 
reared, and of those living, only the two youngest are unmarried. When Mr. Mc- 
Donald came to this part of Indiana he bought eighty acres, which he has since 
improved until it is one of the best farms in the county. In his political views Mr. 
McDonald is a Republican, and be has held a number of public offices, among them 
those of road supervisor, school director and township trustee, holding the latter office 
four years. He now carries on general farming, and does all his trading at Xappa- 
nee. Before he came to this State, he worked as a teamster on the roads in Ohio 
for fourteen years, and after locating in Indiana, he ran a saw-mill for twenty years 
on Yellow Creek. In that, as in all other enterprises attempted by him, he was 
successful, his success being due to honest, bard work. 

Eli Miller, Misbawaka, Ind. At an early day seven brothers of the name of 
Miller came from Germany and settled in the eastern part of the United States, and 
of one of these our subject is a lineal descendant. Adam Miller, Sr., the grand- 
father of our subject, was a descendant of one of these early settlers, and was born 
in Pennsylvania in 1784. He went to Ohio when a young man, where he married 
Sarah Prior, and settled near the city of Columbus. He was the father of thirteen 
children, viz.: Sarah, Mai-y, John P., Anthony, Samuel W., David D., Margaret, 
Adam, Elizabeth, Jacob E., Eobert D. (who died young), Eliza W. and Henry S. 
Six of these are still living, aged from sixty-three to eighty-eight years. The first 
four sons entered the ministry. In 1830 Mr. Miller came to St. Joseph county, Ind., 
and settled on Beardsley's Prairie, in Harris township, near the Michigan line, part 
of his farm being in that State. Here be made a tine farm, which be sold many 
years after, and removed to Misbawaka, where be resided a few years, and then settled 
on a farm in Elkhart county, where he spent the remainder of his days. He was 
well educated and was a minister in the Baptist Church, being one of the old pioneer 
preachers who traveled about and preached in the houses of the settlers for many 
miles around, and was widely known and highly esteemed. Adam Miller, Jr., his 
son, was the father of our subject. He was born in Ohio, January 8. 1818, and 
received the common education of those pioneer days. He was reared a farmer and 
came with bis parents to this county in 1830, and December 2,1838, married Mercy A. 
Mead, daughter of Eli B. and Hannah (Snyder) Mead. Eli B. Mead was born in New 
York, December 1, 17110, and was the son of John Mead, a member of an old colo- 
nial family of German descent. John Mead enlisted at the age of fifteen years as a 
soldier in the Revolutionary war, serving through that struggle. In an early day he 
left New York, and settled in Dearborn county, Ind., and in 1834 he removed to 
Penn township, St. Joseph county, where he remained till his death. Eli B. Mead 
moved with his family from Dearborn county about a year later, and settled in the 
same township. He was married in the State of New York, and was the father of 
four children, as follows: John M., Mercy A., Betsey and Catharine. By occupation 
he was a farmer. He died in Penn township at the age of seventy-eight years. He 
was a member of the Baptist Church, and an honorable and respected citizen. His 
wife died a few years later, in the ninetieth year of her age. After his marriage 
Adam Miller. Jr., settled in Harris township on a part of the old homestead, after- 
ward moving several times, but principally residing in Penn township. His longest 
residence was on a farm five miles southeast of Misbawaka, where he lived from 1853 
to 1886. He was a substantial farmer and possessed 300 acres of land. Mr. and 
Mrs. Miller were the parents of eight children, as follows: Cyrus, who died at the 
age of three months; Eli; Andrew S., who died at the age of thirteen; Hannah; Lee 
O. ; Julius and Julia, twins, the latter of whom died at the age of three years, and 
Lorenzo, who died in early manhood at the age of twenty-three years. Of these. 



398 PICTORIAL ^LS'D BIOGRAPHICAL 

Hauuah married Alonzo Smyser, and had one child. Harry L. , who is a stockman on 
a cattle ranch in Nebraska. Mrs. Smyser is now married to W. P. Fisher, a 
prominent decorator in Chicago. Dr. Lee O. Miller is a prominent dentist of Three 
Rivers, Mich. He married Clara S. Throp, and has one child, Jasper. He is a 
member of the Christian Chixreh, and Republican in politics. He is successfnl in 
his business, and has been a member of the city council of Three Rivere for some 
years. He is prominent in musical circles of that city. He is ideutitied with the 
K. O. T. M., K P.. Masonic and Good Templar organizations. Of the latter he 
was Grand counselor of his State last year, and now stands at the head of that 
order in Michigan as grand chief templar. Julius is a farmer on Rolling Prairie, 
La Porte countv, lud. He married Millie Ruth, and has two children, Edna and 
Llovd. He is a man of decided convictions, a zealous member of the Christian 
Church, a strong temperance man and a member of the Prohibition party. Lorenzo 
was a farmer, and married Sadie Zeller. and had one chiUl, Ira J. He was a grad- 
uate of the normal school at Valparaiso. Ind., a member of the Christian Church, 
and a young man of tine character. Both Mr. and Mrs. Miller were members of the 
Christian Church, in which Mr. Miller was an elder for some years. Politically he 
was a Democrat until the Fremont campaign, when he joined the Republican party, 
and voted its ticket till 1SS4, when he identified himself with the Prohibition party 
at its organization in Indiana. He was a strong temperance man, and ever took an 
active interest in the cause. He was progressive, a man of decided views, and noted 
for his high character. He enjoyed the confidence and respect of the people. He 
moved to Mishawaka in 1SS5, where he died September Ti. 1S9'2, at nearly the age 
of seventy-four years. 

Eli Miller, son of the above, and the subject of the present sketch, was born 
March 8, IS-iL on his grandfather Millers farm in Harris township, and has passed 
all of his life thus far as a resident of St. Joseph county, where he is now an honored 
citizen. He lirst was taught in the common schools, and then attended the Collegi- 
ate Institute in New Carlisle, in said county, following this with a partial course at 
the N. W. Christian University, now Butler University, at Indianapolis. This was 
siipplemeuted by a course at Eastman's National Business College, at Poughkeepsie, 
N, Y., and one year at Eureka College, in Illinois. During a part of this period, 
and for several years later, he taught in the common schools of the county, and in the 
New Carlisle public school for two years, as one of the principal teachers. He made 
farming a business exclusively till he commenced teaching, and has thus spent the 
time of several vacations since. Since he ceased teaching he has followed the occupation 
of painting and paper hanging through the summer season, and the winter seasons he 
has devoted to music classes and chorus work, and temperance work. In 18(59 Mr. 
Miller joined the order of Good Templars, and at once began to take an active inter- 
est in its success. He has held nearly all the offices in the subordinate lodge, and 
for many terms that of the presiding officer. For several years he presided over the 
Decrree Temple, and has been the district chief templar of his district since the 
adoption of the district-lodge system three years ago. He holds commissions from 
the order's highest officials, and has often been a delegate to his grand lodge. He 
is now filling the office of grand counselor for the fourth term, which is the second 
position in rank, and has tilled the highest office in the grand lodge of his State, 
that of grand chief templar, for six successive terms. Mr. Miller has four times been 
a delegate to the Right Worthy Grand Lodge of Good Templars, in which capacity 
he has visited Chicago, Richmond, Va., and Toronto, Canada. In 1S91 Mr. Miller 
visited Edinburgh, Scotland, as a delegate, at which session delegates were present 
from nearly all the civilized nations of the earth. It was a meeting of great impor- 
tance to the temperance cause, as the order is much the largest temperance organi- 
zation in the world, the most widely spread, and these delegates were among the 
leading workers of these nations, met in God's name to counsel together and plan 
more wisely for the future. In 1882 Mr. Miller began to devote much more of his 



MEMOIRS Of INDIANA. 401 

time to temperance work. For some time he was an executive member of the Grand 
Temperance Council, and S. C. T. U. of Indiana. Since of age he had been a Repub- 
lican in politics, and was a delegate to the party's State convention in 1884, but the 
action of that convention against the constitutional amendment and temperance 
questions caused him, with numerous others, to leave the convention and party. He 
assisted in the organization of the Prohibition party at Indianapolis in 1884, and 
was nominated for auditor of State on its first ticket, and ever since has been prom- 
inently identified with that party. He has been nominated for county office also, 
and in 1892 was nominated asone of the Prohibition candidates for Presidential elector 
in his State. He is the leader of a Prohibition glee club of South Bend, which has 
done eflicient service in the north part of the State. He travels extensively as a 
temperance worker and lecturer for the order, and has devoted many years of his life 
to the temperance work, and is firm in the belief that the good cause will ultimately 
triumph. He is a member of the Christian Church, an honorable man of well-known 
integrity of character and high moral principles, and his life-long residence in St. 
Joseph county, his tireless and arduous labors in the greatcause, render his influence 
for good in the State certain and effective, for here he is be-st known and stands 
deservedly high in the estimation of the people. 

Jonas Fredrick. Like many of the representative citizens of the county Mr. 
Fredrick owes his nativity to the Buckeye State, born in Columbiana county, 
December 15, 1850, and is one of those enterprising, progressive men who have 
selected other pursuits outside the chosen channel of agriculture. He was the 
eldest of seven children born to the marriage of William and Sarah (Anglemyer) 
Fredrick, and the grandson of Michael Fredrick, who was a native of Pennsylvania, 
but one of the earliest settlers of Columbiana county, Ohio. The grandfather was 
a school teacher in his earlier years, but later engaged in farming, which he carried 
on until his death. His wife is still living and well advanced in years. They 
were the parents often children, as follows: John, George, Joseph, William, David, 
Sarah J., and others whose names are forgotten. William Fredrick, the father of 
our subject, was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, and after his school days, 
married Miss Anglemyer, and settled down as a miner in the coal regions. In 1853 
he moved to Hardin county, where he lived until July 5, 1880, when he was killed 
by the explosion of a threshing engine. He was a member of the German Baptist 
Church, and in politics was a Democrat. During the last years of his life he was 
engaged in farming and accumulated a comfortable property. He held a number of 
township offices and was a good citizen, ever ready to advance all worthy enter- 
prises. His wife was a native of Columbiana county, Ohio, born in 1830, and the 
daughter of Jacob Anglemyer. Mrs. Anglemyer died when her daughter was quite 
young, and Mr. Anglemyer married again. Mrs. Fredrick is still living on the 
home farm in Hardin county, Ohio, where the family settled many years ago. She 
is the mother of seven children: Jonas, the subject of this sketch; Harvey, who died 
when four years of age; William, a resident of Hardin county, Ohio; Jessie, resides 
in the same county; Rebecca, wife of Peter Stuckman, resides in Union township, 
Elkhart county; Sarah, deceased; and Alice, who marriedBenton Jones, and resides 
in Menton, Ohio. Jonas Fredrick spent his early life in Hardin county, and was 
well educated in the district schools. He then taught school for some time, and in 
1872 came to Indiana, where he learned the carpenter trade at which he still con- 
tinues to work. However, agricultural pursuits have been his chief occupation, and 
the advanced manner in which he has seized every idea or principle tending to the 
enhanced value of his property has had considerable to do with his success in life. 
On December 3, 1874, he married Miss Lydia, daughter of John Anglemyer, and 
then settled on the farm where he now lives. This farm then consisted of eighty 
acres, all but ten acres being in the woods, and by industry and perseverance he has 
added to the original tract until he is now the owner of 120 acres, all cleared but 
about ten acres. His marriage resulted in the birth of eight children, all at home, 

24 



403 PICTORIAL AND BIOQRAPHIVAL 

as follows: Judie, Charles, John, Jessie, Harvey, Edith, Anna and Fannie. Mr. 
and Mrs. Fredrick hold membership in the German Baptist Church, and he is a 
deacon in the same. Mr. Fredrick is not a partisan in politics but is a public- 
spirited man, and one deeply interested in the progress and improvement of the 
country. He has held office iu the township and is a most worthy citizen. 

Christian Stodder is a well-to-do and prominent farmer located in Union town- 
ship, this county, where he was born April 14, 1845. He was one of four children, 
only two now living, Mrs. Neff and himself, born to the marriage of Christian and 
Mary (Miller) Stouder. The mother of our subject had been married previously to 
a Mr. Bright, and bore him five children, as follows: George W. ; David M., resid- 
ing in Michigan; John (deceased); William, residing in Kansas, and Mary, Mrs. 
Bradner, now of Union township, this county. During his youthful days our sub- 
ject divided his time between the duties on the farm and the duties in the school- 
room, receiving his education during the winter months. When about sixteen years 
of age he left home and began working a farm by the month. When twenty years 
of age he came in possession of a farm of eighty acres near Nappanee, and this he 
owned six or seven years, when he sold out and bought the place were he now lives. 
At the present time he has 124 acres of good land, well improved and with many 
improvements. When twenty-two years of age he married Miss Elizabeth Hohbein, 
a native of the Buckeye State, born September 20, 1853, and the daughter of Adam 
Hohbein. Mr. Hohbein was born in Germany, and was one of two children born to 
his parents. He was crippled when a small boy and as a consequence was not 
obliged to serve in the German army. He was married in the old country to Miss 
Catherine Horn, and shortly afterward crossed the ocean to America, settling in 
Mahoning county, Ohio. In 1865 they moved to Indiana, and there Mr. Hohbein has 
since followed the trade of tailor. He and wife are still living in Union township, 
and are consistent members of the German Enform Church. They have had ten 
children, of whom but four are living: Elizabeth (deceased), was the wife of Mr. 
Stouder; Hannah, the widow of John Umbaugb, resides in Union township; Louisa, 

married Wise, and resides on the home place; Martha, wife of William Um- 

baugh, resides in Union township; Christian, and a brother are deceased; Sarah, 
died in this State, was the wife of Jacob Wise; Peggie A., died in Ohio, and two 
other children died young. Mrs. Stouder was a child of thirteen years when her 
parents came to Indiana. She became a member of the German Baptist Church, 
and died in 1875, leaving one child, Emma C, now deceased, who was born in 1868. 
Mr. Stouder selected his second wife in the sister of his first wife, Catherine Hoh- 
bein, who was born in Ohio, April 6, 1853, and who became the mother of five chil- 
dren: Alviua, who was born October 23, 1873, and died three years later; Lydia, 
born October 14, 1875, died at the age of two years; William H. , born December 
23, 1877, is now at home assisting on the farm; David T., born November 27, 1879, 
and Mary E., who was born and died in 1881. Mr. Stouder and his wife are both 
members of the German Baptist Church, and in politics Mr. Stouder is a Democrat. 
His two sons are still attending public school, and he intends to give them each a 
good education. On his fine and well-located farm Mr. Stouder is engaged in gen- 
eral farming, and is surrounded by all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. 
His propertj' is the result of hard work and perseverance. He inherited land from 
his parents, and after settling this embarked in the saw-mill business. He was 
quite unfortunate at one time, for his mill was destroyed by fire, but in spite of all 
this he managed to make some money, and in 1870 bought the fine farm where he 
lives. He has added to the original tract, and improved it in so many ways that no 
better place is to be found in the county. 

Samuel C. Neff is one of the oldest native-born residents of Elkhart county, in 
which he now resides. He is a member of a family whose history was identified 
with the State in days of earlier and simpler style of living. He was born near 
Bristol, April 2, 1839, and was the youngest but one of a family of eleven children. 



MEMOIHS OF INDIANA. 403 

five sons and four daughters living, born to the marriage of Henry and Anna 
(France) Neff, both natives of Virginia, and descendants of old Virginia stock. 
Henry NefP was born in Franklin county, that State, and was a son of Isaac Neff, 
who was also a native of the Old Dominion. Henry NefF's wife, Annie France, 
was a daughter of Christian France, and like himself, was of German origin. After 
marriage they moved from Virginia to Ohio, thence to Elkhart county, Ind., in 1834, 
settling on a farm near Bristol. About the year 1841 the family moved to Jackson 
township, this county, settled on a farm now owned bj' the youngest son, and there 
the father and mother died, the former at the age of seventy and the latter when 
eighty-three years of age. The father and mother were lifelong members of the 
German Baptist Church and among its most prominent and influential members. 
He was a man of resolute character, and of more than ordinary intelligence. His 
children were named as follows: Isaac, died in Kansas; Mary, married John Stud- 
ebaker (cousin of the large manufacturers of South Bend), and is living in Mont- 
gomery county, 111.; Elizabeth, wife of Adam Leutz, died in Illinois; Daniel; 
Susan, wife of Levi Arnold; JohnF., Henry, Samuel C. (subject), and William, who 
resides on the home place in Jackson township. Mr. Neff had very little means 
when he came to Elkhart county, but by honesty and hard work accumulated a com- 
fortable fortune. Samuel C. Neff was born in the northern part of the county, but 
when a child moved with his parents to Jackson township, where he grew to man- 
hood. Although his schooling was limited to the winter months, he secured a good 
education, and after assisting on the farm until twenty-one years of age, started out 
to battle his own way in life. His father gave him a farm in Marshall county, this 
State, but this he sold in 1870, and bought the farm on which he has lived ever 
since. During this time, April 2, 1863, he married Miss Lydia Stouder, who, like 
himself, was a native of Elkhart county, born July 19, 1843. Her parents. Christian 
and Mary Stouder, were among the early pioneers of the county, and of the five 
children born to them two are still living: Lydia and Christian; Samuel, Lucinda 
and Lovina are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Neff have lived in this part of the county 
a number of years, and nine children were born to them; two are deceased. Calvin and 
Marvin. Seven are living, as are also six grandchildren; four of the children are 
married: Mary A., wife of Mr. Levi Pippinger, and has three children; Anna, married 
Mr. William Birkholder, and has one child; Christian, married Miss Minnie Smith, 
and has one child, and Deliline, married Mr. Enos Missler, and they have one child. 
The unmarried children are at home. Samuel C. Neff and wife are members of the 
German Baptist Church, and Mr. Neff is deeply interested in church and school 
work, as well as everything tending toward the upbuilding of the county. He is 
one of the largest landholders in this part of the county, owning about five hundred 
and fifteen acres in Union township and a quarter section in Locke township. All 
his property has been accumulated by the honest sweat of his brow, and he merits the 
respect and confidence of all for his industry and good management. In connection 
with farming he is also engaged in stockraising, and is meeting with good success. 
His elder children are living on his various farms, and the younger are at home. 

George Arnold. Mr. Arnold, furniture dealer and manufacturer, isone of the fore- 
most business men of Nappanee, and at all times keeps a well-selected and extensive 
assortment of medium and the finest grades of goods. As in every thing else so in 
furniture it always pays to keep the best, and the establishment of Mr. Arnold has 
gained an excellent reputation for just methods. This gentleman was born in Stark 
county, Ohio, December 24, 1839, and was the seventh in order of birth of nine chil- 
dren born to Reuben and Mary (Harman) Arnold, both natives of Pennsylvania, the 
father born November 7, 1799, and the mother May 10, 1805. The Arnold family 
came originally from England and is remotely connected to Benedict Arnold of 
Revolutionary fame. Our subject's maternal grandfather, George Harman, was a 
soldier of the War of 1812, was wounded in a battle with the Indians and remained 
a cripple for life. The Harmans, for the most part, were prosperous people and 



404 PICTORIAL A^'^D BIOGMAPIIIOAL 

many of them were quite wealthy. The parents of our subject, with three children, 
Sarah, Daniel and Angeline, moved from the Keystone State to Stark county, Ohio, 
at an early day, and there sis more children were born: Catherine, Reuben, George, 

Samuel, Mary and . The father settled on a farm and in connection with tilling 

the soil followed the wagon maker's trade for a number of years. He enjoyed con- 
siderable prominence as a musician and was a fifer and drummer in the militia 
forces of Pennsylvania. In politics he was a Democrat and in religion held strictly 
to the Lutheran faith, being deeply interested in church work. He made consider- 
able property, but never became rich, and died on his farm in 1857. The children 
except one are all living, one in Ohio, four in Michigan, two in Elkhart county, Ind., 
and one in Washington county. Ark. After the death of her husband the mother 
went to live with her eldest son in Michigan and there her death occurred in 1879. 
She was also a member of the Lutheran Church, a true Christian in every sense of 
the word, and one who suifered many trials and hardships. Like the majority of 
country boys the youthful days of our subject was passed in the school-room and in 
assisting his father on the farm. When eighteen years of age he began learning 
the carpenter's trade and followed this until twenty-one years of age, when he emi- 
grated to Cass county, Mich. After remaining there one year he returned to Ohio 
and at the end of another year enlisted in the United States army as mechanic, being 
stationed at Washington D. C. about two years. From there he came to Indiana, 
settled in South Bend, and there worked at his trade until 1867, when he went to 
Michigan. He was there married to Miss Catherine O. Britton, a native of Cass 
county, Mich., born October 9, 18-4-1, and the daughter of Thomas and Arrilla Brit- 
ten. Mr. Britton was a native New Yorker and an early pioneer of Cass county, 
Mich. He settled there a poor boy and by industry and good management amassed 
considerable wealth. His death occurred in 1868. The mother had died when Mrs. 
Arnold was but two years of age. The latter was one of three daughters: Anna, 
Catherine and Leuna, and was reared and educated in her native county, making 
her home with strangers until her marriage, her father remaining a widower. Mr. 
and Mrs. Arnold are church members and are active in all good work. Mr. Arnold 
has held a number of public offices, was justice of the peace for some time and at 
present is president of the city council. He takes a deep interest in everything per- 
taining to the welfare of the town and county and gives liberally of his means to 
further all worthy enterprises. He resides in the First Ward and has a pleasant and 
attractive home. Mr. Arnold has retired from the furniture business and intends 
to take up contracting and building again. He never was very extensively engaged 
in the furniture business. He did a great deal of building in this place prior to 
1889, but at that date met with a serious accident in the collapse of a brick building, 
after which he went into the furniture business. 

Benjamin F. Price, undertaker of South Bend, Ind. There is probably no 
business in which the march of progress has made such wonderful advancement 
during the past fifty years as that of undertaking, for from a mere trade it has 
become a dignified profession, and it exacts from its followers not only a thorough 
business training, but a scientific knowledge of a high character. One of the leading 
establishments of South Bend, Ind., is that owned and conducted by Benjamin F. 
Price, who has a comfortably and decorously furnished house, in which he carries a 
full line of caskets and coffins of elegant design, tbough not necessarily expensive, 
and general funeral furnishings. All work is executed in the most expeditious 
manner, and everything is done that human hands can do to lessen the distress and 
alleviate the anxiety of relatives, while Mr. Price is at all times moderate in his 
charges. The business was established in 1832 by Benjamin F. Price, Sr., under- 
taker and cabinet maker, who was born in Union county, Penn., in October, 1807, 
where his boyhood days were spent in laboring on his father's farm. He was 
apprenticed to the cabinet maker's trade under a man named Eoberts, and while a 
lesident of his native State he followed that occupation, in which he acquired re- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 405 

markable skill. He was married in his own county to Lucinda ^Yelch and in 1832 
came with her and his eldest child, Charles W., to St. Joseph county, Ind., the entire 
distance to South Bend being made in a one-horse wagon. Mr. Price commenced 
at once to work at his trade, and in connection with furniture also conducted an 
undertaking business, being the first one to open such an establishment in the 
county. He continued this business until the town was large enough to support an 
exclusive undertaking establishment, when he began devoting his attention to this 
business alone and continued it until his death in October, 1887, since which time 
the business has been ably conducted by his son and namesake Benjamin F. Price, 
Jr., who for more than twenty years had been associated in business with his father. 
Mr. Price was one of the pioneer business men of South Bend and naturally contribut- 
ed much toward its advancement and development. He was one of the first trustees of 
the town, was a member of the board of health, and at the time of his death at the 
advanced age of eighty-one years, he was a director of the South Bend National 
Bank. He was an active member of the I. O. O. F., and at the time the building for 
that society was erected, he was appointed superintendent of construction. It was 
erected by a stock company of members of the order and Mr. Price was among them. 
The lodge has since come into possession of the building. Mrs. Price was called 
from this life in 1859, after having become the mother of seven children: Charles 
W. , John B. , Mary E. and Edward deceased, and Clara E., Sarah H. and Benja- 
min F. living. During the Civil war Charles W. enlisted as captain of Companj' 
C, Seventy-third Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in 1861, and served two years. He was 
wounded in one of the engagements in which his company participated and returned 
home on furlough. After recovering he rejoined his company at Indianapolis where 
he was killed in 1863 by a large timber falling upon him, the company at that time 
doing guard duty. Benjamin F. Price, Jr., was born in South Bend December 12, 
1850, and in that town was reared and educated and has continued to reside. He 
entered the employ of his father when young, and may be said to have grown up in 
the business. He thoroughly understands every detail, and at the demise of his 
father was eminently capable of taking upon his own shoulders the duties of the 
business. His is tlie leading, oldest and most popular concern of the city, and the 
reputation of the house for honesty and upright dealing has remained untarnished 
during the long term of years that the business has been established. Mr. Price is 
one of the popular business men of the town and has hosts of friends. He was 
twice married, his first wife was Miss Georgia Walterhouse, a native of South Bend, 
and a daughter of Jesse and Elizabeth (Holland) Walterhouse. natives of the State 
of New York. Two interesting and promising children, Jessie E. and Mary E. were 
bom to them. Mr. Price was again married on January 9, 1884, to Miss Maggie 
Fagan, of St. Joseph, Mich. Mr. Price, like his estimable father before him, is a 
member of the I. O. O. F., also belongs to the Maccabees and is a Republican politic- 
ally, the measures of which he at all times supports, as did also his father. 

Henry Weis, Mishawaka, Ind. The subject of this notice is one of the prominent 
farmers of Penn township. He is the son of Christian Weis, a prominent pioneer and 
honored citizen of Penn township, who was born in Switzerland in 1803, received a 
common-school education and was reared to agricultural life. He came to America 
when a young man, first settled in Stark county, Ohio, and married there, his wife 
being Annie Heim, daughter of Christian Heim. To Mr. and Mrs. Christian Weis 
were born ten children, all of whom lived to be grown. Mr. Weis remained in Stark 
county some years, subsequently removing to Marshall county, Ind. , where he cleared 
up a farm and was one of the pioneers. In 1846 he came to St. Joseph county and 
settled one mile west of Mishawaka, where our subject now lives. Here he bought 
eighty acres of land, cleared it up, sold it and moved to the farm now occupied by 
William Weis, where he became the owner of 200 acres of fine farming land. A 
small portion of this was already cleared when he came to it; the remainder he 
cleared. The names of his children were: Christian, Annie, Ullery, Elizabeth, 



406 PICTOnniL ^LXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

Peter, John, Henry, Mary, Joseph and William. Mr. Weis was a prominent mem- 
ber of the Evangelical Chnrch and hold the offices of trustee, steward and class- 
leader. He was one of the founders of this chnrch in Penu township and assisted 
to build the church in his neighborhood. Politically he was a stanch Democrat. 
He was a hard working, industrious man, much respected by all, and brought up a 
fine family of children, all of them doing well. He was well known as one who had 
materially assisted in the development of St. Joseph county and belonged to those 
who are a credit to their native country and to their adopted one. Henry Weis, our 
subject, was born February 27, 1S46, in Mar.shall county, near Bremen, on a farm, 
and was brought up among the pioneers, receiving only the education which was to 
be obtained in the log school-hoiise of the neighborhood. He was but an infant when 
he was brought by his parents to Penn township, learned early to work and did his 
dutv at his home on the farm until he was twenty-seven years of age. On Novem- 
ber 10, 1875, he married Eliza Beyler, born February 13, 1849, a daughter of George 
and Rebecca (Lehr) Beyler. Mr. Beyler came from Alsace when a young man and 
married in Stark county, Ohio. By trade he was a shoemaker. He moved to Mar- 
shall county, Ind., becoming one of the tirst settlers at Bremen, locating there in 
1S39. His children were; Samuel, who died in infancy; Eliza, who died at the age 
of three years; Catherine, who passed away at the age of four years; Jacob; Mary 
A., who died when forty live years old; Eliza: John; and Sarah, who died at the age 
of thirty three. Mr. and Mrs. Beyler were members of the Evangelical Church, he 
being one of the founders of the Church at Bremen, and tilling all of the offices 
of prominence in that body. He was a hard-working, industrious man, and at hia 
death he left a handsome property, among which was some valuable timber land. 
He died at Bremen, at the age of seventy years, a man of honorable character and 
a pioneer citizen. Henry Weis and wife, after marriage, settled on a part of the old 
homestead, where they have lived ever since. In 1882 Mr. Weis built a substantial 
brick house and has good improvements. He has, l)y industry and thrift, accumu- 
lated property until he owns two hundred acres of land and thirty-eight acres of 
timber land in Madison township. To Mr. and Mrs. Weis have been born eight 
children, as follows: Marv A., born October 15, 1876; George J., born September 
26, 1878; Alva M., born j'uly 13, 1881; Clement, born October 14, 1882; John O., 
born November 16, 1884; Henry E., born November 15, 1886; Bertha R., born Jan- 
uary 30, 1890, and Elmer E., born October, 1891. Mr. and Mrs. Weis are members 
of the Evangelical Church and Mr. Weis has assisted materially in the support of 
the church, takes an active interest in having good schools in his community and has 
served as school director. In politics he is a Republican. The Weis children have 
descended on both sides from the best of pioneer stock and have a right to take an 
honest pride in the sterling qualities of their ancestors. 

Solomon J. Strtcker, one of the foremost farmers of Union township, Elkhart 
county, Ind., was born May 25, 1847, and is the only son of Christian and Mattie 
(Stump) Stryeker, both natives of Canada, the former born in 1817 and the latter 
in 1818. When a young man the father came to Indiana, settled in Union town- 
ship, and bought 160 acres of land. Being a single man he boarded with John 
Burkholder, his nearest neighbor, and cleared five acres of land on which he erected 
a log cabin. After marriage he cleared up his farm and passed through all the 
hardships of pioneer days, but was very successful as an agriculturist. Later he 
bought more land, and sold eighty acres of the farm he had bought to his son-in- 
law. He and his brother, Jacob, bought the first threshing machine in the township. 
On the farm where he had passed the best years of his life his death occurred May 
11, 1887, and no man was better respected or more highly esteemed. In religion 
he was a German Baptist, and in politics a Democrat. Mrs. Stryeker was a young 
lady when her parents, Solomon and Anna (Burkholder) Stump, moved to Elkhart 
county and settled in Union township. There both passed the remainder of their 
days. Mrs. Stryeker has one brother living in the township. She was married to 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. AST! 

Mr. Strycker on March 3, 1842, and became the mother of five children: Anna, bom 
November 18, 1844, and died at the age of eighteen months; Mariah, born January 
16, 1845, married Isaiah Rummel, and now resides in Union township; Solomon J. ; 
Elizabeth, born January 28, 1850, married, but is now deceased; and Sarah, bom 
March 3. 1854, is at home. Mrs. Strycker is still living, is seventy years of age, 
and is a member of the German Baptist Church. Solomon J. was bom on the farm 
where he now lives, and received his scholastic training in the old log school-house. 
When twenty-three years of age he was married to Miss Isabel Skinner, who was 
born November 17, 1854, and who was the daughter of Ephraim and Mary (^Blackj 
Skinner, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively. Mr. Skinner was a pioneer 
settler of Noble county, Ind., and died in 1882, when seventy years of age. Mrs. 
Skinner's father, John Black, was a pioneer settler of Elkhart county and a prom- 
inent citizen of the same. She is still living and was the mother of twelve children. 
Mr. and Mrs. Strycker were married in 1870, and four children have blessed this 
union: Ephraim. born April 15. 1871, married September 15, 1892, to Miss Ida 
M. Walters, of Union township, where he now lives: Mary A., born April 20, 1873, 
married Daniel B. Stouder, and resides on a farm in Union township; Elizabeth, 
born March 11, 1877, died March 25, of the same year; and William H. , born July 
3, 1879. Mr. and Mrs. Strycker are members of the German Baptist Church, and 
he is a deacon in the same. He has one of the best improved farms in this part of 
the county, and has been very successful as a stockraiser. In his political affilia- 
tions he is a Democrat. He is one among the Ijest citizens of the county, and is 
active in his support of all worthy enterprises. Mr. and Mrs. Strycker have taken 
a little girl to raise, Emma M. Stouder, who was born September 5, 1885. 

Gex. Benjamin Haeeisos, ex- President of the United States, is a grandson of 
the famous hero of Tippecanoe, Gen. William Henry Harrison, the ninth President 
of the United States. His birth occurrpd at North Bend, Ohio, August 20, 1833, 
and his early education was acquired under the tutelage of a private instructor. At 
fourteen years of age he was sent to Gary's Academy, near Cincinnati, where he 
remained two years, then entered Miami University, at Oxford, which graduated him 
in 1852. Having a predilection for legal pursuits he became a disciple of Black- 
stone at Cincinnati, and early in 1854 located for the practice of his profession at 
Indianapolis. Early in his professional career Mr. Harri.son e.xhibited to a marked 
degree those characteristics which afterward made him famous as a great lawyer, 
and it was not long until he found himself the possessor of a large and fairly lucra- 
tive practice. In the fall of 1 860 he was elected reporter of the supreme court of the 
State, and during his incumbency of this office published volumes XV and XYI of 
State Reports. The war coming on, Mr. Harrison deemed that his country's wel- 
fare should become his first consideration, and accordingly resigning from his 
lucrative position he recruited Company A, of the Seventieth Regiment of Indiana 
Infantry and immediately went into active service. He remained in the service of 
the Government until the close of the war, when he was mustered out as brevet 
brigadier general. Returning home he resumed legal pursuits. In 1876 he was 
the unanimous choice of the Republicans for governor of Indiana, but was defeated 
at the polls. After this (from 1881 to 1887) he was a United States senator and 
became one of the most conspicuous figures in the Nation. In 1888 he was nomi- 
nated Ijy the National Republican Convention, at Chicago, for the Presidency of the 
United States. During the campaign he made numerous addresses, and although 
he had a vigilant enemy to combat, ready to distort or misconstrue his utterances, 
he did so remarkably well that not a single point was raised against him. His four 
years of administration marked an era of prosperity for the country, and at the 
National Convention of 1892 held at Minneapolis, he was re-nominated on the first 
ballot. At the succeeding election he was defeated for a second term by Mr. Cleve- 
land. Mr. Harrison and family are devout members of the Presbyterian Church. 
In 1853 he married Miss Carrie L. Scott, by whom be is the father of two children. 



408 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Brown Bros. The industries of Nappanee are principally of an important char- 
acter, ably and successfully carried on, the products being such as to have secured 
for this western town a reputation of which any might well be proud. Prominent 
among the successful business men of this town are the Brown Bros., dealers in 
agricultural implements, wagons, buggies, wind-mills, buckeye binders and mowers. 
They have been in business here since March 1, 1889, and from the first their trade 
in the above lines has been good, and on the increase right along from the time they 
opened up in Nappanee. The individual members of this firm, John W. and Charles 
H. Brown, are part and parcel of Elkhart county, both being born and reared therein 
within five or six miles of Nappanee, and educated in all the workings of the farm 
and the use of all kinds of modern farming implements. In the sale of wagons their 
greatest trade is with the old-time and justly celebrated Studebaker wagon, which 
has kept its place in the front rank. Their sales of the Oliver Chilled plow has met 
with the same success as their efforts with the Studebaker wagon, and their sales 
last year were $10,000 greater than those of the year before. The indications 
now are that this year's efforts will show a corresponding increase over last year's 
very big sales. The Buckeye harvesting machines and the Reeves straw stacker 
are being handled by this firm, all of which are growing in popularity every season. 
The New Birdaell Clover HuUer, manufactured at South Bend, is meeting with 
deserved favor by the farmers of this section, and the success of the Brown Bros, 
in handling this useful farming implement has been very gratifying from their 
first introduction here. These brothers are the sons of Jacob Brown, Jr., and 
Sarah J. (Richcreek) Brown, and the grandsons of Jacob Brown, Sr. , and Lydia 
(Smith) Brown. The grandfather was a native of Pennsylvania, born in Summerset 
county in 1801, and the son of James Brown, who was a native of this country but of 
German parentage. In the year 1803 James Brown moved with his family to 
Canada, settled in the neighborhood of Toronto and there followed farming. There 
Jacob Brown grew to manhood and married, and there most of his children were born, 
only three having been born after he came to this country. About 1839 Jacob 
Brown and family emigrated to Indiana and settled in Union township, Elkhart 
county, on the farm now owned by bis sons, James and Jacob. He was one of the 
pioneers of the county and bought 160 acres, which was all in the woods. He cut 
the first timber on this place and spent many years in improving and developing the 
same. He made the trip from Canada with wagon and team, but had his goods 
shipped by water. When he came to this county he had considerable means, having 
owned a good farm in Canada, and he soon became one of the successful and pros- 
perous farmers of Elkhart county. He was a member of the Mennonite Church, and 
in politics was a Democrat. An honorable, upright citizen, he held many township 
offices and was supervisor for some time. He lived to he quite an aged man, dying 
in 1885, at the age of eighty-two years. His wife was a native of Pennsylvania, 

born in 1800, and was probably a child when taken by her parents, John and 

(Stump) Smith, to Canada. To Mr. and Mrs. Brown were born eight children, five 
of whom are still living and all in Elkhart county, two in Union, two in Jackson 
and one in Harrison township. Mrs. Brown was a member of the German Baptist 
Church, was much interested in church work, and died on the old home place in 
Union township in 1885. The children were named as follows: John, a native of 
Canada, born in 1827, was a boy of fourteen years when the family came to this 
county and is now a farmer of Harrison township and a man of a family: James, 
resides in Union township; Susan, born in Canada, died in Elkhart county when 
eighteen years of age; Jacob, Jr. (father of subjects); Lydia, now the wife of Daniel 
Neff, a farmer of Jackson township; Elizabeth, now the wife of Henry Neff, a farmer 
of Jackson township; Sarah, married Moses Whitehead and after his death married 
B. R. Graves; she is now deceased; Matilda, died at the age of seven years. Jacob 
Brown, Jr., father of Brown Bros., was born in Canada, December 13, 1834, and 
when about four years of age was brought by his parents to Elkhart county, Ind. 



ME3I0IRS OF INDIANA. 409 

His youthful days were passed on the old home place in Union township and his 
education was received in the district school. Like most of the country boys he 
attended school during the winter months, but when summer approached he 
assisted his father on the farm. When twenty-one years of age he started out for 
himself and soon after married Miss Sarah J. Richcreek, a native of Elkhart county, 
Union township, born September 7, 1837. She was a daughter of Charles H. and 
A. (Elsea) Richcreek and the granddaughter of Charles Richcreek. The Richcreek 
family emigrated to this county in 1844 and settled in Jackson township, where the 
father carried on farming. He was an industrious, hard-working man and one highly 
esteemed for his many estimable qualities of mind and heart. He was born in Virginia, 
in 1808, and died at the age of sixty-nine, in 1877. His wife was also a native of 
Virginia and was born in 1810. Both held membership in the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and in politics Mr. Richcreek was a Republican. His children were named 
as follows: John S., who died in 1865, was married and lived in Kosciusko 
county; Angeline, who died in 1891, was the wife of Jacob Broumbaugh and was 
the mother of three children: William, married and resides at Webster, Kosciusko 
county; Sarah J. (Mrs. Brown): Harriet, wife of William Foose, resides in Nebraska; 
and Charles, who died at the age of eighteen years. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. 
Brown settled on a farm of eighty acres and on this they have since resided. In 
politics he has ever been a warm supporter of the Democratic party and takes a deep 
interest in political affairs. He was trustee of the township in 1861 and 1862, and 
he has also held the office of justice of the peace and supervisor. All his interests 
are centered in and around Elkhart county and he is a man whose excellent judg- 
ment and sound good sense would find him friends in any community. To his marriage 
have been born sis children as follows: Alice C., born February 1, 1856, married 
Jacob Kirkdaffer, of Washington township, this county, and they have twelve chil- 
dren: Charles, Jacob, Michael, Melvin, Picher, Lydia, Alice, Sarah, Vernon, Frank, 
Eddie and Anna. The next child born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown was Lydia A., whose 
birth occurred April 27, 1858. She married Joseph Stump and they have three 
children: Delia, Luella and Arvilla. John W. Brown was born December 29, 1860, 
and is a member of the firm of Brown Bros.; Charles H, born September 1, 1863, 
is also a member of the firm; Sarah C, born December 4, 1867, is still at home; 
Jacob F. , born December 8. 1878, is at home assisting on the farm. The son, John 
W. Brown, was reared on his father's farm in Union township and secured a good 
practical education in the common schools. When twenty-three years of age he 
started a small store at Gravelton, Kosciusko county, where he remained a few years 
and where he was appointed postmaster, holding that position for four years. He 
increased his stock from year to year until 1889, when he sold out and moved to Nap- 
panee and embarked in the implement business in company with his brother, Charles 
H. The first year they did a business of 115,000, the next year S28,000, and in 1891 
$34,000, making a good business. They are the leaders in their line in this part 
of the county. John W. Brown was married in 1882 to Miss Lizzie Broumbaugh, 
daughter of David M. Broumbaugh (see sketch). Mrs. Brown was born in 1861 and 
was reared on her father's farm in Jefferson township, Kosciusko county. Two 
children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown: Hettie, born May 18, 1883, and 
died when sixteen months old, and Eva, born November 26, 1886. Mr. Brown and 
family reside in their own home in Nappaiiee and are well respected in the town. 
Both are members of the German Baptist Church. As a business man Mr. Brown 
has few equals and as a citizen and neighbor he is well liked. In politics he is a 
Democrat. Charles H. Brown, the junior member of the firm of Brown Bros., was 
born September 11, 1863, and. like his brother, his early days were passed in assist- 
ing on the farm. In the district schools he obtained a fair education and he con- 
tinued under the parental roof until 1890, when he became a member of the firm of 
Brown Bros. Since that time he has been actively engaged in the implement busi- 
ness in Nappanee and has met with unusual success, being a man possessed of more 



410 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

than ordinary business acumen. Like his father and brother, he espouses the prin- 
ciples of the Democratic partj\ and is a warm supporter of its platform. He was 
married on the 15th of November, 1889, to Miss Etta J. Broumbaugh, daughter of 
David M. Broumbaugh, and a sister of his brother John's wife. She was born March 
8, 1865, and passed her girlhood days on the old farm. One child, a son, has been 
born to this union but is yet unnamed. This young couple have a nice, cozy 
home in Nappanee and take a deep interest in all the worthy enterprises of the town. 
Philip B. Booxe is a retired farmer now residing in the city of South Bend, in 
the enjoyment of a comfortable competency acquired in earlier years by industry 
and good management, and the society of numerous friends, whom his correct mode 
of living has gathered about him. He is a product of Wayne county, lod., for 
there he first saw the light of day on the 27th of May, 1822, his parents being Ovid 
and Ruth (Baltimore) Boone, the former a native of the Blue Grass State and the 
latter of Ohio. Ovid Boone was born in the vicinity of Lexington, his parents 
being honest tillers of the soil. He removed to Wayne county, Ind., with his par- 
ents, and there he was married and became a successful agriculturist. After many 
years he settled in Madison county, lod., where his death occurred about the year 
1835. He had a brother who was a soldier in the War of 1812. and was killed at 
the battle of Lexington. Ky. To Ovid Boone aud his wife the following children 
were born: Perry, Philip B., Charlotte, Mary M., James W. and Susan. After 
the death of the husband and father, his widow was married to John Maguire to 
whom she presented three children: Joseph, Malinda and Morris. The mother of 
these children was called from this life about the 1st of July, 1862. When Philip 
B. Boone was about seven years of age he went to Madison county, Ind., with his 
parents, where he grew up ou a farm, receiving the advantages of the country 
schools near his rural home. Owing to the early deatli of his father he learned to 
depend upon himself when a mere lad, and at the age of sixteen years began to 
work for himself on a farm, for with that calling he was thoroughly familiar. Since 
1S44 he has been a resident of St. Joseph county, and upon taking up his residence 
in German township, he purchased 110 acres of land and at once began to prepare 
it for cultivation. He tilled this land successfully for many years and showed him- 
self to be a man of sound views in every thing conuected with farming, and all his 
efforts were prospered. About the year 1881 he retired from active business pur- 
suits and took up his residence in South Bend, where he is still residing, surrounded 
by numerous warm personal friends. He was married in German township Novem- 
ber 30, 1846, to Miss Susan Miller, who was born in Wayne county, Ind., January 
11, 1829, and soon after their marriage they settled on the above mentioned farm, 
which at that time was solely improved by a little log cabin. As their circumstances 
improved this gave way to a better habitation, and upon leaving the farm they were 
very comfortably situated. On that farm thev reared the following children: James 
A., Daniel W., Alwilda E., Elizabeth A., Schuyler C, William T. and David E. 
While a resident of German township Mr. Boone served in the capacity of justice 
of the peace for four years and township trustee three years. In politics he has ever 
been a staunch Republican and has always labored for the good of that party. He 
is a member of that worthy society, the I. O. O. F., and he and his wife are mem- 
bers in good standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Boone is a daugh- 
ter of David and Sarah (Hardman) Miller, natives respectively of Virginia and Ken- 
tucky. Mr. and Mrs. Miller were married in Wayne county, Ind., andinlS31 came 
to St. Joseph county settling in German township, of which they were among the 
very first settlers. He became the owner of 160 acres of land on Portage Prairie 
and underwent the hardships and privations attendant upon pioneer life. The 
Indians were numerous at that time and in the anticipation of trouble with them a 
fort was erected ou the Miller homestead, which stood for several years afterward as 
a monument to hostilities experienced by the pioneer settlers of the county from 
the red man. Mr. Miller died in the fall of 1843, a fact universally regretted, and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 411 

his widow was called from life on the 5th of June, 1849. They were upright and 
respected people and useful and progressive citizens — a blessing to the new county 
in which they settled. 

Edwin C. Laidlaw, Mishawaka, Ind. One of the substantial farmers of Penn 
township, is the gentleman of whom this sketch is written. His father, John Laid- 
law, was one of the pioneers of St. Joseph county, born January 5, 1812, at Blains- 
ley, near Edinburgh. Scotland. He was a son of John Laidlaw, Sr. , who came to 
America in ISIS aud settled at Edwards, St. Lawrence Co., N.Y., where he engaged in 
farming. Bj' trade he was a stonemason, and in his native country did an extensive 
business. He married Susan Smith and became the father of thirteen children, the 
record of whom is as follows: The eldest died unmarried; Thomas married Eliza 
Blood, and they were the parents of live children (he became a farmer of St. Law- 
rence county, N. Y.); Alexander came to Indiana from New York and died at the 
home of his brother John, unmarried; Isabel married James Noble, and they had a 
large family of ten children, aud resided in St. Lawrence county, N. Y. ; John, 
father of subject; David married Jane Newton, had a family of three children and 
resides in St. Lawrence country, N. Y. : Mary married Austin Clark, had a family of 
live children, aud they reside at Russell, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. ; Martha married 
Mr. Green, has two children and resides in Minnesota; Franklin married Miss F. 
Buck, has three children and resides in Iowa; William; Ann, who married and re- 
sides in Canton, N. Y., and Edward. John Laidlaw, our subject's father, remained 
in St. Lawrence county N. Y., and Canada until he was twenty-one years of age, but 
in 1836 he came to St. Joseph county, Ind., and purchased a quarter section of 
laud in Madison township, which he afterward sold. He had the advantages of a 
common-school education, and when a young man of eighteen or nineteen engaged 
in logging in Canada for two years, then came to Indiana and entered his land in 
St. Joseph county. He then worked on the mill race on the the north side of Mish- 
awaka, and also assisted in getting out iron ore for the Mishawaka Iron Furnace. 
Following this occupation, in company with Elias Cook, he contracted to burn char- 
coal for the iron company, and bought eightj' acres of land where his present farm 
now is, and this was covered with heavy timber. Here he erected a log cabin near the 
present homestead and partly cleared his eighty acres, and by thrift and hard 
work was enabled to buy more land, so continuing until he was the owner of 
500 acres in one body and 120 in another. The Indians had not yet left 
the country when Mr. Laidlaw settled on his land; wild game abounded, 
wolves were numerous and neighbors were few and far between. Among them were 
Elias Cook, the Eutzlers, Hollingsheads and Hezekiah Dixon. The chief employ- 
ment in this section of the country was chopping and clearing away the timber and 
burning charcoal, and the smoke from the coal pits of the settlers was to be seen 
in every direction, as all were preparing charcoal for the smelting pits of Mishawaka. 
Mr. Laidlaw married Sally, daughter of Benjamin Shaw, a farmer of Kosciusko 
county. To Mr. and Mrs. Laidlaw were born twelve children, viz. : Susan, who mar- 
ried John Dixon, of Mishawaka; Benjamin, who died in infancy; Lydia, who mar- 
ried Robert Martin; Edwin C, our subject, who married Harrieta Pulling; Alex- 
ander, who married Elizabeth Burroughs: Silas, who was killed at the age of seven- 
teen years; Caroline S., who married William Herrick; Jane, who married John 
Holliday; Mary, who married William Harling; Ella, Emma and John W. Mr. 
Laidlaw was a man of medium size, but very strong and was never sick a day in his 
life until his last sickness. He was a hard-working, honest, pioneer citizen. Both Mr. 
and Mrs. Laidlaw were members of the Christian Church in which he held the ofifiee 
of deacon. Politically he was a stanch Republican, formerly an old line Whig. He 
lived to the age of seventy-two years and died in 1883, respected by the pioneers as 
an honest and upright man and had many friends. He brought up a family of 
children who became good citizens. In 1870 he removed to Mishawaka, where he 
passed the last years of bis life. Always public-spirited he was always the friend 



412 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of the public schools. During the war be was a stanch Union man and assisted liber- 
ally with his means to HU the quota of his township. At his death he had no debts 
and throughout his life he made it a principle never to have a mortgage upon any of 
his property. Mrs. Laidlaw's parents were born in Massachusetts, moved to Ohio at 
an early day and subsequently to Indiana, where they both died and lie buried in the 
Eutztus burying ground in Penn township. The grandfather was in the Eevolu- 
tionary war and aided in establishing our national independence. He moved to near 
Marietta, Ohio, and there died and is there buried. Mr. Laidlaw owned one of the 
best farms in Penn township, upon which he erected line farm buildings, and here 
he was content, never accepting office although often solicited to do so. He was very 
fond of hunting and killed many deer in his time, as well as other kinds of game. 
Two different winters the Indians camped upon Mr. Laidlaw's farm for the purpose 
of hunting, and he joined them in hunting coon. Edwin C. Laidlaw, son of the 
above prominent subject, was born on his father's farm in Penn township, and has 
passed all of his days on the old homestead which has now been owned by the family 
for sixty-one years. He received a common school education and was a pupil at the 
old pioneer log school-house until he was sixteen years of age. This did not satisfy 
him, for, after his services as a soldier were over, he attended the Northern Indiana 
College at South Bend and also Eastman's National Business College at Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y. He was reared to farm life, but at the age of twenty-one enlisted 
at Mishawaka as a private soldier in the service of the United States and was mus- 
tered in May 27, 1864, in Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Regiment, 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry; served nine months and was honorably discharged at 
Indianapolis, Ind. , on account of the expiration of his term of enlistment. This 
service was principally guarding the Nashville & Chattanooga Railroad, which 
was defended by means of block houses, and the fighting was seven skirmishes 
with the bushwhackers, a very dangerous kind of tightiug. He was sick with 
chronic diarrhoea at the hospital at TuUahoma, Tenn., for one month. Although 
he re-joined his company, he never totally regained his health. After his services as 
a soldier, he returned home and resumed farming and managed the place after his 
father moved into Mishawaka. He married, January 25, 1876, Henrietta Pulling, 
born March 20, 1851, daughter of Charles K. and Mary A. (Neiler) Pulling. Mr. 
Pulling was of English stock and was born May 15, 1811, in Monmouth county, 
N. J. , the family having been an old colonial one. The members of the old family 
yet remaining, are, Charlotte, aged seventy-five years, residing at Bordentown, N. J. ; 
and Rebecca, aged ninety-one years, at Trenton, N. J. The family is a long-lived 
one. Mr. Pulling married in Philadelphia in 1836; his wife's family was an old 
American one, of Dutch and Welsh descent and belonged to the society of Quakers. 
In 1851 Mr. Pulling moved to St. Joseph county, Ind., and bought a farm of 120 
acres of land now occupied by the Studebaker residence and grounds, at South 
Bend, called Sunny Side. Mr. Pulling sold his farm and bought one on Harris 
Prairie and then sold that one and bought one three miles east of Mishawaka, but 
finally retired from farming and removed to Mishawaka, where he lost his wife. He 
was at the time of his death a resident of South Bend, and was seventy- four years 
of age. To Mr. and Mrs. Pulling were born nine children, as follows: Emeline; 
George; John; Ellen; Anna; Charlotte, diedat the age of eighteen years; Henrietta; 
Catherine; and Catherine deceased at the age of eleven years. Both Mr. and Mrs. 
Pulling were members of the Baptist Church. Politically he is a Republican and 
gave two sons. John and George, to the late war. The parents of Mr. Pulling were 
Samuel and Charlotte Pulling, natives of New Jersey. Mr. Pulling was a substan- 
tial farmer and an honest and respected citizen. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Laid- 
law settled on the old homestead where they still live, and to them have been born 
three children: Abbie, born April 7, 1881; Maliel, born May 2, 1883. died January 
15, 1886, and Chester E., born January 17, 1887. Socially Mr. Laidlaw is a mem- 
ber of I. O. O. F., also G. A. R., Houghton Post, of Mishawaka, and has held the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 413 

office of senior vice-commanrler. Politically he is a stanch Eepublican. He is a 
public-spirited man, has held the office of school director and has taken a deep 
interest in the schools of the commnnity. He is a practical farmer, been a 
hard worker aud has followed threshiog for thirteen years. He is one of the fore- 
most promoters of tine stock in his neighborhood, has a fine herd of Durham short 
horn cattle and Jersey cows and has always been foremost in breeding heavy draft 
horses, Clydesdales, shires and hackneys. He is also an extensive breeder of Shrop- 
shire Down sheep and of Poland China hogs. He manages the estate left by his father, 
which is yet undivided, besides eighty acres of his own land, and is one of the most 
efficient and practical farmers in Penu township. He stands deservedly high both 
as a man and a citizen. There is no other Laidlaw family in America of which this 
family has any knowledge that ever came to America. When John Laidlaw, father 
of our subject, started to visit the lady who subsequently became his wife, he used 
to take his gun and walk through dense wojds to her father's house at Wolf Lake, 
in Kosciusko county, some sixty miles away, the trip consuming two days. 

The Coppes Family. The members of tliis well-known and distinguished family 
in Elkhart county, Ind. , have become noted as practical, honorable, shrewd and suc- 
cessful business men, who have made the most of their advantages, and have always 
grasped at opportunities for bettering their financial, moral aud social conditions. 
They come of good old Puritan stock, and the progenitor of the family in this 
couutrj' settled in Mount Bethel township, Northampton Co., Penn. , which neigh- 
borhood was the family seat for a number of years; in all probability for nearly two 
generations. The Coppes originally came from England, where, to-day, there are 
large estates belonging to the family, but their right to this valuable property can 
not be directly traced up to the present time. Of the early members of the Coppes 
famiJy, Rev. Samuel D. Coppes was among the most prominent. He was born in 
England, came to America during the early history of this country, became a wealthy 
landholder of Northumberland county, Penn., was very popular throughout that 
section, owing to his kindly disposition and charitable nature, and became eminent 
as a successful practicing physician, for the duties of which he fitted himself in 
England. He won golden opinions for himself as a medical practitioner, for besides 
being remarkably skillful he was very philanthropic, and bestowed his services on 
rich and poor alike, never charging the latter for attending them unless they were 
willing and desirous of repaying him. His practice extended all over the State of 
Pennsylvania, as well as a large portion of the State of Ohio, and in the early days 
of Indiana he made frequent visits to this State. He was also a minister of the 
Mennonite Church, and for many years looked after the spiritual as well as the bodily 
welfare of his fellows, and was an able instructor in a righteous cause. He was one 
of the pioneer preachers of his church, and held services in difPerent portions of 
Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana, and his visits to this section of the country are 
well remembered by his people. He was an honorable, upright and God-fearing 
man, and his example as an earnest Christian is still in the minds of those who knew 
him. He was first married in Northampton county, Penn., to a German lady by the 
name of Delph, and by her became the father of the following children: Abraham, 
whose descendants are now in Ohio; Jacob, who was one of the early pioneers of 
Elkhart county, Ind. ; John, who left a family in Ohio; Samuel also died in that 
State; and Polly, who married Jacob Carver, lived and reared a family in the Buck- 
eye State. The first wife of Rev. Samuel Coppes paid the last debt of nature in 
Northampton county. Penn., after which betook for his second wife, Miss Susan 
Biirkey, whom he took with him to Ohio about 183-1:, settling on a farm in Medina 
county. This union resulted iu the birth of one daughter, Rebecca, who married 
Jacob Shaffer, with whom she removed to Elkhart county, Ind., and whose descend- 
ants are now residing in Harrison township. The second wife of Samuel D. Coppes 
survived him a number of years, and died in this county at the home of her only 
daughter, Mrs. Shaffer. Rev. Dr. Samuel Coppes was called from life in Ohio, in 



414 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

1863, his death being a source of much regret to all who knew him. He was well 
known as a public-spirited citizen, and politically was a Whig. He was a shrewd 
financier and accumulated a good property which was divided among his children in 
1865. He was one of the oldest settlers of this section of the county; as an expounder 
of the gospel, he was forcible, eloquent and logical, and he wielded a wide influence 
for good in the different sections in which he resided. His homes in Pennsylvania and 
Ohio were many times occupied by his patients who had no homes of their own, and 
possessed but little means, and thus he carried on his noble work until death over- 
took him, and he passed to his reward. All his sous and daughters married and 
reared families of their own, and in the different localities in which they made their 
home, they were held in high esteem, and having inherited many of their uolile 
father's qualities were honored and respected. His second son, Jacob, was born in 
Northampton county, Penn. , about 1812 or 1813, and was brought up to the healthy 
life of a farmer's boy. Upon reaching man's estate, he took for his wife Sarah 
Fravel, who was born in the same county as himself in IS'2'2, and who was one of 
twelve children reared by Daniel and Fannie (Myers) Travel, the former of whom was 
born in Bucks county, Penn., and was of English parents. He was left fatherless 
when a small child, and was reared by strangers, and upon starting out in life, took a 
wife from the same county as himself, and l)y her reared a large family of children, as 
follows: Jessie, Poll\', Catherine, Fannie, Joseph, Rebecca, Elizabeth, Susan, Sarah 
(now Mrs. Coppes), William, Daniel and Matilda. Of this family three children are 
living: Mrs. Coppes, a resident of Nappanee, Tud. : Elizabeth and Catherine whore- 
side in the Keystone State. Jacob Coppes and hi.s wife removed to Ohio at the same 
time that Rev. Dr. Samuel Coppes settled in that section, and there he remained for a 
period of about eight years, following the trades of shoemaking, and millwrighting. 
In 1844 he came to Indiana and settled in Harrison township, Elkhart county. 
For the first few years of his residence here his efforts were not prospered, and he met 
with various reverses which kept him in straitened circumstances for some time, but he 
kept perseveringly at work, and by the help of his oldest children, managed to keep 
the wolf from the door, and at last secured enough means to purchase forty acres of 
land in Locke township, on which he resided until death called him home in 1874. 
Notwithstanding the hard luck which met him in his career through life, he was never 
known to willfully wrong any one, and was honest, industrious and public spirited, ever 
casting his influence on the side of what he considered justice and right. In early life 
he supported the principles of the Whig party, and later the stand taken by the Re- 
publican party commended itself to his excellent judgment. With his wife he was a 
member of the Mennonite Church, and in his dail_y walk through life showed that he 
was a Christian. He was very domestic in his tastes, was devoted to his home and 
family, and never cared to fill any public position, the strife and turmoil of politics 
having no charms for him. His widow survives him, and is residing in Nappauee with 
her children, and although she is over seventy years of age, and reared a large family 
of sons and daughters, she is a well-preserved lady for her age, and appears to be in 
the enjovment of good health. Her children are as follows: Daniel, Samuel, Amanda, 
Susan, Eliza, Rebecca, Saloma, Lucinda, John D. and Frank. Three children died 
in infancy; Amanda, Susan and Rebecca. A brief sketch of the members of this 
family will not come amiss. Daniel was born in Pennsylvania, was reared on a 
farm under the watchful eye of his father, and when still quite young began learn- 
ing the painter's trade, at which he worked in Goshen, where he became a well-known 
and popular young man. He was one of the first to respond to his country's call at 
the opening of the Rebellion, and became a member of Company K, Thirteenth Regi- 
ment Indiana Volunteer Infantry at Goshen, where he became a commissioned officer. 
He was faithful and fearless on the battlefield and was greatly loved by his reg- 
imental comrades, who considered him not only a model soldier, but also a true and 
trusted friend. At the battle of Murfreesboro he was wounded by a gunshot in the 
leg, and during the three days and nights that he lay on the battlefield, he suffered 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 415 

indescribably. He was at last taken by his friends to a pi'ivate residence, which 
had been turned into a hospital, to be cared for, but there breathed his last the tenth 
day after receiving his wound. So dearly loved was he by his comrades the he was 
not buried in a ditch like most of the dead, but with willing hands and sad hearts, 
they made him a rough board coffin, and buried him beneath a large oak tree on that 
historic battle ground. He was unmarried. One of his companions in battle saw 
him fall, and placing himself beside him tried to cheer him with encouraging words 
and said: "Dan I will stay with you or die," and in order to deceive the enemy placed 
himself beside his wounded comrade and pretended to be dead. He was discovered, 
however, taken prisoner and carried away, and for three days and nights the unfort- 
unate young soldier, Daniel Coppes, was exposed to the rain and sleet which was 
falling, and which without doubt caused his death. He was a brave and gallant sol- 
dier, the pride of Company K, and is still remembered with respect and affection by 
the old residents of Goshen, and in the hearts of his old comrades the memory of the 
brave young soldier who gave his life for his country, is still kept green. Samuel 
D. Coppes is a prominent banker of Nappanee, a more extended notice of whom 
immediately suceeds this; Eliza married Benjamin Yarian, and died a few years later, 
leaving a family of live children, all of whom are living, with the exception of the 
youngest. The eldest of these children was Elizabeth, who married Daniel Zook, a 
prominent business man of Nappanee, and a member of the firm of Coppes Bros. & 
Zook, who are doing an extensive business at that place; Frank is a journalist of 
Goshen; Ella is living in Nappanee with her sister, Mrs. Zook; Edward is at home 
with his father in Nappanee; and Lucinda, who died at the age of three years. The 
mother of these children died in 1876. The next child born to Jacob Coppes and 
his wife, was Saloma, who married Benjamin Frazier of Nappanee, by whom she 
became the mother of five children, the eldest of whom, Milo, was killed at the age 
of ten years in a wheat elevator at that place, by being sucked into a wheat bin and 
smothered; Nettie is now Mrs. William Lesh, of Ohio; Sadie is living with Samuel 
Coppes; and Laura and Medie reside with their father in Nappanee. Their mother 
was called from life in 1876. The next of Jacob Coppe's children was Lucinda, who 
married John C. Millinger, a prominent resident of Nappanee, by whom she has 
four children; Ella, who is Mrs. Harvey Banta of Nappanee, and is the mother of 
two children, which are the great-grandchildren of Mrs. Jacob Coppes. This rep- 
resents now living in the town of Nappanee, four generations of the family. The 
younger members of this family are Mabel L., and John F. The sisters of 
Mrs. Banta are Sarah, who died in infancy, and Emma and Nettie, who reside 
with their parents. The next child born to Jacob Coppes, was John D. , of whom a 
sketch is given in this work, there being also a sketch of Frank, the youngest mem- 
ber of this family. It can be truly said of Jacob Coppes and his wife, that they 
were very worthy residents of the county, and showed much heroism in braving the 
hardships, dangers and discomforts of pioneer life, in order to provide a home for 
their children, and obtain a competencj' for their declining years. 

Samuel D. Coppes. It has laeen said, and truly said that "some men are born 
great, some have greatness thrust upon them and some achieve greatness," and to 
this last most important class belongs the subject of this sketch — Samuel D. Coppes 
— who was born in Medina county, Ohio, in 1844. When about six years of age he 
was removed by his parents to Elkhart county, Ind. ,and on his father's farm in 
this section he grew to manhood, his naturally good constitution being greatly 
strengthened by the wholesome and open air life that he led. Owing to the strait- 
ened circumstances in which his father was placed for some years after his residence 
here, he acquired only a rudimentary education in the district schools near his home, 
his attendance being confined to the winter months when his services were not re- 
quired on the farm. When he was about fourteen years of age his father lost a 
hand in a threshing machine and for some two years thereafter the support of the 
family fell on the youthful shoulders of young Samuel, who manfully took up the 



416 



PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 



burden thus fallen to him and devoted his time to cutting wood and hauling it to 
Goshen with an ox team. In this rugged school he learned habits of thrift and in- 
dustry which have followed him through life and which have been of materia] bene- 
fit to him in his walk through life. In due time he married and became a farmer on 
his own account in the neighborhood of his father's home. Applying his inborn 
energy to the farm which he took in hand, it was not long until practical results 
were soon made manifest. In the summer of 1866 he purchased a threshing ma- 
chine, which he managed during that season, but owing to a spell of sickness that 
overtook him that fall he was obliged to sell his interest which amounted to $500, 
which he spent in purchasing one of the finest span of horses in this section of the 
country. During the winter of that year he led to the altar Miss Lizzie Berlin, who 
was born in Ohio in 1843, a daughter of John D. Berlin, who died in Locke town- 
ship, Elkhart county, Ind. He came to this State about 1864 or 1865, purchased a 




tract of land in Locke township, but rented his farm as he, himself, was not able to 
till it owing to old age. He was a Pennsylvanian by birth, of German stock and 
died about 1876. His wife, Susanna Hoffman, was of German extraction and was 
called from life about one year after the death of her husband. They reared a fam- 
ily of four boys and six girls: Soloman, Kate, Lydia, Jesse, Jacob, Mary, Sarah, 
Elizabeth, Lavinia and Milton. The male members of this family are all dead. 
After his marriage Mr. Copfses tilled the soil for two or three years, at the end of 
which time he moved to Missouri and settled in Nodaway county, where he pur- 
chased a farm on which he lived for about three years. His next move was to re- 
turn to Elkhart county and he soon after purchased the farm belonging to his fa- 
ther-in-law for which he paid the sum of 14,000 giving a mortgage for the full 
amount. He soon had it paid for and in 1881 sold it and removed to Nappanee, 



MEMOIItS OF INDIANA. 



419 



purchasing a fourtli interest in the firm of J. C. Melliager & Co , which at that time 
was operating a saw-mill and box factory, and of which his two brothers, John D. 
and Frank Coppes formed the "Company. ' ' This combination continued until 1884, 
when Mr. Mellinger sold his entire interests to the Coppes Brothers, under which 
name the firm was known commercially until May 9, 1890, when Mr. Coppes sold 
his one-third interest in the tirm to Daniel Zook, late county clerk of Elkhart county 
and one of the leading lawyers of this section. It was during the connection of 
Mr. Coppes with Coppes Brothers that the Nappanee Milling Company's flouring- 
mill was established, it being now one of the leading milling concerns in the country. 
It turns out '250 barrels of high grade flour every twenty-four hours, and is sup- 
plied with the full roller process. The product of this mill is principally shipped 
to leading markets in Europe, the demand growing faster than the mill can supply. 
The peculiar facilities for running this mill enables them to manufacture flour at a 
minimum cost, for all the refuse of their saw-mill and box factory, which under other 
circumstances, to most firms becomes an actual expense, is by them used as fuel in 
their flour-mill — not a pound of coal nor stick of cordwood being needed, and thus 
they can pay high prices for their grain, which attracts to their mill the patronage 
of the farmers for many miles around. The capacity of the saw-mill belonging to 
this tirm has a capacity of 20,000 feet per day and the box factory has a capacity of 




3,500 per day. The western markets offer a ready receptacle for the entire output 
of the establishment which gives employment to from 50 to 100 men the year round, 
and the aggregate volume of which business amounts to §500,000 annually. The 
factory and mill monopolize an area of fourteen acres all told. They pay tempt- 
ingly high prices for timlier, for every portion of the tree is utilized, the refuse being 
used for fuel and the balance even to the minutest particles, in their box factory. 
They have a fine line of soft and hard wood lumber of all kinds, and expect to make 
many improvements and changes in their work ere long. Who will say that the 
busy, never-ceasing energy of such a man as Samuel D. Coppes has not been a 
blessing to Nappanee. He is truly one of the class of men who "'achieve greatness," 
and he well deserves the financial success which has attended his efforts in the past 
ten years. Afterone year spent in rest and recreation, he, in 1891, projected the erec- 
tion of a new bank and hotel structure in Nap[)anee, and although his project met with 
scant encouragement at first, yet his irresistible spirit would not down until it received 
the patronage of such men of financial standing as B. Uline, as well as others. At 
this time Bechtel &Son, owners of the Farmers' and Traders' Bank, expressed a will- 
ingness to sell, and Mr. Coppes at once purchased the institution of which he took 
charge May 1, 1891, in which he gave his son, Harvey E. Coppes, an interest and in- 



420 PICTORIAL .1X3 BIOGRAPHICAL 

stalled him as teller of the same, J. C. Mellinger being retained as cashier. The bank 
is established on a solid financial basis, is a handsome two story brick structure, with 
safety vault, finished after the most approved modei-n designs. A general banking 
business is done, and as a financial medium for the convenience of depositors and 
the business community in general, it is all that can be required. It has a liberal 
patronage and enjoys the confidence of the people within a radius of many miles. 
The acquisition of the bank did not lessen the zeal of Mr. Coppes in pushing to com- 
pletion the Coppes Hotel which was completed January 20, 1892, and would do 
credit to a town of 10,000 inhabitants. It is a conspicuous example of the enter- 
terprise and public spirit of the citizens of Nappanee. Although some eight or ten 
of the best men of the city were interested in the property S. D. Coppes is the one 
who has stood by it from its inception and carried the work to a successful comple- 
tion. 

Coppes Hotel is a model of architectural beauty in all its details. Its extreme 
dimensions are 88 feet front by 85 feet in depth, two stories and basement. A hand- 
some galvanized iron front, with large plate windows, etc., give an elegant ap- 
pearance to this sprightly and very commodious hotel. The main frontage on the 
first floor is divided into three distinct compartments, viz.: The ground floor, occu- 
pied by the hotel proper, which is 46x75 feet; the room adjoining (admirably 
adapted for a first-class barbershop, millinery store, or a doctor's office) is 20x33 
feet, and a third room very suitable for a grocery or drug store, 22x85 feet, with a 
distinct storage room or hall on the upper floor, running back the entire length of 
the building. On the second floor, devoted to hotel purposes, are twenty first-class 
bedrooms for the convenience and comfort of transient trafiic exclusivelj', in addition 
to ladies' and gents' parlor, bath-rooms, closets, etc. A solid stone basement to the 
height of seven feet, with a cement flooring, is a distinguishing feature of this build- 
ing, front to rear. Hot and cold water in each room of this hotel will place it in the 
front rank of the most modern hostelries now being erected. The building through- 
out will be heated by the latest improved hot- water system. The furnishings and all 
necessary findings will be of the best. The aim has been to make the "Coppes 
Hotel" first-class in every particular, and from present appearances the expecta- 
tions of its projectors will be more than fully realized. The contract price has been 
$17,000, the architectural designs and superintendence of the work being to the credit 
of our worthy townsman, Mr. H. F. Frazier, who needs not fear to say that when 
fully completed there will not be a handsomer or more commodious house in any 
other town of three times the population than the new "Coppes Hotel'' of Nappanee. 

The erection of this hotel was instrumental in bringing many people to the town 
who erected handsome private residences in the vicinity and made Nappanee a pretty 
and desirable place in which to reside. There was no such word as fail in Mr. 
Coppes' vocabulary, and had it not been for his pluck and perseverance, as well as 
public spirit, there would be no fine hotel, and it is to be doubted if the water- 
works and electric light plants would yet be in operation in Nappanee, although to 
the credit of most of the best men in the city, they were all of one mind on this ques- 
tion, and are equally entitled to praise for their worthy efforts in conjunction with 
Mr. Coppes. The latter is the owner of 160 acres of tine farming land and has a 
handsome residence on East Main street. He may be said to have made the town 
of Nappanee what it is and has always been extremely public spirited and patriotic. 
He is a careful business man and the much-abused phrase " self-made man" may 
with truth be applied to him. His record as a man of affairs throughout the north- 
ern portion of the State is enviable, and in his own immediate neighborhood his 
word is as good as his bond. He and his wife have reared a family of seven chil- 
dren and have lost two: Minnie, who died at the age of three years, and Jesse, dy- 
ing at the age of eighteen months; Frank, who was born in Missouri, is a resident 
of Nappanee and is married to Susan Culp, a native of this coiinty; Clara is attend- 
ing school, as are also Delia; Lillian; Myrtle and Frederick. Harvey Coppes is the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 421 

secoQd son of this family and obtained his education in the high school of Nappanee. 
From the start he showed good business qualifications and became an expert book- 
keeper, at an early age taking full charge of the books of the firm of Coppes Bros. 
Upon the establishment of the Farmers' & Traders' Bank by his father he was 
made teller, and in this responsible position he has shown himself to be thoroughly 
reliable, competent and indefatigable. His future is bright with promise, and he 
bids fair to rival his worthy father as a business man and a public-spirited citizen. 
He is now in his twenty-third year and has been a resident of Nappanee since he 
was eleven years of age, or ever since 1881. 

John D. Coppes, a member of the firm of Coppes Bros., & Zook, was the ninth 
child born to Jacob Coppes, his birth occurring in Jackson township of this county, 
in 1856. but owing to the straitened circumstances in which his parents were 
placed during his boyhood, he received limited advantages for obtaining an educa- 
tion, only attending school a short time during the winter season. At the age of 
eighteen years he began teaming around the mill owned by Joseph Strohm. in Locke 
township, and while doing this work he formed the resolution of owning a mill of 
his own, and a short time after he helped to buy out his employer, and now owns a one- 
third interest in the same, which has been enlarged five- hundred-fold from its original 
dimensions. During the two years that he worked for others after leaving home, he 
managed to save S150, and this was his entire capital, when, with his brother Frank, 
in 1876, they purchased the interest of B. F. Myers in the saw-mill business with 
J. C. Mellinger, giving him their note for §1,300, running two years at six per cent. 
The firm is now known as Coppes Bros. & Zook, and it can be said of each of the 
members of this firm that they are honest, industrious and enterprising young men 
whose jaresent success is the result of their earnest and persistent efforts. John D. 
Coppes has been a resident of Nappanee for a number of years and naught has 
ever been said to his discredit, but much in his praise. He was married in 1879 to 
Sliss Malinda Strohm, daughter of the old saw-miller, Joseph Strohm. She was 
born in Elkhart county in 1860, and has borne her husband four children: Marvin, 
Erviu, Lloyd and Gertrude. Mrs. Coppes is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and politically Mr. Coppes is a strong Republican. He is a shrewd man 
of business and has done much to build up the town and advance the business in- 
terests of the place. 

Frank Coppes, a member of the well-known firm of Coppes Bros. & Zook, is a 
product of Elkhart county, Ind., his birth occurring in Harrison township, in 1858. 
Like his brother John D., he was reared on his father's farm, where he learned 
lessons of industry and frugality which were his stepping stones to success in later 
years. He dutifully remained on the home place engaged in tilling the soil until 
after the death of his father, who had been a sturdy farmer all his days and had 
taught his boys habits of sterling integrity and honest labor, and left them the 
heritage of an unsullied name, which was rather to be desired than great riches. 
During the year of 1874 Frank worked for Joseph Strohm, and the next year for 
Mellinger & Myers, at the expiration of which time he had saved the munificent sum 
of §25 all told, and at once co-operated with his brother John D. in purchasing the 
one-half interest of Mr. Mellinger in the saw-mill, trusting to energy and good 
fortune to relieve him of his debt. Time proved the wisdom of this move and he 
is now in good circumstances financially and occupies a high place in the estimation 
of his fellows. The career of these gentlemen is a worthv' example to all young 
men who are struggling for a livelihood to go and do likewise, and if they desire 
success they must labor hard to attain it, especially those who are without capital 
as these young men were. Frank Coppes was married to Miss Kate Felty, of South 
Bend, Ind. , a daughter of John and Martha (Dunbar) Felty, who have been resi- 
dents of the State for many years. Mrs. Coppes was born in Lebanon county, Penn., 
in 1859, the fifth of ten children. Her father is still living at South Bend, but her 
mother paid the last debt of nature at that place in 1880. To Mr. and Mrs. Frank 



422 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Coppes three children have been born: Bessie, Harold and Claudie, the eldest of 
whom is attending school, and they occupy a handsome and comfortable dwelling on 
Madison and Walnut streets in Nappanee. 

Daniel Zook, a member of the above-mentioned firm was born in Elkhart county, 
Ind., in 1851, was reared on a farm, but after reaching his nineteenth year he began 
alternating his time and attention between saw-milling and teaching a country 
school for a short period, later turning his attention to the study of law in the ofiSce 
of his brother, A. S. Zook, and H. D. Wilson, one of the leading legal firms of 
Goshen. He remained there from 1876 to 1882, and there practiced his profession 
for some time after obtainiag his "sheepskin." After coming to Nappanee he con- 
tinued to follow this occupation for four years, at the end of which time he was 
elected to the office of county clerk which he filled with credit to himself and friends 
until 1890, at which time he retired from the office and purchased a one-third inter- 
est in the firm of Coppes Bros., assuming the place of Samuel D. Coppes in that 
firm. He has charge of the clerical and financial part of the work, John D. Coppes 
attends to the sawmill and box factory business and Frank Coppes has full control 
of the flouriug-mill and the disposition of its contents. Nappanee has every reason 
to be proud of this valuable enterprise and the worthy men at its head. They are 
doing grand work for the town and their highest aim is to go still further upward 
and onward, that they may yet accomplish much more for the general good. Mr. 
Zook has a pleasant home and an interesting family. The firm is doing an annual 
business of §450,000 and no branch of their business is allowed to be neglected, a 
large corps of men being required to keep it in working order. 

The Ulery Family. This is one of the most remarkable and worthy families of 
Elkhart county, Ind., and many years back, during the colonial history of this 
country, the family tree first took root on American soil. The original founder of 
the family in America came from Germany about the year 1790, at which time the 
name was spelled Ulrich, but which afterward became Anglicized and was spelled 
Ulery. He was the great-grandfather of the present generation and was the one 
to carve out a home for the family in the New World. He died in Cambria county, 
Penn. His son, John Ulery, was married to Miss Elizabeth Lehr in Pennsylvania 
and for some time thereafter made his home near Johnstown, being the owner of 
a farm in the valley over which the great flood swept in May, 1888. In the year 
1818 he sold his farm there, with the intention of moving to Ohio, and to this 
end loaded his household effects on a boat and started down the Ohio River, termi- 
nating his jou7ney two miles west of Dayton, where he resided on a large farm until 
1831, when he sold his farm there to move to Elkhart county, Ind., of which region 
he had heard flattering accounts. He purchased a farm one mile west of Goshen, 
and there he died in 1846. From the time he moved to Indiana he made eleven 
trips on horseback, from Goshen to Dayton, Ohio. He and his wife were members 
of the German Baptist Church, in which he was a deacon, and politicallj' he was 
first a Whig l)ut afterward became a Republican. He was much esteemed as a man, 
and after a useful and well-spent life passed to his reward, his wife's death having 
also occurred in Elkhart county. They were the parents of a large family of chil- 
dren, two of whom, Samuel and Daniel, were born in Pennsylvania and removed to 
Ohio and later to Indiana with their parents, the former locating east of Goshen and 
the latter in Union township, where bis descendants now reside. The other children 
were born in Ohio: Jacob and John (who live near Goshen); Susan (who married 
Jacob Stiitzman); Lydia (who married Nicholas Cripe); and Levi, who resides in 
the vicinity of Goshen. In Cambria county, of the Keystone State, Daniel Ulery 
first saw the light of day on the 28lh of July, 1814. He was four years of age 
when taken to Oliio, and when his parents started to remove to that State young 
Daniel determined to remain at his old home, and when the family were all on the 
boat ready to begin their journey young Daniel started for his old home as fast as 
he could go and gave liis parents quite a chase before he was caught and carried 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 423 

on the boat. He was very homesick for some time after reaching Dayton, but time 
remedied this and he eventually removed to Indiana with the family in the year 
mentioned above. Goshen, at that time, consisted of a few houses and two small 
stores. For quite a number of years after their settlement the region was very 
unhealthy and nearly every summer the family were sick with ague. This was very 
discouraging, and Daniel made up his mind that he was either going back to Ohio 
or try to lind a place where he did not shake with ague every spring. His father 
urged him to go south and look for a piece of land for himself, and this advice he 
followed, entering a quarter section of land in Union township, on which he lived 
until his death. This land was entered in 1837 in the office at La Porte, soon after 
which he settled on the land, deadened a lot of the timber and thus laid the foun- 
dations for his new home, and by good management had it all paid for in four years' 
time. April 15, 1841, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Davenport and in 
May they moved a part of their goods to their farm, and until sufficient timber 
could be hewed for a log house they lived in a tent and did their cooking out of 
doors. After everything was completed they went back to the old home place, where 
they farmed until the fall. November 18, 1841, they made a permanent settlement 
on their new farm, and although the weather was delightful the3' were lonesome, 
for they had no neighbors and there was little to be heard or seen, except wolves, 
deer and turkeys, which were very plentiful. Mr. Ulery had only $12 when he 
settled on his farm, yet he hired a man that winter to chop off the timber from 
some of his land, for which he paid him .$11 and thus had $1 left to carry him 
through until his wheat crop, which he had put out near Goshen, could be har- 
vested. Soon after making his settlement he took his team and wagon and drove 
to his father' 8 home, near Goshen, where he butchered two hogs and started for 
home the following morning, but his team became mired and could not pull the 
wagon out and he was compelled to unhitch his team and make his way home with- 
out his meat, leaving it to be feasted upon by the wolves. Upon his arrival home, 
at 10 o'clock that night, he was so disheartened that he told his wife if any one 
would give him 25 cents for his farm he could have it. He returned for his wagon 
in the morning and was surprised to find that the meat had been untouched. This 
was but one instance of the trials and hardships which beset the early pioneer, but 
the life was by no means devoid of plea.sure, for to the lover of the chase it offered 
many inducements, and as a hunter Mr. Ulery was counted among the best in the 
county. He inherited this characteristic from his father, John Ulery, who was 
one of the greatest bear hunters in Pennsylvania. Daniel Ulery, however, was never 
successsful enough to kill a bear, but many other specimens of wild game fell 
beneath the unerring aim of his rille. The first deer he killed after moving to Indi- 
ana, was in the fall of 1831, one mile northwest of Goshen, on the Elkhart Eiver, 
which he had to wade twice, although partly frozen over, in order to capture it. 
The deer proved to be a large one. He killed his second deer on the Elkhart 
Prairie, east of Goshen. During his time he went out hunting and killed eight deer 
with four shots from his rifle, two each time. His health was such that he was not 
able to do much manual labor and consequently had much time to devote to hunt- 
ing, and at one time be saw a drove of from sixty to seventy but could not get near 
enough to them to get a shot. In the winter, after killing and dressing a deer, 
he would hang it up on a sapling until he got ready to take it home, and often had 
four or five deer hanging in the woods at one time. When he went after his deer 
he would often tie two together, hang them across his horse, one on each side, 
and carry them home in that way. If the snow was deep he would make harness 
out of Linden bark, fasten two or three together and drag them home. Frequently 
he would take a sled with him where he had deer hanging and leave it until he was 
ready to return home, and during his long experience as a hunter he never had but 
one deer stolen from him while they hung in the woods. Where Nappanee now 
stands used to be Mr. Ulery' s favorite hunting ground, for for many years this was 



424 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

where the deer would pass from the north to the south marsh. In the southeast 
part of the town there used to stand an old vacant building, called the Housour 
Home, and here Mr. Ulery deposited many deer to keep the wolves from devouring 
them. The last two deer that Mr. Ulery killed was on the 29th of December, 1865. 
He heard that three deer had possession of the woods northwest of Locke, and on 
that day Daniel Ulery with his son, L. D. Ulery, started in pursuit, one of their 
horses being provided with a bell which was to attract the attention of the deer, and 
two of the three animals were killed. Mr. Ulery never did any hunting later than 
the Ist of January. He used to dress his venisou nicely, sell the hind quarters 
at 12 to 20 cents per pound, and the hides sometimes brought him in as high as 65 
cents per pound, a Mr. Clem purchasing the last lot at that price. He kept an 
account of the number of deer he killed and what they brought him until the 
number had reached over 500 when he lost his book; but he killed a great many 
after that. He was almost alwaj^s very successful in handling a guu, but one time 
accidentally shot and killed one of his horses while trying to bring down a deer 
for his father who was lying sick at his home near Goshen. But this loss was made 
good to him by his father, who sent him a good horse in payment, and by hunting 
soon made enough to purchase another horse. As a marksman he, perhaps, had no 
equal. One afternoon he went out into the woods and shot tifty-two squirrels, all 
through the head, not missing one. These he sold in Goshen, at sixpence apiece. 
The pastime of Isaac Walton was also a great source of pleasure to him, and he 
took great delight in fishing either with seine, net or spear. In his early days 
large tish were very numerous, and in the Elkhart River he speared one pike that 
weighed thirty-sis pounds after the head was taken off. He also did a great deal 
of fishing with the spear on the Syracuse Lake, taking in the large bass. He was 
also a fine swimmer and it made but little difference to him whether he was in water 
or on dry land; he could help himself. One night, while crossing Syracuse Lake 
with a Mr. Brumbaugh, he rose to look for the fire on the shore when the boat tipped 
to one side and threw him out. He swam around to the side of the boat and got in 
without upsetting it, but in falling lost his spear and the water being deep, he could 
not find it until two years later, when he saw the handle of the spear ten feet below 
the surface of the water, the moss having raised it up. He dived for it and 
secured it. 

For some time, when Daniel and his brothers were young men, they were very 
much annoyed by a Mr. Hawkins, who was putting up a grist-mill on the Elkhart 
River, one mile west of Goshen, and who very frequently desired their assistance. 
He kept this up so long that they at last got tired of it and concluded that the next 
time he came they would play a joke on him. As expected, he came one day when 
they were very busy, but all three agreed to go with him, and while crossing the 
river in a boat one of the boys deftly managed to upset it, and although Mr. Haw- 
kins managed to safely reach the shore it was the last time he asked their assistance. 
Many of his early adventures are still recalled by his children, to whom he related 
them. Indians were very numerous at fii'st, and in time became quite troublesome, 
owing to their thieving ways, but they were not hostile. Mr. Ulery was a good 
teamster and usually drove four horses. He used to haul a great deal of grain and 
produce from Goshen to Michigan City, and on returning would bring a load of salt 
back to Goshen, salt being then worth $10 per barrel. He was very handy with car- 
penter's and shoemaker's tools, and for many years made all the shoes worn by himself 
and family, or until boots came into style. The first shoes he purchased out of a store 
was in the fall of 1853, which practically ended his shoe business, for he saw that he 
could providehis family's footwear in an easier way. All his first furniture was made by 
himself, with the exception of chairs and bedsteads, and the pieces were all made of 
black walnut and cherry. There is only one piece of the old stock left and that is in 
possession of L. D. Ulery, viz., the cradle in which he and his brothers and sisters 
were rocked. Mr. Ulery made one of the first pair of bobsleds that was used in 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 425 

.the township, also his first pump for his well, but this was not like the modern pump. 
The upper stock was made of black walnut, twenty inches in diameter, and was in 
use for about thirty-five years. He was very fond of a joke in his young days, and 
often played them upon the unsuspecting, but with such good humor that it was 
impossible to be angry with him. His wife performed her part in the domestic 
affairs of their pioneer life. Cooking stoves were not in use in those days, and the 
culinary equipments consisted of a big fireplace, with a broad hearth made of stone, 
generally; a "Dutch oven," in which the bread was baked; a skillet and a frying- 
pan. The fireplace was generally provided with a crane, on which to hang pots and 
the old-fashioned teakettle. Mrs. Ulery spun and wove her own linen, likewise her 
woolen goods. She spun her own sewing-thread and made all the summer and win- 
ter garments for the family, and did it all without any assistance. She still sur- 
vives, lives on the old homestead and is a member of the Dunkard Church, with 
which Mr. Ulery also kept the faith from 1855 until his death, holding the office of 
deacon from January 1, 1807. Like most boys he was very adventurous, and in 
childhood, while attempting to walk a clothesline he fell off and broke one of his 
arms. After he had moved with his parents out near Goshen, squirrels became very 
numerous and did great damage to the crops, and one time in attempting to catch 
a number that had taken refuge in a tree, he caught hold of two limbs, gave a sud- 
den jerk, when both gave way with him and he fell heavily to the ground, breaking 
both arms and putting one wrist out of place. Although his arms soon healed his 
wrist bothered him for a number of years. In the fall before he moved onto his 
farm he put out a wheat crop on the old farm, and at the harvest time the neigh- 
bors' boys and his brothers attempted to "hoist'' him, as was customary, and in 
the good-natured scuffle his body became twisted in such a way that three of his 
ribs were broken and his back so severely injured that for seven years he was not 
able to chop his own firewood or stoop to do any kind of work. This was a great 
hindrance to him, commencing, as he did, on a pioneer woodland farm. In the year 
1874, after harvest, misfortune again visited bim, for his barn was struck by light- 
ning, and, besides the building, all his wheat, his hay crop, two horses, wagons, bug- 
gies, 400 bushels of old wheat, and many other things, were burned. In 1882 a 
heavy storm came up, and after his boys had taken a load of hay into the barn. 
Father Tilery went to close the door, but just then a little girl ran in front of the 
door, and to protect her he held to the door and was thrown off the barn bridge 
a distance of twelve feet, striking his arm on a mower and breaking it near the 
shoulder. This left that arm crippled the remainder of his life. He continued 
to have fair health until about one year befoi'e his death, when he began to fail, 
heart trouble setting in. He was alwaj's very much interested in school affairs, and 
after much hard work he managed to get a school started in his district, and 
although it was a log structure covered with clapboards and furnished in the most 
primitive style, yet it answered the purpose, and here his children received their 
first instruction in the paths of learning. Mr. Ulery was township trustee for some 
time, and this gave him a good opportunity to work up the school system, of which 
he was not slow to avail himself. Later, the first rude school structure gave place 
to a hewed-log house, which was in turn replaced by a frame building, and now a 
handsome and convenient brick biiilding occupies the site. Daniel Ulery succeeded 
in giving his children a fair education, and four of them became school-teachers. 
Their names are as follows: Levi D., who lives two miles east of Nappanee; 
Lydia, married John S. Wisler and lives south of Bremen; John D. , lives east of 
Nappanee; Catherine, married Alphens Wisler and resides in Harper county, Kas. ; 
Elizabeth, married Emanuel Whitehead and resides in Kosciusko county, Ind. ; 
Samuel, lives on the old home farm in Union township; Sarah, married William 
Ebersole and resides in Harper county, Kas. ; David, resides in Garrett, Ind., and 
is an employe on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. This family is honored wherever 
known, and are the descendants of a worthy scion of the house — their worthy 



426 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

father, Daniel Uleiy, whose memory yet remains green in the hearts of his numer- 
ous friends and acquaintances, as well as by his own immediate family. Besides 
raising his own children, he adopted, at the age of two years, the daughter of 
Christian Souder (Mary A.), of New Paris. She is now living in Union township 
and is the wife of Samuel Smeltzer, by whom she has two living children. 

Levi D. Ulery was born in Union township, Elkhart county, Ind., on May 30, 
1842, the eldest child l)orn to Daniel Ulery, one of the well-known old settlers of 
this section. In his youth he attended what was known as the Ulery school, in 
which he obtained a good education. He grew to manhood in Union township and 
on September 21, 1871, was married to Miss Catherine Kinsel, who was born in 
Ohio, October 1, 1847, the adopted daughter of Jacob R. NofFsinger. Mr. and Mrs. 
Ulery. after their marriage, settled on the farm where they now live and have suc- 
ceeded in making of it one of the pleasantest homes in the township. On this neat, 
well-tilled and productive farm of 100 acres, they have a substantial and handsome 
brick residence, in which they dispense a refined and generous hospitality to the 
numerous friends who gather beneath their roof-tree. Mr. and Mrs. Ulery have 
long been connected with the German Baptist Church, he being a deacon in that church, 
and he has always been very enthusiastic in his support of Republican principles, 
and has held a number of offices of trust. He has an interesting and intelligent 
family of six children whose names are as follows: William W., who was born June 
20, 1872; Jesse C, born August 7, 1874; Minnie, boru February 5, 1878, and died 
January 17, 1879; Alviu J., born February 5, 1881; Ada, born March 5, 1883, and 
Mabel, born July 23, 1887. Like the majority of the intelligent and prosperous 
agriculturists of the present day, Mr. Ulery learned the details of his work on his 
father's farm, but a considerable portion of his early years was also spent in the 
timber, cutting wood and hauling lumljer to South Bend. His spare moments were 
given to hunting, in which he took great pleasure, and he became skilled in the use 
of the shotgun and the rifle. His start in life was made by dealing in timber and 
lumber and, although this school was a rough one, it taught him self-reliance and 
energ)', which attributes were of great benefit to him in later years. He comes of 
substantial, honorable and enterprising stock, is public spirited to a degree and is a 
law-abiding and worthy citizen, whose good qualities are seen and recognized by 
all who know him. 

John D. Ulery. During the forty-six years that have passed over the head of 
the gentleman whose name stands at the head of this sketch, he has witnessed a 
wonderful transformation in Elkhart county, and during all these years he has been 
an active observer of the trend of events. He has not been merely a "looker on in 
Venice," but a citizen who has. through his enterprise, his integrity and his public- 
spirit, contributed his full share to the magnificent development of the section in 
which he resides. He comes of an honored ancestry, for the well known old pioneer, 
Daniel Ulery, was his father, from whom he inherited many of his most worthy 
characteristics. He was the third of his children and first saw the light of day on 
the old home farm in Union township, February 3, 1846, and like the majority of 
farmer's boys of that region, obtained his initiatory education in what was known 
far and near as the Ulery School. This he alternated with tilling the soil until he 
had almost attained man's estate, when he quit school to devote his attention to 
agricultural pursuits, which calling occupied his time and attention until he was 
about twenty-seven years of age. He then, on March 10, 1872, united his fortunes 
with those of Mary J. Whitehead, who was the youngest child born to Valentine 
and Margaret (Lentz) Whitehead; the former was a son of Valentine and Elizabeth 
(Rodebaugh) Whitehead, who were of German descent and were early pioneers of 
Pennsylvania and Ohio. Valentine lost his wife, Elizabeth, in Ohio, after which 
he removed to the Hoosier State and died in Elkhart county in 1867, at which time 
he was a retired farmer and nearly ninety years of age. He was the father of 
eleven children, all of whom are dead, with the exception of three: Louis, Peter 



MEMOIRS OF IXDmXA. 427 

and David. Valentine, one of the children of the above mentioned family, was the 
father of Mrs. John Ulery. He removed to Indiana at an early day, having mar- 
ried Margaret Lentz. in Ohio, and settled on a woodland farm of 160 acres in 
Jackson township. Elkhart county, which he did much to improve prior to his death, 
which occurred on July 24, 1851. He was a member of the German Baptist Church, 
a Democrat in early life and afterward became a Republican in political principle, 
although he but seldom exercised the privilege of suffrage. Five children were the 
result of his union: Lucinda, wife of Joseph B. Haney, was born December 13, 
1842; Samuel, a carpenter of Goshen, was born in 1845; Jacob is a farmer of Bates 
county. Mo. ; Emanuel, of Kosciusko county, lud., is married to Elizabeth Ulery, 
by whom he has four children — Argus, Jesse, Clayton and Calvin; Mary J. is the 
wife of John D. Ulery. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Whitehead married 
John D. Miller, of New Paris, who was born near Dayton, Ohio, in 1812, a son of 
David Miller (a more complete sketch of this gentleman is found in the sketch of 
David B. Miller). He has resided for years in the vicinity of New Paris, where he 
is highly honored and esteemed. Mrs. Miller is now seventy-one years of age, but 
is still healthy and active. To her union with Mr. Miller three children were given: 
Evaline, Ira and Perry. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are residents of Jackson township, 
Elkhart county. Mrs. John D. Ulery was born in this county, February 11, 1852, 
and has presented her husband with two children: Edward W., born December 13, 
1872, who has the principal charge of the home farm and is a steady, kindly and 
intelligent young man, and Lizzie, who was born November 28, 1874, and is an 
accomplished young lady. Mr. Ulery is classed among the foremost citizens of 
Union township, and is at the head of his business, owing to the energy aud en- 
terprise he has displayed. He owns an exceptionally fertile farm of 135 acres, on 
which are probably the best buildings of any farm in the township. He is a man of 
wealth and owns an interest in the Nappanee Furniture Company, as well as in 
other paying interests. He has followed in his father's footsteps in regard to meet- 
ing with accidents, as well as in other respects, for on July 4, 1881, he was badly 
injured by a reaping machine and for about a year thereafter was an invalid. He 
is deservedly classed among the public spirited and intelligent men of the county 
and his warm jsersoual friends can be numbered by the score. Mrs. Ulery is a 
member of the German Baptist Church. Her maternal grandfather came to this 
country at an early day, having started from his native land a rich man. The 
voyage by water occupied nine months, and upon lauding he found himself without 
means, owing to the tyranny and dishonesty of the captain of the vessel. On this 
voyage some three hundred soiils died. Mr. and Mrs. Ulery took to rear as their 
own child, David A. Leatherman, who, at that time was six years of age, and the 
orphan son of John and Elizabeth Leatherman, gave him every advantage and 
provided means for him to graduate from the University at Valparaiso, Ind. He is 
a young man of much promise and at the present time is a traveling man. He re- 
mained with his foster parents until he was twenty years old and still holds them 
in grateful and honored remembrance, for they proved to him a friend in his need 
and were alwaj^s as kind and thoughtful of his wants as though he were one of their 
own family. This is but one instance of the many kind and disinterested actions 
done by Mr. Ulery in his walk through life, and clearly indicated the true character 
of the man. 

Samuel Ulery is the sixth child born to Daniel Ulery, his birth occurring in 
Union township, Elkhart Co., Ind., April 20, 1852, and after acquiring a good edu- 
cation in the district schools in the vicinityofhisrural home, he began life for himself 
as a school teacher. He received therearing thatis usually given the pioneer farmer's 
boy, i. e., his days were spent in clearing the home farm aud in following the plow, 
during which time he attained to vigorous manhood, and improved both muscle and 
brain by the healthful outdoor life he lead. When about the age of twenty-three 
years he decided that it was not good for man to live alone, and for his companion 



438 PICTORIAL AJS^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

through life he chose Miss Sarah A. Martin, a native of Montgomery county, Ohio, 
and daughter of David and Sarah (Miller) Martin, the former of whom was an 
Ohioau, of which State his father was an early settler. The mother was a daughter 
of Abraham Miller, an early pioneer of Montgomery county, Ohio. Mrs. Ulery's 
parents are still living in Preble county, where thej' brought up their eight children: 
Sarah, Mariah, William, Lydia, Nancy, Lizzie, John and David. Mrs. Ulery's birth 
occurred November 16, 1852, and she attained womanhood on the old home farm in 
Preble county, her union with Mr. Ulery being celebrated there. She has presented 
her husband with the following children: Charles E. , born October 24, 1875; Ida 
B., born April 22, 1878; Bertha M., born October 4, 1882; May C, born April 22, 
1884; Daniel A., born September 25, 1887, and Vernie E., born July 6, 1892. Mr. 
Ulery and his wife support the doctrines of the German Baptist Church, and are 
living on the old Ulery homestead, where they have a finely improved tract of land 
of 158 acres, all of which is very fertile notwithstanding the fact that it is one of 
the oldest farms in the county. Mr. Ulery has always supported Republican princi- 
ples, and is a wide-awake, public spirited citizen. He has held offices of trust in his 
township and school district, and has at all times given his support to worthy enter- 
prises. He and his wife are among the prominent citizens of the county, and as 
such are recognized. 

Joseph C. Ullert is one of the wide-awake and progressive tillers of the soil of 
Green township, St. Joseph Co., Ind., of which he has been one of the public-spir- 
ited residents for many years. He was born in Miami county, Ohio, January 22, 
1842, to George A. Ullery and wife, natives of Prussia, who came to this country in 
1828, and after a five years' residence in Pennsylvania, removed by wagon to Miami 
county, Ohio, where he purchased a farm on which he made his home until his death, 
at the extreme old age of ninety-four years. He was a soldier in Napoleon Bonaparte's 
army, and distinguished himself in a number of severe engagements, in one of 
which he was captured by the English, who gave him his choice of remaining in 
prison or joining the English army, and he prudently chose the latter. He was brought 
to this country as a member of the British army, and was a participant in three en- 
gagements in Maine. At the end of four years he was taken back to England, and 
there discharged from the service. He immediately returned to Prussia, and from 
there came to the United States to seek a home for himself and family, and 
eventually passed from life in Ohio as above stated. His wife, whose maiden name 
was Marie C. Wittig, was also born in Prussia, and bore her husband eleven children, 
of whom the immediate subject of this sketch was the youngest. He came from 
Ohio to St. Joseph county, Ind., in 1859, located in the vicinity of South Bend, and 
there engaged in farming. September 7, 1862, he was married to Miss Mary I. 
Robertson, daughter of Daniel D. and Esther Robertson, and on the farm on which he 
now resides he settled immediately after his marriage, and there resided for six years. 
He then went to Iowa, and after living in that State for about six years, returned to 
the vicinity of South Bend, and there has since been content to make his home. His 
farm is carefully looked after and is devoted, not only to raising the usual cereals, but 
to stockraising also, a specialty being made of Chester White swine. He served in the 
Union army from September, 1864, to May 10, 1865, in the Fifty-third Indiana Regi- 
ment, and during that time was on detailed service. He was justice of the peace a 
number of years in Green township, was township clerk all the time he was in Iowa, 
and is a member of the board of directors of the Northern Indiana and Southern 
Michigan Agricultural Association. He has one daughter. Myrtle A., who was born 
in Iowa February 4, 1871. At the early age of fifteen years she began school teach- 
ing, and is now one of the most successful educators of St. Joseph county. Mr. 
Ullery is a member of the G. A. R., and belongs to the co-operative association known 
as the Union Threshing Company, which has been in successful operation for six- 
teen years. Daniel D. Robertson was born in Warren county, Ohio, September 10, 
1815, and in 1824 moved to Indiana and located in Wayne county with his father, 



MEMOIRS OF lyDIASA. 429 

■where he was engaged in farming and harness making until 1836, at which time St. 
Joseph county, Ind. , became his home, and here he resided, in Green township, un- 
til his death, on September 7, 1S91, at the age of seventy-six years. His wife was 
a daughter of John Bishop, and was born in Waj-oe county, Ind., January 31, 1832, 
and died September 11, 1891, her husband having passed away on the 7th, only 
three days before. They were buried together September 12, in the Sumption 
Prairie Cemetery, Green township, St. Joseph Co., Ind. 

Joseph TTlert. deceased, was one of the iirst settlers of Clay township, and owed 
his nativity to Huntingdon, Penn., where he was born about the year 1779, to 
Stephen Ulery and wife. The paternal grandfather was a German by birth, and 
during the very early history of this country came thither and took up his residence 
in Pennsylvania at a period when the ludians were quite troublesome. Stephen 
Ulery was born in Pennsylvania in 1751, and throughout life followed the occupation 
of farming in that State, his death occurring in 1836, at the age of eighty-five years 
and five months. He reared a family of three sons and three daughters. Joseph, 
like his worthy father before him, was reared to a farm life, and upon starting out 
to light the battle of life for himself, it was but natural that he should choose that 
as his life's calling. He was married about 1803, to Miss Catherine Cripe, who was 
born in Pennsylvania in 1782, to John Cripe, who was one of the early settlers of 
Montgomery county, Ohio, where he lived until his death. The union of Mr. and 
Mrs. Ulery resulted in the birth of thirteen children: Samuel, Susie, Betsy, Stephen, 
John, Joseph, Jacob. Mary, Hannah, Catherine. Barbara, David and Esther. In 
1807 Mr. Ulery, with his family, emigrated from Pennsylvania to Moutgomery 
county, Ohio, where he had entered 166 acres of land the year before, and on this 
land he erected a log cabin and at once began the arduous work of clearing. Four 
years later he settled on another woodland farm nearer the town of Dayton, where 
he remained until the fall of 1836, when he removed to St. Joseph county, Ind., for 
the purpose of procuring more land, as he had a large family and desired to provide 
for them properly. The family arrived in Clay township September IS, 1836, being 
twelve days on the road, and settled on land where St. Mary's Academy now stands, 
in the vicinity of which Mr. Ulery had entered nearly one thousand acres about 
1831. There had been no improvements whatever made at the time of their settle- 
ment, and they at once began to erect a log house, 16x20 feet. In this they lived 
until the spring of 1838, when they settled on Palmer's Prairie on which Mr. Ulery 
eventually died in 1869, being over ninety years of age. His wife died several years 
earlier, when seventy-three years old. Stephen Ulery, son of Joseph, was born in 
Huntingdon county, Penn., April 12, 1806, and was but one year old when his par- 
ents removed to Montgomery county, Ohio, where his first knowledge of the " world 
of books'" was acquired in the old-time subscription schools, but when quite young 
he was apprenticed to the woolen manufacturer's trade, at which he continued to 
work for four years. At the end of that time he had become sufficiently well versed 
in the business to assume its management, and he successfully conducted the bus- 
iness for ten years. He was married in April, 1827, to Elizabeth dinger, a native 
of Maryland, and four children were born of this union: Daniel; Mary, deceased; 
Christiana and Susan. At the time he removed to St. Joseph county, Ind., his father 
sold the woolen mill of which Stephen had charge and which he operated for one- 
third of the product, and since coming to Indiana he has devoted his entire time 
and attention to farming. He first entered 160 acres of land, but had deeded a 
portion of the same to his children, although he has retained a good farm for him- 
self. Although he has attained to the advanced age of eighty-six years, he has an 
excellent memory and is quite active. His wife was called from life July 5, 1881, 
both being members of the German Baptist Church. Politically, he has always been 
a Republican. Joseph Ulery, son of Joseph and Catherine (Cripe) Ulery, was born 
in Montgomery county, Ohio, October 15, 1809, and the occupation of farming has 
always received his attention. He was married in his native county June 10, 1831, 



430 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

to Mary dinger, a native of Pennsylvania, wbo, when young, was taken by her par 
ents to Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Ulery four children were given: Catherine; Many; 
Joseph and Sarah A., deceased. Mr. Ulery came with his people to this section in 
1836, and still resides on the farm on which he first located. Although the land 
was wholly unimproved, he at once erected a log cabin and began clearing his land 
of timber and brushwood, and although tliis was slow work, he was eventually suc- 
cessful, and in time his 160 acres of land was one of the best improved places in the 
township. At the present time his home farm consists of ninety-seven acres, of 
which twenty acres are timber land. He is a worthy and active member of the 
German Baptist Church, and politically a Republican. Although he is quite 
advanced in years, he is still quite active, and during the fifty-six years that he has 
resided in Clay township has been considered one of her foremost citizens. He was 
left a widower in December, 1887, and is now living retired from the active duties 
of life. 

S.\MUEL F. Uleky is a descendant of one of the pioneer families of Elkhart 
county, Ind., and inherits many of the worthy and sterling traits of his German 
ancestors. His great-grandfather came to this country about 1790, and spelled his 
name Ulrieh, but this has been Anglicized to Ulery. He was married in this country 
to Miss Elizabeth Leer, located in the vicinity of Johnstown, Penu., where he owned 
a valley farm, over which the great flood of May, 1888, swept. In 1818 he sold this 
farm with the intention of moving to Ohio, and for that purpose he and his family 
went down the Ohio River on a boat and settled on a farm two miles west of Dayton, 
Ohio, upon which they lived until 1831, when they sold out and took up their resi- 
dence in Elkhart county, purchasing land one mile west of Goshen, where Mr. 
Ulery's death occurred in 1846. After his location in Indiana he made eleven trips 
over the road on horseback from Goshen to Dayton, Ohio. His children were: 
Samuel, Daniel, John, Levi, Jacob and Lydia. Samuel, the eldest of this family, 
was born December 25, 1812, and was brought up on his father's farm in Cambria 
county, Penn. , and at the age of six years was taken by them to Dayton, Ohio, and 
in 1831 came with them to Goshen, and here he assisted his father in clearing the 
home farm, which consisted of 240 acres. At the time of their settlement there 
were but two houses in Goshen and two small stores. Elder Jacob Studebaker was 
the first Dunkard preacher to move near Goshen, and he gave the Bible name to the 
town. Samuel Ulery had limited education, but he was a typical pioneer, being a 
great hunter and very fond of fishing. His brother, Daniel, was also very fond of 
the chase, and during the days of plentiful game, killed over five hundred deer, of 
which he kept an account. The early pioneers made considerable money in hunting 
deer and other wild animals, besides supplying their families with meat, and Samuel 
Ulery and his brother were not behind the early settlers in so doing. Samuel was 
married to Miss Mary Fease, and their union resulted in the birth of ten children: 
Elizabeth, Jacob, John, David, Lydia, Hannah, Benjamin, Samuel, Mary and Sarah 
A., all of whom lived to reach mature years. Samuel Ulery entered and settled on 
160 acres of wild land in Clinton township, which he, in time, cleared and converted 
into a good farm, and on which his children were born and reared, and his widow 
now resides. Like his worthy father, he was a devout member of the Dunkard 
Church, was the soul of honor in every transaction, and was trusted as guardian for 
a number of orphan children, and was administrator of several estates. He was 
interested in the cause of education, assisted in establishing good schools, and as his 
views on all subjects were sound and practical, his advice on various matters was 
often sought by his neighbors, and was given in a cheerful and deferential, yet 
decided manner. He was followed to the grave by a large concourse of people, for 
he had won the hearty liking and respect of all with whom he came in contact, and 
in this manner they testified their regard and respect to his memory. Samuel F. 
Ulery, his son, and the immediate subject of this notice, first saw the light of day 
June 17, 1849, on his father's farm, and here his first labor as a tiller of the soil was 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 431 

done, for when he was not pursuing his studies in the district school near his rural 
home, he was wielding the hoe or following the plow. Upon attaining manhood he 
married Sarah Schrock, daughter of Jacob D. and Lydia (Kenagy) Schrock, and to 
their union two sons were given: Charles C. and Melvin C For some time after 
his marriage Mr. Ulery resided on the old homestead, but in 1877 he moved on to a 
portion of his present farm, which then consisted of forty acres, but by determined 
effort and unceasing industry he increased his farm to 142 acres, upon which he has 
made many valuable improvements, and now has a neat and well-tilled farm, of 
which he may well feel proud, as it is the result of his own and his worthy wife's 
hard and persistent toil. In 1889 he built a pretty and tasteful residence, which is 
fitted up with many modern improvements and conveniences, and is furnished in an 
attractive and beautiful manner, showing many evidences of refined and cultivated 
taste. Much time and labor has heen e.xpended upon the lawn, and it is dotted 
with beautiful trees and ornamental shrubs. Taking it all in all, it presents the 
most beautiful and tasteful appearance of any place in the county, and is a credit to 
both Mr. and Mrs. Ulery. Mr. Ulery is a practical tiller of the soil, a stockraiser, 
and deals quite extensively in blooded horses. He is a Democrat politically, has 
been school director for years, and has given his sens good educations. He and his 
wife and their son Melvin C. belong to the Progressive Dunkard Church, but Charles 
is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Ulery has set a good example in regard 
to beautifying and adorning his home, and being very progressive he keeps thor- 
oughly apace with the times, not only in regard to the conduct and management of 
his farm, but on the current topics of the day. He stands high as an intelligent and 
public-spirited citizen, and throughout his useful career his honor has never been 
questioned. His son Charles was married to Miss Eva Gronker, by whom he has one 
child. He is a farmer of Clinton township. Mr. and Mrs. Ulery have an adopted 
daughter named Cora, whom they are giving a good education, the comforts of a 
beautiful home, and the affection of a daughter. 

John Ulery is a worthy member of the old pioneer Ulery family of Elkhart county. 
His grandfather was a Pennsylvanian by birth, and from there first removed to 
Montgomery county, Ohio, and then to Elkhart county, Ind., and in 1833 settled on 
the Elkhart road, one mile from Goshen. He married Elizabeth Leer and was the 
father of seven children: Samuel, Daniel, John, Jacob, Levi, Susan and Lydia. 
The father of these children was an industrious, enterprising pioneer, and owing to 
his own efforts became the owner of a large amount of real estate, and assisted each 
of his children to a good start in life. He was a Dunkard in his religious views and 
like all who profess that faith, he was earnest, sincere and strictly honorable. His 
son Samuel was also born oq Pennsylvania soil and when his parents made their 
various changes of residence he remained with them and received such education as 
could be obtained in the schools of his day. After his arrival in Elkhart county he 
put in a small crop for his father and otherwise assisted him to get settled. He was 
later married to Mary Fease who bore him the following children: Elizabeth, Jacob, 
John, David, Lydia, Hannah, Benjamin, Samuel, Mary and Sarah A. After his 
marriage he lived two years on Elkhart Prairie, then came to Clinton township and 
entered 160 acres of land, which he succeeded in clearing after many a month of 
hard labor. For a further history of the family see sketch of Samuel F. Ulery. His 
son John, whose name heads this sketch, was born in Clinton township, February 
17, 1840, received a common-school education and in his youth was initiated into 
the mysteries of farming, a calling he has followed throughont life with good results. 
At the age of tweuty-tive years on the 25th of December, 1864, he was married to 
Mary, daugther of Jonathan and Saloma (Wyland) Myers the former of whom was 
one of the respected jiioneer farmers of the county. His father, Jacob Myers, was 
of Pennsylvania Dutch stock from Lancaster county, h\xi afterward became a resi- 
dent of Alontgomery county, Ohio. He was the father of children as follows: David, 
Jonathan, Barbara, Katie, Elizabeth, George, John and Daniel. Jacob Mvers resided 



432 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

on a farm in Ohio until quite an old man, when he came to Indiana and lived with 
his Boa Jonathan until his death at the age of eighty-six years, at which time he 
was in full communion with the Dunkard Church. Jonathan Myers was born in 
Montgomery county, Ohio, August 17, 1816, and although he received but few 
advantages, he learned to read and write. He came to Elkhart county, Ind., in 1827, 
at which time he was about twenty-one years of age, and entered eighty acres of 
land in Clinton township, but returned to Montgomer}' county later and was there 
married in 1838, after which he returned to his claim in Indiana with his young 
bride. He cleared and improved his land and increased it to 380 acres, in fact, 
became wealthy, for besides being intelligent and far-seeing, he was energetic. He 
was a deacon for many years in the Dunkard Church, was a devout Christian and 
wielded much influence in his church. His children were: Elizabeth, Jacob, John, 
Mary, Sarah and Esther. He lived to be seventy-five years of age, dying on the 
26th of March, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. John Ulerv are the parents of two sons: William 
H., born August 11, 1866, and Ira A., born April, 28, 1869. In 1865 Mr. Ulery 
bought a farm of ninety acres in Clinton township, and as he received seventy acres 
with his wife, he now has control of 160 acres. He is a practical agriculturist, his 
efforts have been prospered, and he stands deservedly high owing to his honest and 
straightforward course through life. Like all the members of his family he is a 
Dunkard in his religious views, and politically is a stanch Democrat. His son 
William H. was married to Phoebe E., daughter of Jacob and Mary A. Stutzman, 
and by her he is the father of two children. He is a farmer and is well educated, as 
is also his brother. The latter, Ira A., attended the Normal College at Millersburg 
two terms, and both are energetic and exemplary young men. 

Jacob L. Uleet is a member of a pioneer family of this county, the meml)ers of 
which are numerous, prosperous and honorable. The founder of the family came 
from Germany and located in Pennsylvania, where the grandfather of the subject 
of this sketch, Daniel Ulery, became a successful tiller of the soil, and was married 
in Cambria county to Susannah Miller, which union eventually resulted in the birth 
of eight children: Jacob. John, Elizabeth, Susan, Mary, Esther, Hannah and Sarah. 
Mr. Ulery was a progressive agriculturist, was for many years a Dunkard preacher, 
and taught his children the religious principles which had so long been followed by 
the members of the family. His son, Jacob, was born in Cambria county, Penn., 
and in the State of his birth was married to Susan, daughter of Jacob and Lydia 
(Ulery) Leer, and in due course of time six children gathered about their fireside: 
Daniel, Jacob, John, Mary, Susan and Lydia. In 1817, with his wife and three 
children, he removed to Ohio and settled near the city of Dayton, where he was 
called from life in 1821, at the untimely age of thirty-three years. His son. Jacob 
L. , owes his nativit}' to Cambria county, Penn., for there he first saw the light of 
day on January 9, 1812. He was taken to Ohio when five years of age, and, owing 
to the early taking off of the head of the family, he obtained but little education, 
but through his own efforts managed to learn to read and write. He resided in the 
vicinity of Dayton, Ohio, until eighteen j-ears of age, and learned the carpenter's 
trade, but in 1830 came to Elkhart county, Ind., with his mother and step-father, 
Jacob Studebaker, his brothers, John and Daniel, coming at the same time. Mr. 
Studebaker settled one mile west of Goshen, where he followed the trade of a car- 
penter, and also preached the doctrines of the Dunkard Church, being ordained a 
minister of that denomination by Daniel Cripe, who was the first Dunkard preacher 
in northern Indiana. Jacob L. Ulery worked at the carpenter's trade with Mr. 
Studebaker, and with him erected the first building in Goshen in 1831. This was a 
store, and was built for three men by the name of McCord, Hanes and Norris. A 
log cabin stood a short distance away, but was never considered in the town. It was 
a liquor store kept by a man by the name of Bissel. After following his trade 
for four years, during which time he erected many of the early buildings of 
the town, among which was the first court-house, he went to Montgomery county. 



MEMOIRS OF IXDI.iyA. 433 

Ohio, in 1833, and was there united in marriage to Miss Susannah, daughter of 
Andrew and Catherine (Broombaugh) Warner, after which he returned to Goshen 
and settled on some new and unbroken land three miles northwest of the town on 
the Elkhart road. After residing there from 1834 to 1836 he moved to his present 
farm, which then consisted of 160 acres, and was heavily covered with timl^er. He 
swung his ax to such a purpose that he soon had his laud cleared and under culti- 
vation, and liy industry and perseverance put it in good farming condition. He has 
always been public spirited, and has done his full share of work in developing the 
county and bringing it up to its full standard of agricultural excellence. He has 
always adhered to the faith of his fathers and is a Dunkard in religious belief, and 
has reared his children in the same faith. Their names are as follows: Levi, Lydia, 
Mary, Solomon, Elizabeth, Susan, Jacob, Aaron, Sarah and Amanda. John Ulery, 
a brother of Jacob and uncle of the subject of this sketch, came to this section from 
Montgomery county, Ohio, in 1833, and lirought his family with him, settling on the 
Elkhart road, one mile from Goshen. He married Elizabeth Leer, an aunt of the 
subject of this sketch, and the names of their children, and a brief account of them- 
selves, is given in the sketch of John Ulery. Jacob L. Ulery is now in his eighty- 
first year, and, although his hair is covered with the frost of years, his intellect 
shows but little the ravages of time, and his memory carries him backward to pio- 
neer days. 

Levi Ulery is a descendant of Samuel Ulery, who came from Germany to this 
country and settled in the vicinity of the now famous Johnstown, Penn., where 
he brought up his family consisting of the following children: Jacob, John, 
Hannah, Madalina, Mary, Sallie and Esther. He was a farmer and minister of the 
Dunkard Church and died on the farm in Pennsylvania, where he had labored so 
many years. John, his son, was born on this farm, in Cambria county, and was 
married to Mrs. Elizabeth Stutzman, who bad formerly been a Miss Leer, and, 
their union resulted in the birth of seven children: Samuel, Daniel, Susan, John, 
Jacob, Lydia and Levi. After the birth of three of his children Mr. Ulery moved 
to Washington county, Ohio, and settled on a tract of timber land, where, like the 
majority of pioneers, he labored faithfully early and late and in time cleared his 
land from the woods and carved him a fine home out of the forests. In 1833 he 
took up his abode in Elkhart county, Ind.. the journey thither being made in a four- 
horse Pennsylvania wagon, two other like vehicles and four teams being employed 
to convey the remainder of his goods thither. He took up his residence on 240 
acres of land one mile northwest of Goshen, nearly all of which was covered with 
timber, and with the help of his stalwart sons he cleared this land and made one of 
the best farms in the county. He added to his original purchase until he at one 
time owned 740 acres of land, and when his sons left the shelter of the parental roof 
to make homes for themselves, he gave each of them a farm, the dower of each of 
his daughters being a considerable sum of money. Mr. Ulery was one of the 
founders of the Duukard Church in Elkhart county, assisted largely in increasing 
its membership, but died at the age of fifty-nine years, before his plans had been 
perfected. The natal day and year of his son Levi, the subject of this sketch, was 
October 7, 1822, his birth occurring in Montgomery county, Ohio, where he re- 
ceived the common-school education usually giveij the youth of his time, until he 
was eleven years of age, at which time he located with his parents in Elkhart 
county. He was brought up to the hard work of clearing and grubljing land, split- 
ting rails, etc., but while so doing strengthened his muscles and acquired a tine 
physique, and upon establishing a home of his own at the age of twent3'-nine years 
he was presented with a good farm of eighty acres by his father. His marriage to 
Miss Susannah Bushard, who was born on July 12, 1834, took place in the month of 
October, 1852, she being a daughter of Ellis and Rebecca (Bosil) Bussard. She bore 
Mr. Ulery the following children: Solomon, born April 13, 1853; Amos, born 
October 12, 1858; Sarah A., born October 26, 1860; Amanda, born August 24, 1862; 



434 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

William, born July 24, 1864; Enoch, born AjsrilS, 1866, and Jesse, born December 25, 
1867. Mr. Ulery is now the owner of 100 acres of land, which his tlirift and energy 
has made into a very valuable farm. He has been a deacon in the Dunkard Church 
for more than twenty years in the doctrines of which church his wife is also a be- 
liever. Mr. Ulery is a very quiet and unpretentious man and like many of the 
members of his church he takes no interest in politics. All his children have re- 
ceived fair educational avantages, and he has taken much interest in having good 
schools and good roads in his township. He stands deservedly high for integrity of 
character, industry and straightforward adherence to good moral principles, in 
which he has set a good example to his children, both by precept and example. 
His son Solomon is a clerk in a grocery store in Goshen, and is married to Ella 
Burns. Sarah married Samuel Johnson, of Goshen, and is the mother of three 
children; Mary E. married Nicholas Woods, of Goshen, and has one child; Amanda 
married Aaron Cripe, a farmer of Harrison township, by whom she has one child; 
William married Lillie Plauk by whom he has one child, and is a baker of Goshen; 

Enoch married Fannie by whom he has one child, and is in the grocery 

business in Goshen, in which business he is doing well. 

The Wisler Familt. Among the distinguished old families of Elkhart county, 
Ind. , none are more worthy of mention than the Wislers, the founder of the family 
in this section being John Wisler, a native of Bucks county, Penn., where he first 
saw the light of day in 1800, his parents being Christian and Susan (Halderman) 
Wisler, the former of whom was born during the Revolutionary period in the State 
of Pennsylvania, of German parents. He made his home in the State of his nativ- 
ity until he paid the last debt of nature, and there reared to honorable maturity a 
family of ten children, leaving them, upon his death, not only a good properly to 
be divided among them, but what was rather to be desired than great riches — the 
heritage of an honorable name. The names of the members of this family were as 
follows: Jonas (who died when young), John, Elizabeth, Anthony, Hannah, Jacob 
(who settled in Harrison township at an early day and became the father of John W. 
Wisler, an extensive importer of horses), Samuel, Mary, Sarah and Susan. The 
most of these children married, moved west, and a number settled in Elkhart county, 
Ind. Their father died in 1830 and the mother in 1835, in Ohio, at which time 
both were quite aged. Of their children John was the one to establish the family 
in Elkhart county, Ind., as above stated. When a young man of twenty summers 
he went to Columbiana county, Ohio, where he entered some Government land, 
opened up a farm and made his home for a number of years. In 1824 he gave his 
heart and hand to Miss Sophia Stauffer, a daughter of Henry and Mary Stauffer, 
who were early pioneers of Ohio from Westmoreland county, Penn., the former's 
birth occurring February 8, 1776, and the latter's July 15, 1779. their respective 
deaths taking place February 20, 1854, and August 5, 1824. They reared eight 
children, as follows: John, born December 7, 1796; Elizabeth, July 14, 1799; 
Joseph, September 30, ISOl; Jacob, Mav 18, 1804; Sophia, August 12, 1806; Mary, 
April 1, 1809; Henry, August 8, 1812; and Abraham, September 12, 1814. The 
most of these children reached mature years and several of them settled in Indiana. 
In the spring of 1849 John Wisler and his family emigrated to Elkhart county, 
Ind., and settled on the farm now owned by Jacob H. Wisler, on the line of Union 
and Locke townships. He entered land to the extent of 160 acres, on which he 
started to build a home at once, and also soon began clearing his property, which 
was heavily covered with timber. He was a strong Republican throughout life, and 
at all times manifested much interest in the popular questions of the day. He 
voted for William Henry Harrison, also for his grandson. Benjamin Harrison, and at 
the time of casting his last vote he had sons, grandsons and great-grandsons, forty 
in all, who also cast their votes for Gen. Benjamin Harrison. During his early 
residence in the State, for twenty years he carried the mail summer and winter from 
Elkhart to his neighbors. He was well known in Elkhart county and enjoyed the 



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FRANKLIN MILES, M. D. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 437 

friendship of maQy. He was a pleasant companion even xip to bis last days, and 
although he passed through many hardships during the pioneer days of this section, 
he never lost his geuiality of character, his kindness of heart and his warm sym- 
pathy with the cause of tbe oppressed. He died in 1890 at the patriarchal age of 
ninety years, haviag for many years been a member of the Mennouite Church. He 
was well known for the pulilic spirit he always mauifested, and in the home circle 
he was kiud, considerate and generous, as well as employing these qualities in his 
relations with others. His wife, Sophia, was born in 1806 and died in Elkhart 
county in 1876, she being also a member of the Meunonite Church, and in every 
sense of the word a helpmate to her husband. She bore her husband eleven chil- 
dren, as follows: Mary A. became the wife of Samuel Hoover, of Union township; 
Henry, who is a farmer of La Grange county, Ind., became the father of nine chil- 
dren, three of whom are dead; Isaac, a resident of Lock township; Jacob; Jonas; 
Sarah, wife of Samuel Ruckman, of Nappauee; Anthony, who is a prominent farmer 
of Harper county, Kan.; John S., a resident of Marshall county, Ind. ; Alpheus, a 
farmer of Harper county, Kan. ; and Cornelius, also of that State and county. Two 
children died young. The sons who are living are well-to-do farmers, and the most 
of them are practical mechanics. John ^Yisler tilled his large farm until 1870, 
when he sold it to his son Jacob, who at present resides on it with his family. The 
life of John Wisler is a good illustration of the old saying that " there is no royal 
road to fortune," for throughout his long and well-spent life he found that in his 
case wealth could be accumulated only by the exercise of brain and muscle, and for 
this reason he labored early and late in order to acquire a competence for his family, 
and in the confidence, respect and affection with which his wife and children 
regarded him, he realized that the end justified the means. 

Jonas Wisler was the fourth child born to John and Sophia Wisler, his birth 
occurring in Green township, Columbiana county, Ohio, April 3, 1831, and there on 
the home farm he grew to manhood, his youthful days being spent at farm work and 
in attending the public schools of his day, which were conducted in the vicinity of 
his rural home. His father owned quite an extensive distillery and many of his 
early days were spent in that establishment. At the age of twenty-one years he de- 
cided to commence the battle of life for himself, and about one year later was united 
in marriage to Miss Elizabeth J. Wilson, a native of Virginia and a daughter of 
Samuel aad Mary (Daugherty) Wilson, the former of whom first saw the light of 
day in the old dominion in 1790, and was a son of Richard and Ann ( Anderson) 
Wilson, who crossed the ocean to this country from England when young. Samuel 
Wilson was married in Virginia and with his wife moved to Indiana in 1837 and 
located near Waterford, in Elkhart county, but at the end of a few years moved to 
Harrison township, and at a still later period to Locke township, and on a farm in 
that section he and his worthy wife passed from life. Samuel Wilson was one of the 
early pioneers of this section, was a great hunter in early times, and died in Elkhart 
county in 18-17, at the age of fifty-seven years, at which time he was an earnest 
member of the United Brethren Church, an honorable and public-spirited citizen, 
and politically a Democrat. His wife, Mary Daugherty, was born in Maryland and 
her union with Mr. Wilson resulted in the birth of seven children: Andrew J., who 
died at the age of twenty-one years, in 1841; Mary (Mrs. Stewart), of Union town- 
ship; Reuben, and an unnamed infant that died in early childhood; Isaiah, a resident 
of Nebraska; Washington, who was a farmer of Marshall county, died in 1891; 
Elizabeth is the wife of Mr. Jonas Wisler; and Alexander, who died in 1860, at the 
age of twenty-one. The mother of these children died in 1865, on December 14, 
and like her husband, was in full communion with the Lutheran Church at the time 
of her death. Mrs. Wisler was born on March 16, 1835, and was an infant at the 
time of her parents' removal to Elkhart county, and on the farm on which she and 
her husband are now happily residing, she grew up. Like her parents before her, 
she is a member of the United Brethren Church and has endeavored to rear her 

26 



438 PICTORIAL AJS'D BIOGRAPHICAL 

children in that belief. She has borne her husband seven children, three of whom 
are living: John W.. born May 24:, 1857; Ella J. was born on October 11, 1S60, is 
the wife of Josiah Smeltzer, of Nappanee, hy whom she has had three children; 
Jonas J., deceased, and Charles L. and Ray V. are living; and Sarah S., who was 
born September 4, 1865, married Charles W. Camp, of Garrett, and has one child, 
Maude E. The children who are deceased are: Huldah. who was born April 30, 
1854, and died March 20, 1873; Loriug \\ ., born April 1, 1856, and died May 15, 
1856; Samuel M., born July 16, 1858, and died in January, 1859; and Mary S., 
born May 23, 1S63, and died August 23, 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Wisler are prominent 
in the affairs of the county, and esjaecially so in their township, and are law abiding, 
generous and kind-hearted. Besides their own children they have reared other 
children to manhood and womanhood — Martin Troxel and Mary M. Berk. Mr. 
and Mrs. Wisler have a large circle of warm friends and are prominent in chiirch 
affairs. Their children who are living are well-to-do and are among the highly 
respected citizens of the township. Mr. Wisler is a Republican in politics and has 
held a number of minor offices in his section. In early days he and his brother, 
Isaac, were iu the manufacturing business at Locke, where thej' carried on a thriving 
trade; but for a number of years past Mr. Wisler has been successfully engaged 
in tilling the soil and is now in good circumstances and in an independent finan- 
cial condition. The establishment of enterprises for the benefit of his section has 
always found in Mr. Wisler a liberal and active supporter, churches, schools, good 
roads, etc., being the principal objects of his assistance and encouragement. John 
W. Wisler, his son, was born May 24, 1857, in the town of Locke, Ind., and on his 
father's farm in that township he grew to manhood, his literary education being 
acquired in the schools of his district and the village school of Locke. Possessing 
a mind which was quick to grasp at all objects and ideas that presented them- 
selves, he made good progress in his studies and acquired a practical business 
education. He worked in his father's mill until about fourteen years of age, at which 
time he moved with his parents to the old homestead, in Lock township, and from 
that time until he was nearly thirty yeais of age he was a worthy tiller of the soil, 
and as such proved himself thrifty, intelligent and consequently successful. He 
then came to the conclusion that it was not good for man to live alone, and therefore 
married him a wife and started to improve a farm of his own, and in this work found 
a true helpmate in the lady he chose for his wife. Miss Eliza McDonald, a daughter 
of John J. McDonald, a sketch of which family appears iu this work. Mrs. Wisler was 
born in Harrison township March 2, 1867. and grew to womanhood in Harrison and 
Union townships, attending the district schools until her marriage, at the age of nine- 
teen, to John W. Wisler. Soon after this event they located on an improved farm 
in Locke township, on the old Plymouth road, and although the farm consisted only 
of forty acres, it is tilled in an admirable manner, is well improved with good 
buildings and is in every respect a desirable farm. The most of his land is devoted 
to raising grain and stock, his knowledge of each of these branches of agriculture 
being considered sound and practical. He has always supported the principles of 
Republicanism, is prominent in politics, and in 1890 was elected assessor of Locke 
township, the duties of which he discharged in a very praiseworthy and satisfactory 
manner. He is a promising and rising young farmer, is honest, sober and industrious 
and has sufficient enterprise to make his future prosperity assured. In his comfort- 
able home he enjoys the society of his amiable and intelligent wife and has two 
handsome and promising children: Madge E., who was born October 2, 1888, and 
Charles Otto, who was born November 1, 1889. Blanche, who was born in 1892, 
in the month of March, died twelve days after her birth. 

Jacob H. Wisler is the fifth child of John and Sophia Wisler, and his natal 
day was October 17, 1833. Mahoning county, Ohio, was his native place, but when 
a boy of sixteen years he came with his parents to Indiana, and, like all his brothers, 
assisted on the home farm and attended the district schools. Upon reaching his 



ilEMOIIiS OF INDIANA. 439 

majority he began driving a team for his brothers, who were in the milling and 
manufacturing business at Locke, and continued in their employ until 1858, when, 
on May 13 of that year, he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Troxell, 
a daughter of Peter Troxell, aa early pioneer of Wayne county, Ohio, where he 
still resides. She was left motherless when an infant, and was herself called from 
life on April 27, 1S66, at the age of twenty-five years, having become the mother of 
two children: William H. , who was born March 26, 1859, and died September 23, 
1890, leaving a wife, Mary, to whom he was married April 27, 1885, and two chil- 
dren — Homer and Harley, who are living in Nappanee. Her name was formerly 
Mary A. Martin. Lewis A., who was born January 13, 1863, aud who married 
Ida Miller, of Michigan, December 24, 1889, is at present a blacksmith at South 
Bend. In 1868 Mr. Wi.sler's second union took place, Sarah, the daughter of Isaac 
and Anna (Kilmer) Kilmer becoming his wife. Isaac Kilmer was born in Penn- 
sylvania, January 21, 1814, and was a son of Isaac and Eva (Shelly) Kilmer, who 
were native Germans and early settlers of the Keystone State and afterward of 
Ashland county, Ohio. In that county Isaac was married, and in that State and in 
Indiana, to which he came in 1853, he reared his family. He became a wealthy 
farmer of Bangor township, Elkhart county, and died on March 25, 1883. He 
was a member of the Mennoni-e Church and was in sympathy with the Democratic 
party, and a public-spirited, enterprising citizen. The wife of Isaac Kilmer, Anna 
Kilmer, was born on Pennsylvania soil Jane 14, 1810, a daughter of John and 
Magdaline Kilmer. She died in Elkhart county, Ind., at the home of her daughter, 
Mrs. Wisler, January 23, 1892, having been an exemplary Christian in every re- 
pect, and a noble, faithful and wise wife and mother. She bore her husband five 
children: Eliza, who died when young; Mary, who was born on May 24, 1841, 
married Abraham B. Holdeman. of this county; Sarah, who married Mr. Wisler, was 
born June 14, 1844, in Ashland county, Ohio; David, who was bom October 5, 1846, 
is married, a man of family, and lives on a part of the old Kilmer homestead; and Dr. 
Samuel L., who was born April 12. 1849, and is now a successful practicing physi- 
cian of South Bend. The Kilmers are among the most reliable and substantial 
residents of the county, and being industrious and reasonably prudent in their ex- 
penditures, they are all in comfortable circumstances. Mrs. Wisler is a member of 
the Mennonite Church and the greater part of her life has been spent in this 
county. Jacob Wisler and his wife have three children: Isaac S., who was bom 
January 23, 1869, is farming the home place, is a Republican in politics and is a 
promising young man; Harvey F. was born August 19, 1870, aud died August 23, 
1877; Anna S. was bom November 24, 1873, and is at home. Mr. and Mrs. Wisler 
enjoy a comfortable competence and a good home, as well as the respect of those 
who know them, and politically he is in sympathy with the Republican party and 
has always taken a deep interest in the current issues of the day. His farm com- 
prises 150 acres of well-improved land, it being the old family estate, and has been 
farmed and resided on almost as long as any place in this section of the county. 
Mr. Wisler experienced the hardships of pioneer life, and during the days when 
wild game was numerous, he was an experienced hunter, and killed many deer. He 
is decidedly public spirited, and by influence, money and personal assistance he has 
aided in the establishment of churches, schools and kindred institutions and in the 
improvement of the public highways; in fact, all worthy enterprises have found in 
him a liberal supporter and an intelligent and practical adviser. He is a deacon 
of the Mennonite Church, of which William H,, Mary, his wife, and Anna .S.were 
also members. 

Is.vAC Wisler, one of the elder children of the worthy John Wisler, was born in 
Columbiana, now Mahoning county, Ohio, February 14, 1829. During his early 
boyhood he assisted his father on the farm, but later gave his attention to blacksmith - 
ing, which he followed for some years, and also became an intelligent machinist. 
He became a resident of Elkhart county, Ind., at the age of twenty years, and in 



440 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

the country, in the vicinity of his home, he worked at his trade, first opening a shop 
at Waterford in 1850, afterward in Locke in lSr)3, at which time the place was 
known as Wisler Town. After some time he and his brother Jonas started amamifact- 
uring woodenware establishment, making a specialty of wooden bowls, which business 
he successfully continued until 1864, when he sold his interest and has since followed 
his trade of machinist and blacksmithiug, as well as farming. He has ever been 
quite active in the political matters of his county, and has always supported the men 
and measures of the Republican party, and being also public spirited he has sup- 
ported schools, churches, and, in fact, all movements tending to benefit the sec- 
tion in which he lives. His own education was obtained in the public schools of Ohio, 
and thatsystem of education has found in him a substantial and earnest supporter. He 
has a farm of 160 acres, all of which is well improved with good buildings, fences, 
etc., and he also owns sixty acres of heavy timber land in the same neighborhood. 
Considerable of his attention has been given to saw-milling, and being an intelligent 
machinist he has made a decided success of this business. He was justice of the 
peace of Locke township from 1854 to 1865, was township trustee for a number 
of years, and also held the position of assessor. He may be said to be a self-made 
man, for he began the battle of life for himself on a heavily wooded tract of Govern- 
ment land, but is now in independent circumstances financially. In 1858 he was 
married to Miss Rebecca M. Winder, daughter of Caleb and Margaret (Bloomfield) 
Winder, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania, a son of Joseph Winder, a 
prominent farmer of that State. Caleb's early life was spent on his father's farm, 
but in early life he also learned the hatter's trade, which he followed for some time, but 
after his removal to Stark county, Ohio, after his marriage, he taught school; im- 
proved a good farm and reared his family there. He died in 1840, at the age of 
forty-four years, his wife's death occurring in 1842, at the age of thirty-six years. 
She" was born in Crawford county, Peun., a daughter of Andrew Bloomfield, and she 
and her husband were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the latter being 
one of its class leaders, in politics a Whig, and a soldier in the War of 1812. To 
Caleb and his wife seven children were born: Louis, James, Warren (deceased), 
Samuel (deceased), Eli; Susan (Mrs. Truex), of Nappanee; Rebecca, wife of Isaac 
■Wisler. The latter was born in Ohio, October 30, 1837, and in 1858 her union with 
Mr. Wisler took place, which eventually resulted in the birth of seven children: Oli- 
ver P., born November 13, 1859. married Elsiua Bline, by whom he has four boys: 
Lester, Elias, Morris and Glynn (Oliver P. is living in Locke township on a farm, 
and is a Republican in politics); James M. was born in 1861 on July -24, married 
Delia Doromus. of Michigan, by whom he has three children; Albert was born Au- 
gust 24, 1863, and is attending school in Peoria. 111. ; Mary was born August 1, 1865; 
Lizzie married M. D. Jacobs, a railroad man, by whom he has two children, Harry 
and Ralph (she was born January 16, 1867); Edith was born September 23, 1871, 
and died at the age of three years, and Addie, who was born September 23, 1877, is 
teaching in the schools of Locke. Mr. and Mrs. Wisler are in the enjoyment of 
o-ood health, and are living on the farm on which they settled many years ago. 
Thev are held in high esteem by the citizens throughout that section, and are in 
every way worthy the good will of their fellows. 

John H. Whisler is an experienced and wealthy farmer of Harrison township, 
Elkhart Co., Ind., the great natural resources of which region have been devel- 
oped by the practical and intelligent toil of such men as Mr. Whisler, who is 
recognized as a man full of spirit and business enterprise. His father, Jacob Whis- 
ler, was born in Bucks county, Penn., to Christian and Susan (Holderman) Wisler, 
the former of whom was born during the Revolutionary period in the State of 
Pennsylvania of German parents. Jacob Whisler was a brother of John Wisler, 
the father of the Wislers residing in Locke and Union townships, but for some 
time past the name has been spelled differently. Jacob Whisler was reared on a 
farm in his native county, and upon the removal of his parents to Columbiana 



MEMOTRS OF INDIANA. 441 

coanty, Ohio, he made the change of location at the same time, and was thereafter- 
ward united in marriage n-ith iliss Mary Hoover, daughter of David Hoover, a 
sketch of whose family appears in this volume. Mary was bom la Franklin county, 
Penn. , and. like her husband, removed to Columbiana county, Ohio, with her par- 
ents. In 1847 Jacob Whisler removed to Elkhart county, Ind., with his family, 
making the journey through the wilderness by wagon, and settled on the farm on 
which John H. is now residing. Prior to this, however, he made the trip to the sec- 
tion on horseback and located the land, which amounted to 240 acres of fine wood- 
land. This farm he managed to clear by the exercise of all his energy and intelli- 
gence, and for over forty years tilled it in a highly satisfactory manner, not only 
deriving sustenance from it but managed to lay by a snug sum for a rainy day. He 
became a leading man in the affairs of his section, and in principle was a Repub- 
lican politically, but did not take a particularly active part in politics. He was a 
lifelong member of the Mennonite Church, and took an active part in church affairs, 
aiding the cause of Christianity by personal effort and with his means. He died in 
1889 at the age of eighty years, having spent a useful life. His wife, Mary, bore 
him seven children; five of whom are still living, their names being as follows: 
Hannah; Susan, who is the wife of Henry Culp, a prominent farmer of Harrison 
township; Magdaline, who died in 1880, was the wife of David Culp: Mary, wife 
of Joseph Culp, died in 1886; Elizabeth, who died when young, and John H. , the 
immediate subject of this sketch. The mother of these children was called from 
life in 1859, at the age of fifty-three yaars, having been a lifelong member of the 
Mennonite Church, and a most exemplary woman in every respect. She and her 
husband were useful and honorable citizens, and commanded respect from all with 
whom they were acquainted. John H. Whisler claims Mahoning county, Ohio, as 
the place of his nativity, in which section he first saw the light of day, August 28, 
1842, being the youngest of the family and only five years of age at the time of his 
parents' removal to the State of Indiana. His rudimentary education was obtained 
in the district schools in the vicinity of his home, but by considerable self-applica- 
tion he managed to acquire a good business education and eventually became a 
school teacher. He spent twenty years in the milling and lumber business at 
Wakarusa, in company with Mr. Henrj- Bichtel, both branches of industry meeting 
good success under the intelligent and careful management of these worthy gentle- 
men. Mr. Whisler is a self-made man, and throughout his well spent career he has 
been interested in farming and kindred pursuits, and is a member of the well-known 
firm that owns the Spring Brook Stock Farm, and is also a member of the Elkhart 
Belgium Draft Horse Importing Company. He is the owner of 350 acres of land, 
all of which is well improved and well located. His farm and home is one of the 
best improved places in the county, and his large bams are well filled with well- 
graded stock, in which he takes much pride and of which he is a good judge. The 
fine stock farm in which he is interested has exceptionally fine-stocked stables, and 
since it was founded in July, 1888, it has been held in very favorable estimation by 
the farmers of Elkhart county. The first year thirty three fine specimens of the 
Belgian draft horses were disposed of. the second year the merits of these beauti- 
ful and useful animals became better known, and their sales amounted to between 
S50,r>00 and -560,000. The following year $85,000 worth of stock was sold, and 
being located midway between Xappanee and Elkhart, the farm is very con- 
veniently located for shipping purposes. Mr. Whisler has always shown himself to 
be an honorable man, and in his business transactions this has had a good deal to 
do with his continuous success through life. Politically he has always been an 
active Republican, and enterprises for the good of his section have always found in 
him a liberal supporter. He is the owner of valuable property in Elkhart, in Union 
and Harrison townships, also a fine tract of land in Kansas. At the age of twenty- 
seven years he was united in marriage with Miss Christina Weaver, a daughter of John 
and Mary (Zimmerman) Weaver, who came to Elkhart coanty, Ind., from Lancaster 



442 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

county, Penn. , and the former is still a resident of this county. Mrs. W'hisler was 
born in Lancaster county, Penn., January 1, 1852, and has borne her husband three 
children: Noah, who died in 1892, January 24, at the age of twenty-one years, was 
a young man of much promise, and was married to Miss Annie Musser, daughter 
of Ephraim Musser, with whom she is now living; Jonas L., who was born August 
2, 1872, is assisting his father on the farm; and Emma, who was born January 10, 
1878, and is attending school at Goshen. Mr. Whisler lost his first wife some years 
ago, and for his second wife took Hettie Wagner, daughter of Jacob Wagner, a 
native of Ohio and a son of John Wagner, an early pioneer of that State, but is 
now a resident of Monroe, Mich. He and his wife were the parents of three chil- 
dren: Elmer, Hettie and Minnie, all of whom were reared in the faith of the United 
Brethren Church. Mrs. Whisler was born February 3, 1866, is an intelligent and 
accomplished lady, is skillful in the use of the needle and has a talent for music 
and painting. The family move in the highest social circles and are considered 
acquisitions to the section in which they reside. 

John S. Wisler is the eighth child of John and Sophia Wisler, and is one of the 
worthy, public spirited and successful agriculturists of Marshall county, Ind. , 
although the greater portion of his time has been spent in this county. He was 
born in Columbiana county, Ohio, February 6, 1842, and was seven years of age at 
the time of his parents' removal to this section, and here he attended the district 
schools in the vicinity of his home, and thus gained a good business education. 
Like his brothers he assisted on the home farm, and dutifully remained with his 
father until he attained his majority, when he began working at the carpenter's 
trade, and after becoming familiar with its details, he worked at it for some time. 
On October 18, 1866, he took for himself a wife in the person of Miss Lydia E. 
Ulery, a daughter of the old pioneer settler, Daniel Ulery, whose sketch is in this 
work. After his marriage he settled in the town of Locke, where he worked at his 
trade and assisted in building the mill at that place. In 1867 he brought the first 
steam thresher to the neighborhood, and after operating it with success for some 
time, he removed to the old homestead which he began to till, remaining on it for 
about three years. At the end of that time he purchased the farm where he now 
lives, in Marshall county, but he still has a warm regard for the county in which so 
many of the active years of his life were spent. He is the owner of 120 acres of well- 
improved land, on which are erected some tine buildings and substantial and neat 
fences. He has twenty-five acres of heavy timber land and is giving much of his 
attention to the raising of stock, iu which branch of agriculture he has been success- 
ful and for which he has a decided taste. He is with the Republican party in all 
its movements, is well posted on all matters of public interest, is public-spirited in 
all that the word implies, and in every respect is a credit to the class of business 
men which he represents. He is decidedly broad- gauged, and has not kept alone 
in the beaten tract of agriculture, but has followed other lines of interest which 
have paid him well, and he has now in his control a considerable amount of property. 
He is highly honored in the section in which he resides, and the people have shown 
sufficient confidence in his good judgment to elect him to various positions of 
trust. His wife was born on the old Ulery homestead in Union township, Elkhart 
Co., Ind., on November 15, 1843; was educated in the public schools, and in time 
became a school teacher and a successful one. She is the mother of five children, 
all of whom are living with the exception of one, William C, who was born October 
16, 1877, and died on the 25lh of the same month. Those living are: Edwin L., who 
was born October 4, 1868, has been a teacher for the past four years, which calling 
he expects to make his life work, and is now preparing himself for this work by attend- 
ing school; he is a Republican, and socially is a member of the K. P. Lodge at 
Breman, where he is highly esteemed as an amiable and intelligent young man; 
Mary B. was born March 19, 1873, and is at home with her parents; Elmer E. was 
born September 13, 1875, assists his father on the farm and is attending school; and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 443 

Chester O., who was born February 25, 1881, is also attending school and is well 
advanced in his studies for one of his age. The family attend the German Baptist 
Church, of which Mrs. Wisler is a member. 

Albert Wisler is the third member of the family reared by Isaac Wisler, a 
well-known resident of Elkhart county, Ind., and was born on the old home farm 
in the township of Locke on August 24, 1S66, acquiring a good business education 
in the district schools near his home. He spent his early days in assisting his 
father on the home farm, and studied the trade of a machinist under the guidance 
of his father. Being of a mechanical turn of mind he made rapid headway in this 
undertaking, and at an early day he gave valuable aid to his father. On November 
5, 1891, he began to study for the machinist's trade in Parson's Institute of Peoria, 
111., and there worked and studied for one year, becoming thoroughly familiar with 
the practical part of the work. He is a young man of superior ability, is honorable 
and upright in his business transactions, and as he earnestly endeavors to do what 
is right at all times he is well liked and has many friends. In politics he is a Re- 
publican, the principles of which party he supports on all occasions. He is very 
ingenious, and has invented a number of useful contrivances. 

David Wisler is one of the early pioneers of Elkhart county, Ind. , and is a son 
of Rev. Jacob Wisler, extended mention of whom is made elsewhere in this volume. 
David was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, June 8, 1830, and there in the public 
schools obtained a good common education in both English and German. In 1848 
he came to Elkhart county with his parents and located in Harrison township, near 
where his brother, John H., who spells his name "Whisler," now resides. He re- 
mained with his parents until 1857, but for three years previously had been earning 
his own living. In 1857 he took up his residence on the farm in Olive township on 
which he is now living, having made the purchase of the same in 1852, which makes 
about forty years that this farm has been in his possession. It comprised eighty 
acres of woodland, but with characteristic energy he soon managed to clear it, and 
since 1857 has made it his. home. As a farmer he has been successful; as a citizen 
public spirited, enterprising and prominent, and for many years has been connected 
with the Menuonite Church, which faith was also held by his father, who was a 
leader of that denomination. In the past he has taken an interest in the Republican 
party, and has supported its principles for at least thirty years. His land is de- 
voted to the raising of the usual farm products, and as he was, when a boy, reared 
to habits of industry, these very essential qualities to success have followed him 
throughout life, and have made him the successful man of affairs that he is. He 
has been quite extensively engaged in handling lumber, of which business he has a 
thorough and practical knowledge. He took for a wife Miss Christina Shank, a 
daughter of Michael and Barbara (Whiteman) Shank, the former of whom was born 
in Pennsylvania of Swiss parents. From Pennsylvania they removed to Canada in 
1800, and there on British soil Mrs. Wisler was born on October 16, 1831, being 
one of fourteen children, twelve daughters and two sons, their names being as fol- 
lows: Catherine, Barbara, Anna, Fannie, Elizabeth, Esther, Mary, Sarah, Susan, 
Eve, Lydia, Christina, Samuel and Michael. The father of these children died in 
St. Joseph county, Ind., at an advanced age and the mother in Putnam county, 
Ohio. This family was also Mennonite in religious belief, and in the various 
localities in which they resided were held in high esteem by all who knew them. 
Mr. and Mrs. Wisler have reared a family of nine children, all but one being now 
alive: John B., born October 27, 1857, is married to Mary Walter, and is living in 
St. Joseph county, Ind., and is the father of two children, Lydia and Alexander; 
Mary, born March 19, 1859, is the wife of Frederick Longiield. of St. Joseph 
county, and has one child not named; Ann was born December 6, 1860, is the wife 
of Chauncey Clause, of Elkhart county, and has two children, John and Ida; Susan 
was born April 18, 1862, is the wife of John Hunchberger, of St. Joseph county, 
and has four children, Melvin, William, Rosetta and Jacob; Sarah, born October 



444 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

25, 1864, is the wife of Emanuel Clause, of St. Joseph county, and has one child, 
William; Jacob was born April 24. 1867. is a farmer of St. Joseph countj-, is mar- 
ried to Ellen Parcell; Amos was born January 31, 1S69, and died October 5, 1S73, 
and David and Christian (twins), who were born January 12, 1874. are at home with 
their parents. All these sons are Republicans and are substantial business men. 
They are noted for their strict honesty and for their desire to do what is right and 
to live worthy lives. Jacob Wisler, the son of David, married the daughter of 
Richard Parcell. She was born March 16, 1S72. and with her husbaud is residing 
on their small but well-tilled farm in St. Joseph county. 

James M. Wisler is one of the practical, younger business men of Goshen, Ind., 
who has established a valuable industry, is a man of ability and line business capac- 
ity, and is the scion of an honored aud honorable family. His great-grandfather, 
Christian Wisler, was a Uermau, of Pennsylvania, was a soldier in the Continental 
army during the Revolutionarj- period, and a man of considerable prominence in his 
day. From this stock have sprung the numerous Wisler and Whisler families who 
are now widely scattered throughout the United States. James M. is a son of Isaac 
and Rebecca M. (Winder) Wisler, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. He was 
born on his father's farm in Locke township, July 24, 1861, and in his youth received 
the advantages of the common district schools, but possessing a naturally fine mind, 
he made the most of his opportunities and for five terms was a school teacher. Fol- 
lowing this he learned the trade of a machinist and boiler-maker of his father, who 
was a skillful mechanic, and further improved his knowledge of this business by 
working in the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad shops at Garrett, Ind. In 1888 he en- 
gaged in business in Goshen with E. D. Hostetter, as a general repairer of machin- 
ery, and in 1889 the firm bought ground and soon after built their present shops 
which were completed in January, 1890. Their business was soon greatly increased, 
and has continued so to do up to the present time. On February 1, 1892. a stock 
company was organized under the laws of the State of Indiana, with a capital stock 
of 812,500, with A. E. Brownell, president, W. L. Stonex, secretary, aud James 
M. Wisler. treasurer and general manager. This company bought the plant and 
business of the Goshen Machine & Boiler Works, andhavesincemet withflattering suc- 
cess, which desirable state of ailairs has been brought about largely through the unceas- 
ing and painstakiugefforts of James M. Wisler, who is a pushing and far-seeing young 
man of affairs. On March 19, 1885, he was united in marriage to Delia F. Dormus, 

daughter of Dormus, and her union with Mr. "Wisler has resulted in the birth of one 

child. Ethel. Mrs. Wisler is a member in good standing of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and politically Mr. Wisler is a stanch Republican. He is a young man of energy 
and ability, is entirely self made, having by his own exertions and efforts made his way 
in the world, and overcome the most diiScult obstacle to the e.stablishment of a suc- 
cessful business — that of making the right start. He is in good circumstances, and 
besides his interest in the boiler works, he owns his residence and lot, and a house 
and lot on the North Side. His past record as a man of business is unsullied, and 
he is rightly looked upon as one or the rising men of the county, whose future suc- 
cess in life is assured if he continues to follow his present admirable line of conduct. 
He possesses the integrity of character and honesty of purpose for which the stock 
from which he springs has been noted, and ma}' well take honest pride in his sterling 
ancestors. 

Henry Wtsong. Many of the most active and enterprising residents of Union town- 
ship, Elkhart Co. , Ind., are natives of this county and have here spent the greater part 
of their lives. In them we find men of true loyality to the interests of this part of the 
State who nndestaud as it were by intuition the needs, social and industrial, of this 
vicinity and who have a thorough knowledge of its resources. They are therefore 
better adapted to succeed here than a stranger could be and are, probably without 
exception, warmly devoted to the prosperity of their native place. Henry Wysong, 
the youngest sou of Robert and Anna (Miller) Wysong (see sketch), was born on the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 445 

old home place in Union township, this county, in 1853, and the school of his district 
atforded him a good practical education. Later he entered the school at Goshen, 
and finished at the State University at Terre Haute, Ind. For four years after this 
he was engaged in teaching school in Elkhart county and was very successful as an 
educator. Like his father and brothers he is public-spirited and enterprising, and 
is prominently identified with every enterprise for the advancement and progress of 
the community. He is a member of the Democratic party and is at present trustee 
of Union township. He has held other positions in the township and discharged 
the duties of the same in a very creditable manner. He has met with excellent suc- 
cess as an agriculturist, is the owner of 157 acres of land, it being the old home 
place. The farm is one of the best improved in the county and one of the oldest in 
the township. In carrying on his large and productive farm Mr. Wysong does not 
lose sight of the stockraising industrj- and has some fine animals on his place. He 
is one of the county's most wide-awake, thoroughgoing farmers and thoroughly un- 
derstands every phase of agricultural life. His pleasant home is presided over by 
his estimable wife, who was formerly Miss Lovina Miller, daughter of David C. Mil- 
ler (see sketch). Mrs. Wysong was born in Union township, this county, in 1857, 
and passed her girlhood days on her father's farm in this township. Mr. and Mrs. 
Wysong' 8 nuptials were celebrated in 1875 and three bright children have been the 
result: Charles E., born in 1878; Irvin, born in 1883 and Bessie, bom in 1892. 
Both parents are members of the German Baptist Church, are highly esteemed by 
all who know them, and have many warm friends. 

JosiAH Wtsosg. This gentleman, well known in Nappanee and in Elkhart 
county, Ind. , as one of the most substantial and progressive farmers of the same, is 
the second son born to Robert and Anna (Miller) Wysong, early pioneers of Elkhart 
county (see sketch). He is a native of Elkhart county, lx)rn February 6, 1848, and 
is a fair specimen of the best men that that county produces. His early life was 
spent on his father's farm in Union township and in attending the UUery School, in 
which he received a good business education which fitted him for almost any posi- 
tion. Later he learned the stone mason trade, and when twenty-two years of age 
went West with a party of three others, and for some time was actively engaged in 
hunting, killing forty-one buffaloes. Of late years he has been making hunting ex- 
peditions to northern Michigan and as he is a splendid shot with the rifle, generally 
brings back considerable game. He has been very successful as a hunter. When eight- 
een years of age he was deputy constable of Union township, filled that position in a 
satisfactory manner for eight years and later served eight years as justice of the 
peace. Mr. Wysong has a decided taste for music and has taught singing school for 
years. He is well known in the social circles of this part of the county, and has 
many warm friends. In the year 1871 he was united in mariage to Miss Julia A. 
Miller, a daughter of David C. Miller fsee sketch), and a native of Elkhart county, 
born in 1853. She was reared on her father's farm in this county and is a lady 
whose many excellent qualities have made her a general favorite. After his marriage 
Mr. Wysong settled in Union township, on a part of his father's farm, but after- 
ward becoming the owner of it, sold it and bought the place where he now lives, 
156 acres of as good land as is to be found in the State. On this farm is one of the 
largest barns in Union township, and as Mr. Wysong is one of the most thrifty, 
enterprising farmers in this part of his county, his place is one of the model ones. 
He has a very attractive home and is surrounded by all that makes life enjoyable, 
domestic happines and prosperity, a clear conscience and abundant means. To his 
credit it may be said, that his accumulations were made without loss or injustice to 
others. He is a man interested in the public welfare, and while he pays strict atten- 
tion to his private affairs, he shirks no duties as a loyal citizen. The Democratic 
party has ever received hisvote, and he is well known in the political career of Elkhart 
county. Mr. and Mrs. Wysong are the parents of three interesting children: Charles 
M., bom May 4, 1874, attending school; Burton, born October 2, 1878, is also in school 



446 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

and Dmsilla, born September 24, 1880. Mr. Wysong lias ever beea interested in 
improved breeding of stock and for the last two years has given his attention to the 
breeding of good horses. He is the present nominee for sheriff of Elkhart county 
on the Democratic ticket and would make an excellent officer. 

Wysong Family. Valentine Wysong, the founder of the family in this country, 
was originally from France and came to America at a period antedating the Revolu- 
tionary war. He settled in Lancaster county, Penn., followed farming for many 
years and was one of the pioneers of that county. He married and seven sons 
and two daughters were born: Valentine, Jacob, Joseph, Henry, John, Louis, 
David, Elizabeth and Catherine. After residing for a number of years in the Key- 
stone State, Valentine Wysong moved to Virginia and subsequently to Randolph 
county, Ohio, where he made a settlement in 1822. His children all grew to man- 
hood and womanhood, married, and nearly all reared large families. In Ohio Valen- 
tine and wife passed the closing scenes of their lives. Their second child, Jacob 
Wysong, the progenitor of the Wysong family in Elkhart county, Ind., was born in 
1776, near the place where the battle of Lexington was fought. He emigrated to 
the Old Dominion with his parents in about 1815, but subsequently emigrated to 
Montgomery county, Ohio, where he remained until his death in 1843. He was 
married in Virginia to Miss Jamima Cuttrell, and a family of thirteen children was 
born to them: Steven, Charles, John, Jacob, Henry, Jonas, Valentine, Joseph, 
Mathews, Lydia, Robert, William and Elizabeth. Robert is the only one now living, 
but most of them grew to mature years, married, and became the heads of large 
families. Jacob made a permanent home in Ohio and reared his family there. He 
was a member of the German Baptist Church, as was also his wife, who was a native 
of Virginia and the daughter of James and Elizabeth (Cosh) Cottrell. Jacob Wysong 
and wife have been dead for many years. The youngest son, Robert, has for many 
years been a prominent citizen of Union township, Elkhart county, Ind. He was 
born in Montgomery county, Ohio, in 1819, and spent his early life on a farm in 
that State, receiving his education in the subscription schools of that day. He was 
married in his native State to Miss Anna Miller, also of Ohio birth, and a daughter 
of Daniel and Sarah (Harris) Miller, early pioneers of the Buckeye State. Mr. Miller 
was born in Pennsylvania, in 1797, and was a sou of Steven and Anna (Baldman) 
Miller, both of whom were early pioneers of Pennsylvania. In 1845 Mr. Wysong 
came to Elkhart county, Ind., located on the farm where he now resides, in Union 
township, cut away the woods and built a cabin. In the fall of the same year he 
returned to Ohio for his wife and child, only one child having been born in the 
Buckeye State. They settled in the woods and began improving a farm of 160 
acres to which from time to time he added until he became the owner of consider- 
able property. Himself and sons are now living on 240 acres of well improved land, 
all in one tract but in three different farms. Mrs. Wysong was born in the year 1822 
and was one of three children, Anna, Sarah and Mary, born to her parents. After 
the death of her mother, Mrs. Miller, the father married Hannah Ernest, who bore 
him two children: Samuel and Catherine (both now deceased). To Mr. and Mrs. 
Wysong were born four children as follows: Daniel, a minister of the German Baptist 
Church at Nappanee; Josiah, a prominent farmer of Union township; Heurj', also 
a farmer of Union township; and Sarah, who died in 1867, when six years of age. 
This venerable and much esteemed couple are still living on the old homestead in 
Union township and are among the prominent people of the county. In pioneer 
times Mr. Wysong was something of a hunter and spent manj' pleasant hours 
engaged in that sport. In connection with farming he was engaged in brick laying 
and stone masonry for a number of years and was fairly prosperous in all his under- 
takings. He has ever been public-spirited and has ever taken an interest in all 
public improvements. No better citizen finds his home in Elkhart county and no 
one is more highly esteemed. Uprightness and honesty have marked his career in 
life and he has the respect and confidence of all. 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAyA. 447 

Bev. Daxiel "Wtsoxg. The localitj- iu which Nappanee is situated is indeed fort- 
unate in having among its citizens such a man as Mr. Wysong is conceded to be 
for his connection with the interests of the county, both as a minister of the gospel 
and as an agriculturist, has proven of much benefit and influence. He is the 
eldest child born to Eobert and Anna (Miller) Wysoug (see sketch preceding this), 
and owes his nativity to Montgomery county, Ohio, his birth occurring on September 
22, 184:2. When three years old he came with his parents to Elkhart county, Ind., 
and was reared on the farm of his father, becoming familiar with the arduous duties 
of the same at an early age. Like the average country boy, he received the advan- 
tages that the district school afforded, but by application and perseverance received 
a better education than the average. He assisted on the home place until about 
twenty-two years of age, at which time he started out as an educator, teaching dur- 
ing the winter and farming during the summer season. Previous to this, when 
twenty years of age, he married Miss Mary Miller, daughter of David C. Miller 
(see sketch), and a native of Ohio, born September 13, 1S43. She was but a mere 
child when her parents came to this county. Mr. Wysong and wife are now residing 
on a splendid farm in Union township, Elkhart county, and in the neighborhood of 
the old home. They have 174 acres of well-improved land and eveiything that ap- 
peals to a cultivated taste and to domestic comfort is found in this charming home. 
Mr. Wysong is known far and wide for integrity and uprightness and enjoys to the 
utmost the confidence and esteem of all who know him. He is an active worker for 
the public good and is particularly active in religious and educational matters. The 
children who have blessed his union are named as follows: Melvin, born May 22, 
1864, married Miss Catherine Smith, and they reside at Nappanee; Angeline, born 
December 9. 1866. died in 1S69: Calvin, born December 19, 1870, married Miss 
Malinda Stably and has a daughter. E. N. ; Clara E.. born April 13, 1875, is at 
home; Alvin. born in 1877 and died iu 1879: Cora, born May 13, 1882. is attending 
school, and Miua, born February 14, 1884, died from an accident August 24, 1889. 
Mr. Wysong is a well-to-do farmer and a worthy minister of the city. 

Jacob Smoker. The intelligence and ability shown by Mi'. Smoker, as a progres- 
sive tiller of the soil, and the interest he has taken in the advancement of measures 
for the good of Elkhart county, Ind., caused him long since to be classed as one of 
the leading citizens of his section. All that he has achieved or gained has come as 
the result of his own efforts, and deserves much credit for the determined way in 
which he faced and overcame many difficulties. His grandfather came from Germany 
to this country and settled in Pennsylvania, where he was classed among the 
"Pennsylvania Dutch," and where he became a thrifty agriculturist. Christian Smoker 
was married to a Miss Stutzman and Viy her became the father of eight children: 
John, Christian, David, Isaac, Nancy. Barbara, Fannie and Betsy. After the death 
of the mother of these children, Mr. Smoker married Fannie Livengood, to whom 
were born a family of six children: Joel, Jonathan, Jacob, Joseph. Catherine and 
Lydia. Mr. Smoker owned a farm in Lancaster county. Penn. , and was a devout 
member of the Amish Church. He later became one of the pioneer settlers of 
Wayne county, Ohio, and there died at the age of seventy-five years. Jacob Smoker, 
his son. the subject of this sketch, was born in Lancaster county, Penn., February 
16, 1825. and was taken by his parents to Ohio at the age of three years. Owing to 
the fact that his assistance was needed on the farm, his educational advantages were 
limited, and owing to the straitened circumstances of his father, he was compelled 
to solve the problem of life for himself when quite young and began to do farm 
work for his neighbors. From the time he was thirteen years of age. and until he 
was twenty-one, he gave all his earnings to his father, and this filial duty he has 
never regretted. During the winter seasons he remained about the old home attend- 
ing to the numerous duties of the farm, but in 1844 he decided to commence the bat- 
tle of life for himself, and to a young man of his push, energy and ambition the better 
chances of the West became a temptation that could not be resisted, and he soon 



448 PICTORIAL A^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

found himself in Elkhart count}', Ind., where he set energetically to work as a farm 
laborer. At the end of one year he returned to his old home, but in 1848 came back 
to the Hoosier State and here was married, in 1850, to Miss Mary Smiley, daughter 
of Nathan and Margaret Smiley. After his marriage he settled on 160 acres of 
land, a portion of which had been inherited by his wife, and on this place he resided 
until 1881, when he removed to his present farm, which consists of 183 acres. By 
thrift and industry he accumulated land untilat one time he was the owner of 600 
acres, but disposed of it by giving each of his children a start in life. He is the 
father of nine children, all of whom are married except one: Daniel, Samuel, David, 
John, Allen, Rebecca, Lydia, Catherine and Amanda. Mr. Smoker has always been 
independent in his political views but leans rather toward the Prohibition party, and 
all his children, who are settled within three miles of him, are respected and hon- 
ored citizens and firm believers in the temperance cause and all the sons vote the 
Prohibition ticket, with the exception of one, and none of them use tobacco in any 
form. Mr. Smoker has always advocated temperance and morality and himself prac- 
tices what he preaches. When he was a j'ouug man whiskey was a common drink, 
but he has never indulged in the use of intoxicants in any form. He has always 
been a patron of education and gave all his children opportunities for acquiring good 
practical common-school educations. He has been a member of the board of edu- 
cation of his district at various times and at one time presented a STO organ to 
his district. In this school district as many as fifty-four scholars have been enrolled 
at one time, and none of them use tobacco. This will illustrate the value of good 
influences. All his life Mr. Smoker has been strictly moral and has ever set a good 
example to his children, which they seem to have profited by. He has followed in 
the faith of his fathers and is a devout member of the Amish Church. His son 
Daniel married Rebecca Schwin, by whom he has two children, and is a farmer of 
his township; Samuel married Cora Simon and is the father of three children ; David 
is married to Lydia Schwin; John is married to Etta Stutzman; Rebecca is married 
to C. P. Yoder, a farmer of the township, by whom she has four children; Lydia 
married Manassa Yoder and is the mother of six children; Catherine married Adam 
Yoder and has three children; Amanda married W. W. Stem, manager of the 
creamery, of Goshen, and has two children. All the members of this family are 
people of sterling worth and are respected citizens. 

George B. Shively. There are few branches of trade in which the march of 
progress has wrought such a veritable revolution as in the stove and kindred lines 
of business. What with invention, improvement and the development of skill some- 
thing closely approaching perfection has been reached in this department of indus- 
trial activity. A popular and prosperous establishment in this line in Nappanee is 
the firm of Shively & Shively, dealers in hardware, stoves and all goods pertaining 
to this line. They are business men of push and enterprise, thoroughly conversant 
with the wants of the trade, and popular alike with their patrons and trade com- 
petitors. The business was established in 1891, and since that time they have been 
doing well in their line of trade. The individual members of the firm are George 
B. and Marvin H. Shively, descendants of old pioneer stock. George B. Shively, 
the senior member of the firm, is a native of Stark county, Ohio, born Februar}' 10, 
1849, and the elder of two children living, born to the marriage of David and 
Lydia (Houser) Shively. The father was Ijorn in Stark county, Ohio, February 9, 
1822, and was the second in order of birth of twelve children born to George and 
Elizabeth (Snyder) Shively. Sis of these children are now living: Jacob, David, 
George E., Joel, John and Daniel, the last two twins. The name of the children 
deceased are not known, but several of them died in one week in 1832. George 
Shively, grandfather of subject, was a son of Jacob Shively, and took part in the 
Whisky Rebellion in Pennsylvania. His father was a native of Germany, and was 
the first of the family to settle in America, coming here about 1760. From him 
have descended the Shivelys of this country, and the members of this family were 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 449 

among the pioneer settlers of the Keystone State. The first one of this family to 
leave that State was George Shively, the grandfather of our subject, who went to 
Stark county, Ohio, when a boy, finished his growth there, married and there reared 
a family. lu 1845 he moved with his family to St. Joseph county, Ind. , where he 
settled on a farm near Mishawaka. Later he moved to Kosciusko, and there died 
in 1879 at the age of eighty years. His wife passed away seven years prior to this. 
Mr. Shively was a minister of the German Baptist Church, and three of his sons, 
Jacob, David and Joel, became ministers in the same. David Shively, the second 
son of the above worthy couple and father of our subject, was born in Stark county, 
Ohio, and there grew to manhood. In the year 1848 he married Miss Lydia 
Houser, a native of Stark county, born November 16, 1829, and the daughter of 
Daniel Houser, also a native of Stark county, where he and wife died a number of 
years ago. To Mr. and Mrs. Shively were born three children, as follows : 
George B. (subject), Eli. a resident of Nappanee, Ind., and Uriah, who died at the 
age of three years. Rev. David Shively and wife are still living, and although 
seventy 3'ears of age, he is still quite actire and vigorous. He emigrated to Indi- 
ana in 1852, settled on a farm in the woods, 160 acres, and to this he added to 
from time to time until he became an extensive land owner. He and wife are well 
known throughout the county, and are among the best citizens of the same. Their 
son, George B. , was but a small boy when he settled with his father on the farm in 
Kosciusko county, and in addition to a common- school education he attended the 
Bourbon College. Later he taught school for some time, and after moving to 
Montgomery county, Kan., taught the Liberty School, but the nest year returned 
to the farm where he remained until 1891. From there he moved to Nappanee and 
established the firm of Shively & Shively. He has been a minister of the Ger- 
man Baptist Church since 1880. He is interested in the advancement of the Pro- 
hibition party and all reform movements. As a farmer he was unusually success- 
ful, and as a minister of the gospel he has accomplished much good. In the year 
1873 he married Miss Maria C. Smith, a native of Elkhart county, born near 
Goshen, January 26, 1848, and the daughter of James C. and Susannah Smith, 
both natives of Pennsylvania and early pioneers of Stark county, Ohio. Since 1853 
Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been residents of Indiana and now reside in Kosciusko 
county. They reared a family of thirteen children, six of whom are living. They 
are all well-to-do and prominent people. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Shively has 
been blessed by the birth of three children: Martin, born October 3, 1873, is at- 
tending the Mt. Morris College in Illinois, and has been a teacher; Rose A., born 
March 9, 1875, and Hattie E., born November 12, 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Shively are 
well respected in the community where they live, and are foremost in all good work, 
especially in all church work. 

Marvin H. Shively. Mr. Shively, junior member of the firm of Shively & 
Shively, dealers in hardware, stoves, and all goods pertaining to that line, is one of 
the representative business men of the town of Nappanee, and he and his associates 
are to be congratulated upon the large measure of success achieved in their undertak- 
ing. Mr. Shively was born December 14, 1863, and was the youngest of four children 
bom to George and Albertine (Slabaugh) Shively, of Kosciusko county, Ind. George 
Shively's birth occurred October 12. 1823, and he was reared and married in Stark 
county, Ohio. With his wife and children he came to Kosciusko county, Ind., pur- 
chased 110 acres of unimproved land, and to this added to from time to time, until 
he now owns a fine farm of 235 acres. He is one of the prosperous and substantial 
agriculturists of his neighborhood. In religion he is a member of the German 
Baptist Church, and in politics he is a stanch Republican. He is well respected by 
all, and is a most worthy citizen. Mrs. Shively was born in Stark county, Ohio, 
March 7, 1 836, and the daughter of John Slabaugh. Of the four children born to this 
worthy couple, three are living at the present time, viz.: Ezra, born June 29, 1854, 
married Flora Love and has one child, Roscoe C. (he now resides in Marshall county); 



450 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Adaline, born March 5, 1856, married Henry Rusher, and qovv resides in Kosciusko 
county (they have two children: Edward and Nora); Elizabeth, born in 1858, died 
at the age of three years, and Marvin H. The parents of these children are still liv- 
ing and reside on the home place. Our subject was reared on the farm, and in addi- 
tion to a district-school education he attended the State Normal at Valparaiso, Ind. 
After this he taught school for some time, and then accepted a position in a hard- 
ware store at Bourbon, Ind., where he remained for fourteen months. In 1891 he 
returned to his father's farm, and .=ulisequently, in company with his cnusin, George 
B. Shively, engaged in the hardware business in Nappanee. He is a young m;in of 
excellent business acumen, of iuHuential conections and high social standing, with 
whom it is a pleasure to deal. He was married October 12, 1891, to Miss Ruah 
Towns, a native of Marshall county, Ind., born March 24, 1870, and one ot a family 
of seven children born to William and Emily (Boyd) Towns. William Towns was 
born in Ohio, and was a sou of Robert and Sarah (Hoopengardner) Towns. He 
came with his parents to Kosciusko county, Ind., in 1855, and his wife came with 
her parents to this county about the same time. To their marriage were born these 
children: Ruah, Ella, Lucy, Clarence, Robert, Harley and Ethel. Mrs. Shively is 
a member of the Christian Church, and is active in all good work. She was formerly 
a teacher. Mr. Shively has met with fair success as a business man of Nappanee, 
and is public-spirited, enterprising and thoroughgoing. In politics he supports the 
principles of the Prohibition party. 

Locris De Coudres is a successful farmer and a dealer in thoroughbred horses in 
the vicinity of North Liberty, Ind. He is a native of Newark, N. J., where he was 
born May 21, 1833, to Thomas and Mary (Fox) De Coudres, the former a native of 
New Jersey and the latter of Rhinebeck. on the Hudson River in New York. The 
paternal grandfather came from France, bringing with him a large family, and 
after residing in New Jersey for some time returned to his native land, where a large 
fortune was awaiting him, and this was the last the family in America ever heard of 
him. When a boy Thomas De Coudres was bound out to learn the tinner's trade, 
at which he worked for seven years, then began working at his trade on his own ac- 
count and also engaged in the manufacture of stoves in Newark, N. J. About 1834 
he removed to Tompkins county, N. Y., where he carried on his business in connec- 
tion with farming until his death in 1856, his widow surviving him until 1878. Mr. 
De Coudres was twice married and by his first wife became the father of three chil- 
dren, all of whom are deceased, and to his second uni^iu seven children were born, 
of whom two survive: Louis, and William F., of McLean, N. Y., where he resides 
on the old homestead. Thomas De Coudres and his wife, Mary, were persons of 
great energy and force of character. They regarded the proper rearing of their 
children a most sacred duty. Eapeciall,y did they impress on their minds the neces- 
sity of being honest in every thing. "Be careful what you promise, but keep your 
promises at all hazards" was a favorite maxim oft repeated. They were prominent 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and were held in great esteem by Bishop 
James, who never failed to visit them when presiding over a conference held near their 
home. In the State of New York, Louis De Coudres was reared, and in the schools of 
that commonwealth he obtained a fair education, Ijeing first an attendant of the public 
schools and later one term at Cazenovia Seminary. Although brought up on the farm 
he engaged in clerking for a few years after starting out to make his own way in the 
world, then decided to seek his fortune farther westward and in the summer of 1855 
went to within seven miles of Chicago (which is now almost in the heart of the city) 
but not liking the looks of the straggling little town at that time, he and his brother, 
instead, purchased a large tract of land on Kankakee Marsh, three miles north of 
North Liberty. In the winter of 1856 Mr De Coudres located in Greene township, 
St. Joseph county. In February he returned to New York and was there married to 
Miss Martha A. Smith, daughter of George F. and Mary Smith. Her mother's 
maiden name was Laning. She was a sister to Dr. Richard, Revs. Gideon and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 451 

Ralph, Benjamin, Esq., and Elias Lauing; also of Mrs. David Colgrove, all of 
Tompkins county, N. Y. Martha had two children, one of which died in infancy, 
the other. Flora E. , is now the wife of Samuel N. Finch. He returned with his 
young wife to Indiana, but was left a widower in 1863, with a little daughter to care 
for. Flora E., who is now the wife of Samuel N. Finch. On April 21, 1864, Mr. De 
Coudres took for his second wife Sarah C. Reece, a native of Indiana, whose parents 
were early settlers of Liberty township and whose mother is still living. This 
union has resulted in the birth of four children: William S., who married Miss Susie 
Clem; Albert (deceased); Addie and Fred. Since 1866 Mr. De Coudres has resided 
on his present farm, which is one of the best improved places, in the way of build- 
ings of all descriptions, in the county. He has 263 acres in the home place and 
considerable land elsewhere in the county, all of which is managed in an intelligent 
and profitable manner. He was assessor of Greene and Liberty townships ; he is an in- 
fluential citizen and his name is known far and near as a successful stockman. He 
is a great lover of fine horses, and has some magnificent animals on his place, among 
whichareeminently worthy of mention, a handsome Cleveland Bay horse from England; 
two Clydesdales from Scotland ; two fine Canadian horses ; a Hambletoniau from Elector 
by Electioneer; all of which are registered animals, and many others. Mr. De 
Coudres has been remarkably successful as a stockraiser and is considered a judge 
of good horse flesh. He is a Republican politically, and he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. De Coudres has been connected with 
many public enterprises which related to the interests of the farmer. He assisted 
in organizing the Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company and has been one of the 
directors ever since the company was organized. Tlirough his efforts the Northern 
Indiana Detective Agency was instituted. For years he has earnestly agitated the 
subject of good public highways. Being a man of superior judgment, his advice is 
often solicited I13' his friends and neighbors. His maternal grandfather (Fox) was a 
sea captain and at one time his vessel was captured by the French. This vessel was 
valued at §60,000, and with other American vessels that were taken, were paid for 
by the French Government to the United States. It required a special act of Con- 
gress to enable the Government to repay those vessel owners for the losses sustained. 
For some reason it was many years before such an act was passed. The owners of 
the vessels died and their heirs experienced great difficulty in establishing the valid- 
ity of their claims. Some of the claimants, among them the Fox heirs, became dis- 
couraged and ceased to prosecute their claims and finally lost them through lack of 
evidence to establish their identity as heirs. David \V. Reece, father of Mrs. De- 
Coudres, was a pioneer of liberty township and upon his arrival here in 1840, made 
a clearing four miles from Lakeville, and on this land moved his family two years 
later. He was born in Tennessee and first moved his family to Fayette county, 
Ind., thence to St. Joseph county. Of seven children born to himself and wife, six 
are still living: Mary R., wife of Mr. Heaton, of Rossville, Vermilion Co., 111.; 
Sarah C wife of Louis DeCoudres; William W., of Vermilion county, 111.; 
Thomas J., a hardware merchant of Walkerton, Ind. ; Dr. James N., a successfiil 
physician of North Liberty; Martha, wife of John Whitiuger of this county; and 
Eliza (deceased). David W. Reece was born in Grainger county, Tenn., December 
22, 1811, and died at his residence one mile south of North Liberty April 18, 1889, in 
his seventy-eighth year. His grandfather, Thomas Reece, was of English descent, 
but was born and reared in North Carolina, a member of the Quaker Church. He 
was born about 1779. W^hen quite young the family emigrated to East Tennessee 
and there he eventually joined the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1819, as there was 
no Quaker Church in the vicinity. His death occurred in Alabama in 1849. His 
mother, Mary Glasgow, was of Welsh descent, born in Virginia in 1783, her 
father's family being likewise early residents of East Tennessee, where she became 
acquainted with ami married Thomas Reece in 1804. To their union five sons and 
three daughters were given, David W. being the third born. The mother was 



453 PICTORIAL .-LXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

called from life in Alabama in 1853. David W. Reece became a resident of Fayette 
county, Ind. , at the age ot twenty-one years, and although he followed teaching dur- 
ing the winter months he worked at various occupations during the summers until he 
succeeded in accumulating a little money. While in Fayette county he met and 
married Nancy M., daughter of Gen. Jeremiah A. Wilson, one of the old settlers of 
that county, their marriage vows being taken April 26, 1838. In October, 1842, 
they moved to St. Joseph county, Ind., where Mr. Reece entered a quarter section 
of land four miles west of Lakeville and began the arduous task of clearing his land. 
After many years of incessant toil and hardships peculiar to the early settler, he dis- 
posed of his property aud purchased 160 acres one mile south of North Liberty, where 
he resided uutil his death, leaving a widow and six children. He was a man of 
unusual firmness and decision of character, and, guided by a keen sense of right, he 
was slow to form a conclusion, but when formed it was as immovable as the rock- 
ribbed hills that surrounded his birthplace. He labored to elevate public opinion 
to a high plane of thought and rejoiced to see the advancement of education, 
morality and religion. Unselfish in his motives, to him the church and school- 
house were more desirable than a bank accouot, and his loftiest ambition was to be 
on the right side of every great social, moral, political and religious question. He 
often remarked that he wished to so order his life that the world might be the better 
for his having lived in it. He was a wai'm personal friend and admirer of Schuyler 
Colfax and regarded him as one of God's noblemen. 

Drs. Mitchell and Lent. Few, perhajas none, save those who have trod the ar- 
duous paths of the profession, can picture to themselves the array of attributes, 
physical, mental and moral, and the host of minor qualities essential to the making 
up of a great physician and surgeon. His constitution needs must be the hardiest 
to withstand the constant shock of wind and weather, the wearing loss of sleep 
and rest, the ever gathering load of care, the insidious approach of every form of 
fell disease to which his daily round of duties momentarily expose him. The above 
is but a few necessary remarks introducing Drs. Mitchell & Lent, who for years past 
have made their home in Lakeville, Ind., and who have established a large practice. 
Dr. Harry F. Mitchell was born in Kingston, Province of Ontario, Canada, July 10, 
1866, being the eldest but one of a family of four children born to Peter and Vic- 
toria (Wycott) Mitchell, who are still living at Kingston, the former having for 
about thirty-five years of his life devoted his attention to contracting and shi{)-build- 
ing, but is now retired from the active duties of life. He was a native of Bonnie 
Scotland, but when a lad was brought by his parents to America, and with them set- 
tled in Canada. He and his wife reared the four children born to them, the two sons 
being given medical educations, the elder brother, C. F. Mitchell, being a successful 
medical practitioner of South Bend; one daughter, Florence, is deceased; Beatrice 
still living at home. Dr. Harry F. Mitchell was put under a private teacher until 
he was thirteen years of age, after which he entered the public schools and took a 
teacher's course, but never followed the calling of a pedagogue, as his tastes and in- 
clinations were not at all in that direction. Later he entered Queen's College, in 
which he took the classical course, and also a business course, graduating at a 
later period, after which he took up the study of medicine in Queen's Medical 
College at Kingston, from which he graduated after four years of earnest and 
faithful study. He took also the degrees of master of surgery and licentiate of the 
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons. During that time he spent eighteen 
months in hospital work, and for two years was associated in the practice of his pro- 
fession with Prof. K. N. Fenwick, of Queen's University. Following this he prac- 
ticed with Dr. J. B. Ruttan, of Wellington, Ontario, for some time, but on February 
3, 1889, came to Lakeville, Ind., where he has built up a reputation and knowl- 
edge of his calling that is an honor to himself and to the noble profession to 
which he belongs. He is exceptionally skillful as a surgeon, and has always made a 
specialty of diseases of the throat and nose, in the treatment of which he has been 





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.UE.UOrES OF lyBIAXA. 455 

remarkably successful. He was married in 1892 to Miss Lillie, daughter of T. M. 
Woodburn, of Ottawa, Ontario, a prominent railroad contractor. The Doctor and 
his estimable and intelligent wife are very popular in the social circles of their sec- 
tion, and by their natural kindness of heart, their intelligence and hospitality, have 
won numerous warm friends. The Doctor is in sympathy with the Republican party, 
and is in every respect a widn-awake and public spirited young man. His practice 
grew to such proportions that in 1892 he took a partner in the person of a brother 
student, Dr. E. J. Lent, with whom he has since remained associated. Dr. Mitchell 
is a member of the A. F. & A. M., of Lakeville, and also a member of the 
K. O. T. M. , of South Bend. 

Dr. E. J. Lent, during the short time that he has been a medical practitioner of 
St. Joseph couutj', Ind. , has made many friends, his ability has become well known, 
and as a conseqence he has gained a large practice. He was born in Picton, Canada, 
August 17, 1868. his parents being James E. and Ellen (Welbanks) Lent, the former 
of whom was of good old New England stock, born in the State of Vermont. He 
was born in Canada, there grew to manhood and was married, and became a suc- 
cessful wholesale and retail marble dealer of Picton, where he is at present and has 
been in business for the past thirty-five years. Dr. Lent was the youngest of his 
four children (three sons and one daughter). At an earlj' age he entered the public 
schools, but finished his literary education in the Picton Collegiate Institute, and in 
1887 entered the medical department of Queen's University at Kingston, graduating 
with honors four years later, taking the degrees of M. D. C. M. and L. R. C. P. & S. 
Among those under whom he pursued his studies was the famous Hon. Dr. Sullivan, 
the greatest surgeon of Ontario, and also under Dr. Edward Kidd, of Picton. In 
May, 1892, he located for the practice of his profession in the Sheridan Block, South 
Bend, Ind., and at the end of a few months formed a partnership with Dr. Mitchell. 
He is one of the enterprising and wide-awake men of the county, and gives every 
promise of becoming eminent in his profession, for he is exceptionally well versed in 
medical lore, keeps up with the times in his profession, and is energetic and pushing. 
He makes a specialty of chronic diseases, and treats them with great success. He 
is in sympathy with the Democratic party, and is still unmarried. 

Rev. Daniel Brenneman. For many years this worthy gentleman has ministered 
to the spiritual wants of his fellow-man, and his career has ever been honorable and 
upright. He first saw the light of day in Fairfield county, Ohio, June 8, 1834, and 
is a son of Henry and Barbara (Beery) Brenneman. Henry Brenneman was born in 
Virginia, November 1, 1791, and his parents, Abraham and Magdalene (Shenk) 
Brenneman, were natives of Pennsylvania and of German extraction. Abraham 
Brenneman was born about the year 1743, and was a son of Melchior Brenneman^ 
who was a native of Switzerland and who came to America about the year 1709. 
He was among the first settlers of Lancaster county, Penn., and was there married 
to Miss Anna Good. He entered land from the Government, followed farming all 
his life, and was a member of the Mennonite Church. Abraham Brenneman was 
married to Miss Reif, and was an early settler of Rockingham county, Va. He settled 
on a farm and there reared a famil\' of fourteen children, two others having died in 
infancy, having had eight by each wife, being married the second time to Miss 
Magdalene Shenk, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1769. Abraham died in Vir- 
ginia in 1815, of camp fever. His wife survived him until May, 1851, her death 
occurring in Fairfield county, Ohio. They were also members of the Mennonite 
Church, and in pioneer days services were frequently held in their house. The 
youngest son of Abraham, named David, died in 1892 in Allen county, Ohio, at the 
advanced age of eighty-seven years. Henry Brenneman, the father of the subject of 
this sketch, was the eldest son of Abraham Brenneman by the second wife, and his 
early life was spent on a farm in his native State, Virginia. There he was married, 
August 8, 1815, to Miss Barbara Beery, who was born August 3, 1797, in Rocking- 
ham county, Va., and the daughter of George and Susanna (Fank) Beery, who after- 

37 



-loG PICTOlilAL AND BIOORAl^HICAL 

ward settled in Fairfield county, Ohio, where they passed the closing scenes of their 
lives. In 1816 Henry Brennemau removed to the Buckeye State, settled in Fair- 
field county, and was one of tlie earliest settlers of the county. He entered 160 
acres of land and on this the family lived for many years. His death occurred on 
this farm. He followed milling on an extensive scale for a number of years, oper- 
ating a grist and saw-mill, and was quite successful in this occupation. In March, 
1838, the smallpox entered his home and his wife and two of his children fell 
victims to this dreadful disease. To his marriage were born these children: John, 
Susanna, George (died at the age of sixty-eight years), Anna, Catherine (deceased), 
Abraham (deceased), Henry (deceased), and Daniel, the subject of this sketch. 
After the death of Mrs. Breuneman Mr. Brenneman was married to Miss Esther 
Good, a native of Virginia, and one child was the result of this union: Magdalene. 
About one year after marriage Mrs. Breuneman died, and Mr. Brenneman married 
Miss Anna Rodehefer, a native of Virginia. Her death occurred August 17, 1859. 
Three sons of Henry Brenneman, John, George and Daniel, were ministers of the 
Meunonite Church, the two former being bishops. Daniel Brenneman was reared 
on a farm in his native county, and received a limited education in the common 
schools, attending school taught in the primitive log school-house of pioneer days. 
Mr. Brenneman was married in Augusta county, Va., March 22, 1857, to Miss 
Susanna Kagey, who was born May 18, 1839, in Augusta county, Va., and the 
daughter of John and Barbara (Miller) Kagey, the parents natives of Virginia, where 
they passed their entire lives. After marriage Mr. Brenneman settled in his native 
county and there made his home until iSG-t, when he moved with his family to Elk- 
hart county, Ind. In this county he has since resided, a portion of the time in 
Bango township, and the remainder of the time mostly in Jefferson township. He 
settled on the farm where he now resides in February, 1883, and is the owner of 148 
acres. He and Mrs. Brenneman are members of the Mennonite Church, and Mr. 
Brenneman has been a minister of that denomination since 1857. He was married, 
converted, baptized and ordained to the ministry in less than a year. At the pres- 
ent time he is on the Goshen circuit. He was the originator of the church organ, 
the Gospel Banner, established in July, 1878, and it was published at Goshen until 
1885, when it was removed to Berlin, Out. At present there is an English and 
German edition of the paper. In 1874 Mr. Brenneman was expelled from the Old 
Mennonite Church for holding class meetings aud protracted meetings, this not con- 
forming with the old church customs. He was constrained to follow his convictions 
on these points, and, as a result, a new organization was formed in conjunction with 
a few other ministers who had been expelled for the same cause. This new organi- 
zation is known as the Mennoiute Brethren in Christ, and is becoming quite numer- 
ous, not only in this country, but in Canada. To Mr. and Mrs. Brenneman have 
been born ten children, as follows: Mary M., music and school teacher; Timothy 
H., printer by trade; John S., printer by trade, now working in Red Wing, Minn. ; 
Josiah M., painter at Elkhart; Rhoda K., a school teacher since 1883; Martha A.; 
Naoma S., music teacher; Daniel J.; Phoebe P. and Mahlon M. In politics Mr. 
Brenneman is a Prohibitionist. 

Timothy H. Brenneman, eldest son of Daniel, was born September 20, 1860, and 
remained on the farm assisting his father until eighteen years of age, when he 
entered the office of the Goshen Times, and there learned the printer's trade, at 
which he worked about nine years. He edited the Gospel Banner at Goshen from 
1882 to 1885, being elected to that position by the General Conference of the newly 
organized church above referred to. At the expiration of that time the paper was 
removed to Berlin, Ont. ,and he resigned the position. He has since spent two 
years in the office at Berlin. Mr. Breuneman was married September 23, 1883, to 
Miss Laura Dalrymple, a native of Elkhart county, born January 15, 1860, and the 
daughter of Joseph and Eliza (Albin) Dalrymple, who were among the pioneers of 
the county. Mr. and Mrs. Brenneman are members of the Mennonite Church. In 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 457 

politics he la a Prohibitionist aud cast his first presideutial vote for John P. St. 
John, he being among the ninety-six Prohibitionists who voted at that election in 
Elkhart county. Mr. Brenuemau has a comfortable home in Jefferson township and 
fourteen acres of land. He raises frait and vegetables for market. To his marriage 
have been born three children: Jesse L., Ruth V. and Naomi. 

Hon. John Matxard Butleb, of Indianapolis, is ooe of the ablest lawyers in the 
State, as well as one of its most famous orators. He was born September 17, 183-4, 
at Evansville, Ind., and is a son of Rev. Calvin aud Malvina (French) Butler. Hav- 
ing but limited educational advantages in youth, and being desirous of receiving a 
collegiate schooling, he secured the means, through his own efforts, to take a four 
years' course at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind., from which institution he 
graduated in 1856. Upon the day of his graduation he was tendered the presidency 
of the Female Seminary at Crawfordsville, in which capacity he served three years, 
then became principal of the city high school. During the meantime he read 
law, and in 1861 embarked in the practice of this calling at Crawfordsville, and from 
the beginning has had all the practice be could attend to. In 1871 he moved to 
Indianapolis, where he has since resided and where he is justly regarded as second 
to no lawyer in the State in point of ability. An ardent Republican in politics, his 
voice and eloquence have been much in demand by his party's managers, and 
although repeatedly solicited to become a candidate for office, he has steadily refused 
all political preferment. In his reputation as a first-class lawyer, an honest, 
upright man, and in the pleasures of his home, Mr. Butler finds the chief source of 
his happiness. 

Hervet L. V.\nndys, D. D. For many years, forty at least, the name of Mr. 
Vannuys has been inseparably linked with the religious history of Indiana, whose 
annals bear testimony to the integrity of his character and brilliancy of his intellect. 
He is at present the popular and much esteemed minister of the Pre.sbyterian Church 
at Groshen. Mr. Vannuys is a native Kentuckian. born November 3, 1829, in Shelby 
county, and is a son of Tunis and Kate (Demaree) Vannuys, the former a native of 
New Jersey and the latter of Pennsylvania, and of Holland and Huguenot extrac- 
tion, respectively. Tunis Vannuys was born in 1775, and at an early day removed 
with his father's family to Harrodsburg, Ky. He was but a small boy at that time, 
and was there during the Indian troubles. He grew to manhood there, and after 
his marriage to Miss Demaree, removed to Shelby county, Ky. Mrs. Vannuys was 
the daughter of Samuel Demaree, and a woman of remarkalsle strength of character 
and most exemplary piety. Tunis Vannuys followed the occupation of a farmer all 
his life and was very successful in this pursuit. In 1836 the family removed to 
Franklin, Ind.. where Mr. Vannuys died March 3, 1846, his wife having passed 
away in 1844. They were the parents of the following children: Samuel, Mary, 
Christine, Susan, Isaac, Charity, John, Cornelius, Catherine, Emeline amd Hervey, 
all of whom grew to mature years. Mr. Vannuys was very decided in his anti- 
slavery views, and owing to that reason left Kentucky for Indiana. He provided 
generously for bis children, only four of whom are now living: John, Cornelius, 
Catherine and Hervey L. The latter passed bis boyhood and youth on his father's 
farm in Kentucky, and came to Indiana with the family in 1836. His earlj' educa- 
tion was received from private instructors, being fitted for college in that way. and 
he entered the freshman year at Hanover College, Indiana, in Septeml)er, 1844, 
graduating in June, 1848. In September of that year he entered the Theological 
Seminary at Princeton, N. J., attended for two years, and then spent a year in 
private reading and travel. Afterward he returned to that institution for another 
year, and graduated in May, 1852. The following summer he passed in rest and a 
visit to Washington, D. C-. , and in October, 1852, he came to Goshen, where he 
began preaching as a home missionary. In March, 1853, he organized the First 
Presbyterian Church of Goshen, with fifteen members, and here he has continued to 
labor for forty years, over eight hundred having been admitted to membership dur- 



458 • PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

ing his pastorate. Dr. Hutchinson, of New Albany, and Dr. Vannuys, are the 
oldest pastors of the Presbyterian Church in Indiana. The first church building 
erected of the Presbyterian denomination is at present used by the German Lutheran 
society. The building now occupied was dedicated in 1863, and is a large, hand- 
some brick structure, the finest church building in northern Indiana at the time 
of its erection. Mr. Vannuys was married on June 28, 1868, to Miss Rebecca H. 
Williams, daughter of Samuel P. and Catherine (Hume) Williams, natives of Hart- 
ford, Conn. Mrs. Vannuys was a graduate of the Ladies' Seminary at Pittsfield, 
Mass. One child was born to this union, but died in infaucy. Mrs. Vannuys died 
May 16, 1869, and Mr. Vannuys selected his second wife in the person of Miss Lillie 
W. Loring, their nuptials being celebrated on January 22, 1872. Miss Loring was 
born in Springfield, Mass., and is a daughter of William and Phoebe (Smith) Lor- 
ing; both are now deceased. The mother was a descendant of John Alden, of the 
"Mayflower," and a native of the Old Bay State. One child, now deceased, was 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Vannuys. Mr. Vannuys has been a commissioner to the general 
assembly of the Presbyterian Church many times, and was moderator of the Synod 
of Northern Indiana in 1862, and of the Synod of Indiana North in 1879. In early 
days he did much missionary work throughout this section of the State when 
churches were struggling for existence and footing, and for years has been engaged 
in the discharge of the duties of his sacred calling. In 1881 he received the hon- 
orary degree of doctor of divinity from Wabash College, an honor most worthily 
bestowed. Mr. Vannuys' ancestors have always been identified with the Presbyte- 
rian faith, and his father was a most exemplary Christian, having been an elder for 
over forty years. The latter was a man of high standing iu the commiinity and 
quite wealthy for those days. Dr. Vannuys is a man of strong will, clear concep- 
tions, generous impulses, and scrupulously tender of the rights of others. His life 
has been singularly pure, and all his acts are strongly characteristic of good, sound 
sense. His sermons are terse in style, firm in diction, logical in thought and yet 
free from all ostentatious display, being filled with Biblical citations, historic refer- 
ences, poetic gems, and earnest, religious pathos. He is a diligent student and ripe 
scholar. Thus it is seen that Dr. Vannuys is the senior pastor of this synod, having 
spent forty years at Goshen where he has performed an arduous, succesful work. 
He was elected clerk of the Synod of Indiana North, and held the office for seventeen 
years, until the consolidation of the .synods of the State in 1870. No man in the 
synod is more beloved or holds a more honorable place than Dr. Vannuys, who is 
now the acceptable, faithful, and much-loved pastor of the church he organized so 
many years ago; esteemed alike by the members of the church, the congregation, 
and the community in which he resides. The following notice, which appeared in 
a recent issue of the Daily Times, explains itself: The Presbyterian people planted 
the fortieth mile-stone of Dr. Vannuys' pastorate last evening, and many friends 
came in to extend congratulatious and bid a hearty Godspeed for the rest of the 
journey. The people began to assemble "at early candle light," and the "small 
hours" were not far away when the convocation broke up. Dr. and Mrs. Vannuys, 
assisted by Dr. Logan and the elders and deacons and their wives received the 
happy throng which for more than an hour passed in. At about 8 o'clock the 
ladies' committee received in the parlors, and a collation was served amid surround- 
ings that pleased as the "old corn of the land" that ancient troop of wayfarers. 
Mrs. Dr. Ellis, Mrs. Peck, Mrs. C. C. Rutler and Mrs. James Finney presided at 
the coffee urns, and a host of young ladies served the guests. Dr. Vannuys and 
visiting pastors, with the session and deacons and their wives, occupied a table at 
which Mrs. Vanuuys presided. After the collation the congregation assembled in 
the auditorium and a solo was rendered by Miss Zella Wilson, an organ interlude by 
Mrs. Roach, and a solo by Prof. Morrice. Prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Town- 
send, of Elkhart, after which Hon. H. D. Wilson made an address, and in behalf of 
the church and friends, presented to Dr. Vanuuys the offering expressive of appre- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 459 

ciation and good will. The amount was $800. Dr. Vannuys responded in his 
happy way, giving something of the providential leading that brought him to 
Goshen, and of the early experiences connected with the settlement. Miss Zella 
Wilson again responded with a solo, and Dr. Logan made a short address, after 
which the greetings of the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Goshen, and the 
Presbyterian Church of Elkhart, were presented by their respective pastors, Eev. W. 
H. Daniel and Mr. Townsend, after which Rev. Townsend pronounced the benedic- 
tion. This record will have to remain incomplete. The abundant labors of the 
many busy hands and willing minds displayed in the decorations and service of the 
evening, was the spontaneous work of the whole congregation, rather than of special 
committees, and it seemed a pleasant feature that there was not the stiffness of 
formality, but each one was allowed to take such course as the occasion prompted. 

Christian K. Stoutfer. Of that sturdy and independent class, the farmers of 
Indiana, none are possessed of more genuine merit and a stronger character than he 
whose name stands at the head of this sketch. He has risen to more than an ordinary 
degree of success in his calling, and wherever kno^vn is conceded to be an energetic 
and progressive tiller of the soil, imbued with all those qualities of goaheadative- 
ness which have characterized his ancestors. His birth occurred in Center county, 
Penn. , April 9, 1830, and he is a son of John and Catherine (Keller) StoufPer, natives 
of Pennsylvania, also. John Stouffer was born in 1796, and when very young he 
was left an orphan and among strangers. He had no educational advantages, never 
attending school, and he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked a number 
of years. When a young man he located in Center county, Penn., and was there 
married to Miss Catherine Keller, a daughter of Jacob and Margaret (Corman) Kel- 
ler, natives of the Keystone State, where they passed their entire lives. In 1847 
Mr. Stoufifer and family removed to Summit county, Ohio, purchased a farm, and on 
this resided until his death, on July 27, 1863. His wife survives him and resides 
with her son, Christian K., in Jefferson township. She is now nearly eighty-nine 
years of age. Her children were named as follows; Elizabeth A., George, 
Christian K.. Catherine, Jacob, Maria, Leah, John, Mary and Luther. Christian 
K. Stouffer remained in his native county until seventeen years of age, when his 
parents removed to Summit county, Ohio, and he with them. There he was married 
in December, 1854, to Miss Sarah E. Krytser, a native of Summit county. Four 
children were the fruits of this union: Ira F., Morris C. , William T. and George 
H., the latter the only one surviving. He resides in South Bend, Ind. Mrs. Stouf- 
fer died in August, 1868. Mr. Stouffer' s second marriage occurred in April, 1869, 
to Miss Barbara Stiver, a native of Miami county, Ohio, who died in December, 
1887. On November 18, 1890, Mr. Stouffer was married to Miss Mary A. Holderman, 
a native of Indiana. In 1866 Mr. Stouffer came to Elkhart county, Ind. , settled on a 
farm in Jefferson township, and resides on this at the present time. It consists of 
115 acres of land, nearly all of which is under cultivation. He has made many im- 
provements, and the old log cabin and log stable have given place to a commodious 
residence and barn. Everything about the place indicates that an experienced and 
capable hand is at the helm. Mr. Stouffer is a member of the Reformed Church at 
Goshen, but Mrs. Stouffer is a member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. Stouffer 
has been justice of the peace since settling in the township, and is in every way 
a most worthy citizen. 

Samuel F. Poorman. Among the most e.steemed and respected citizens of 
Goshen there is not one who has been a more faithful soldier, a more pleasant or 
agreeable member of society, or a more thorough or sagacious business man than 
the gentleman whose name is mentioned above. His life of industry and usefulness 
and his record for honesty and uprightness have given him a hold upon the com- 
munity which all might well desire to share. Mr. Poorman was born in Perry 
county, Ohio, September 5, 1839, and is a son of John and Martha J. (Stambaugh) 
Poorman, both natives of Pennsylvania. The father was born in June, 1818, and 



460 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

came to Ohio with his parents in an early day. Settling in Somerset he learned the 
harness trade, and was married in 1838 to Miss Stambaugh, who was born March, 
1819, and whose parents were natives of Pennsylvania. After marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Poorman removed to TilSn, Ohio, where they made a permanent settlement, 
and where Mr. Poorman engaged in the harness business. They were among the 
very early settlers of that place and Mr. Poorman was one of the prominent busi- 
ness men. His death occurred in June, 1884. His wife survives him and lives in 
Tiffin. They were the parents of the following children: Samuel F. ; Joseph, died 
in infancy; Joseph E. , engaged in the bicycle business in Cincinnati; George S., 
deceased; Mary, deceased: Alice, died in infancy ; Florence F., residing in Tiffin, 
and Jessie L., also residing in Tiffin. The original of this notice was not yet two 
years old when his parents located in Tiffin, Ohio, and he was there reared and edu- 
cated. His tirst scholastic training was in an old log jail, a portion of which was 
used as a school-room, and the remainder for criminals. He recalls an incident 
connected with this building which frightened him very much and produced a last- 
ing impression upon his memory. The prisoners escaped from their part of the 
jail into the school-room and thus made their escape. This was during school hours 
and the children were so filled with terror that they rushed from the school room. 
Later our subject attended college at Tiffin, and still later was apprenticed to learn 
the harness-maker's trade in his father's establishment. This he followed for about 
four years, and then entered a drug store, subsequently becoming a successful drug- 
gist, and a member of the American Pharmaceutical Association and Chicago Col- 
lege of Pharmacy. Following this Mr. Poorman became traveling salesman in 
drugs and in other lines, being thus engaged for thirteen years. He enlisted 
in Company A, Eighth Ohio Regiment as corporal; and fourteen months later 
was a member of non-commissioned staff, regular army, as hospital steward, 
serving three years. He enlisted April 1, 1861, and was discharged June 
12, 1865. Among the principal engagements in which he participated were the fol- 
lowing: Winchester, Fort Royal, Gettysburg, and all the engagements of the Army 
of the Potomac. Mr. Poorman was married on the 27th of November, 1862, at 
Grafton, Vt., during service in the army, to Miss Adelaide Plattenberg, a native of 
the Old Dominion, born July 2, 1833, and the daughter of John and Ellen (Jeffers) 
Plattenberg; both native Virginians, but both now deceased, the latter dying at the 
home of her daughter, Mrs. Poorman. In 1883 Mr. Poorman located in Goshen, 
making his headquarters here but continuing to travel for a few years. In January, 
1886, in company with Thomas B. Starr, he purchased the fruit and confectionery 
store which they are at present operating. Although the business was originally 
established by Mr. Starr and at present is known as "Starr's Fruit Store," it is 
now admirably managed by both gentlemen and they are doing a very successful 
business. Mr. Poorman is a member of the I. O. O. F., the G. A. R. and two 
Commercial Traveler's Associations. In politics he is a strong Republican and is 
thoroughly American in everything. 

Daniel W. Houser, the prominent merchant, lumberman and saw-miller of North 
Liberty, St. Joseph Co., Ind., is a product of Ohio, his birth occurring December 7, 
1842, being the fourth of eleven children born to George and Lucy (Long) Houser, 
the former of whom was born in Union county, Penn., in February, 1813. His 
father was John Houser, who was also a Pennsylvanian, and of German descent. 
He came to St. Joseph county, Ind., in 1858, and was here called from life in 1861, 
his wife's death taking place in Ohio. George Houser was one of the eldest of his 
parents' children, and after removing from his native State was a resident of Ohio 
until 1858, at which time he became a citizen of St. Joseph county, Ind, and tilled 
the soil in Liberty township until his death in 1884, at which time he was a worthy 
member of the Evangelical Church, and in politics was a Republican, although he 
had been a Whig prior to the formation of that party. He was a man well known 
for his public spirit, and possessed those qualities essential to good citizenship. He 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIANA. 461 

made a good home for his family and reared eleven children: Sarah, who married 
Levi J. Knepp; Catherine G. , who married Alfred Stump, and resided at Falls City, 
Neb. ; M. G. , who is a farmer of Liberty township, this county ; Daniel W. ; Emaline, 
wife of John Steel, a farmer of Liberty township; John, who is a farmer of Union 
township, of this county; C. D., who is a merchant; Elizabeth, wife of John J. 
Garrett, is living in McCook, Neb.; Lorenzo M., who died in 181*0, left a family 
of three children, was a merchant, was at one time township treasurer, and 
politically was a Republican, and in every respect a public spirited citizen; B. F., 
who is living at Lakeville, is a teacher in the public schools of the county, and 
Lucy, who is the widow of Daniel Klinglesmith. The mother of this family is liv- 
ing with her children, and has attained to the age of seventy-five years. She is 
highly esteemed wherever known, and is a worthy and useful member of the Evan- 
gelical Church. The father lived to see his children grow up and become well tixed in 
life. He became a member of the Masonic fraternity in 1867, joining North Liberty 
Lodge, No. 266. Daniel W. Houser has been a resident of St. Joseph county since 
about thirteen years of age, and obtained a practical education in the district schools 
of Ohio and Indiana, and a thorough knowledge of farming in both States. "When 
a young man of twenty years he started in the lumber business as a saw-miller, and 
since 1870 has continuously operated a mill, first following the occupation on the 
old home farm. In 1873 he erected a good mill in North Liberty, where, in addition 
to doing a lumbering business he also operates a grist-mill. He is also associated 
with his brother, C. D., in the mercantile business, and in this as well as in his 
other enterprises he has been remarkably successful, doing an annual business of 
about S25,000. He is a strong Republican politically, has held the office of town- 
ship trustee, and is a member of the A. F. & A. M. Lodge of North Liberty, and 
South Bend, No. 13, Knight Templars, in which he has always held some office. In 
1877 he was married to Miss Ella Briggs, of this township, a daughter of Mrs. 
Charlotte Briggs, of North Liberty. Mrs. Houser was born in 1853, and has borne 
her husband a son and daughter: Gail, born December 31, 1877, and Eva M., born 
in 1879, and died at the age of nine months. The mother of these children died in 
1884. His present wife was formerl}' Mrs. Eliza J. Cole, who has borne him one 
child: Mildred C, who was born January 18, 1889. Mr. Houser in his numerous 
enterprises employs about twelve men, and is himself constantly busy. He has a 
finely improved farm in Liberty township of 400 acres, and all the property of 
which he is now possessed is the result of his own intelligence and good manage- 
ment. His business ability and honesty have been warmly recognized, and have met 
their reward. He enjoys the respect of all, and his friendship is a personal privilege 
much sought after. He is socially one of the most companionable of men, and is a 
beau ideal citizen, for he is enterprising, public spirited and law abiding. In this 
brief summary of points in Mr. Houser' s career it should be said as excuse for any 
omission that a biography of more pretension could best convey the lessons of his 
life of industry and intelligent management, which is full of instruction to those 
who, halt and weary, are inclined to doubt the possibility of success. His career is of 
value, for it shows that honesty, capacity and power "to hustle" receive their 
reward at last and in good measure. 

Gov. Abr.vm a. Hammonh although, comparatively speaking, but a short time 
in public life, in Indiana, was a man gifted with intellect of a high order, and 
polished by a superior education and extended reading. ^Vhile possessed of a 
strong will, he had that happy faculty of acquiring friends in the midst of contro- 
versj-, and of winning lawsuits when the case was considered well nigh hopeless. 
He was a native of the Green Mountain State, his birth occurring at Brattleboro in 
March, 1814. When a boy he drifted we^itward with the tide of emigration, stopped 
in Indiana where he studied law, and in 1835 was admitted to the bar. In 1850 he 
was made judge of the common pleas court, at Indianapolis, but later, after having 
gone to the Pacific coast, located in Terre Haute, which place has been the home of 



4«2 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

some of the best known men of the State, prominent among whom are the Hon. R. 
W. Thompson, Hon. D. W. Voorhees and the Hon. Thomas H. Nelson. In 1860 
he was elected governor of the State, but owing to ill health was compelled to 
resign about a year later. Going to Colorado to recruit, he received benefit from 
its high altitude and continued to there reside until his death, August 27, 1874. 
Governor Hammond has one brother now living in Indiana who has served upon 
the supreme bench of the State, and is considered one of the best lawyers in Indiana 
— the Hon. Edwin P. Hammond, of Rensselaer, a man of high literary attainments 
and possessed of equal polish to that of the subject of this memoir. 

Richard C. Lake is a native West Virginian, born in Monongalia county, on 
March 27, 1815, and is of English descent, his parents, Nimrod and Margaret (Knotts) 
Lake, being natives of that country. His paternal grandparents, William and Polly 
(Asbury) Lake, were born in England and crossed the ocean to America in 1795. 
They settled on a farm in Harrison county, W. Va., and there passed the remainder 
of their days. William Lake was the owner of a large plantation in West Virginia 
and was an extensive slave holder. Nimrod Lake was born June 20, 1783, and was 
twelve years of age when he came to America with his parents. He grew to mature 
years on his father's plantation, and in the year 1813 was married to Miss Margaret 
Knotts, who was born in 1786, and who was the daughter of Levi and Rebecca 
Knotts. Mr. and Mrs. Knotts also came to America in 1795, making the vo3'age on 
the same vessel with the Lake family, and after reaching this country settled in the 
same county. Mr. Knotts kept the first store of Pruntytown and several years 
later started on a trip to Ohio, which was then an uninhabited wilderness, and after 
crossing the Ohio River was never afterward heard from. His wife made her home 
in Pruntytown until her death several years afterward. Soon after their marriage 
Mr. and Mrs. Lake settled in Monongalia county, W. Va., and tilled the soil the 
remainder of their days. Mrs. Lake died April 1, 1815, and Mr. Lake survived her 
until the winter of 1859-6t». Mr. Lake had two brothers, Jeremiah and Will- 
iam, who served in the War of 1812. Richard C. Lake remained in his native 
county until twenty-three years of age, and during his youth followed teaming, 
going to Baltimore very frequently. In 1837 he came to Indiana with a party of 
twenty- seven, made the trip overland and was about forty days on the waj', camping 
out at night. Mr. Lake enjoyed this trip very much. Lately he visited his child- 
hood home and the trip that consumed nearly forty days in years gone by, was gone 
over in eleven hours. Mr. Lake landed in Kosciusko county, Ind. , June 16, 1837, 
and about three weeks later came to Elkhart county to work in the harvest field, 
this being the first work of the kind he ever tried to do. He was a carpenter by 
trade and during the summer season worked at the same. When Notre Dame was 
started he worked a year at his trade at that place and was employed on the finest 
buildings. He spent his first winter in Elkhart, when there were but nine families 
in the town, and on April 16, 1844, three miles east of Elkhart, he was married to 
Miss Nancy J. Middleton, who was born near Columbus, Ohio, in Franklin county. 
Her parents, John and Elizabeth (Downing) Middleton, were natives respectively of 
New Jersey and Delaware, and moved to the Buckeye State at a very early date, 
traveling the entire distance on horseback and settling in Franklin county. In 
March, 1830, Mr. Middleton came with his family to Elkhart county, and settled on 
Two Mile Plain, near Elkhart, where he entered 320 acres of land. On this he 
erected a rude log cabin with puncheon floor, and many privations were suffered by 
Mr. Middleton lu clearing and improving his farm, for he was one of the first set- 
tlers of the county. Indians were numerous, wild animals filled the woods, and 
settlers were miles apart. On this farm Mr. and Mrs. Middleton passed the re- 
mainder of their days, witnessing the marvelous growth and development of the 
country and contiibuting their share toward its advancement. Mrs. Middleton died 
in February, 1839, and Mr. Middleton followed her to the grave in July, 1845. 
After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Lake they came to Jefferson township, settled 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 463 

on the farm they now own in Section 10. At the time of settlement the land was 
wholly unimproved and covered with a heavy growth of timber. On this Mr. Lake 
erected a hewn-log cabin, which was considered a handsome edifice in those days, 
and began clearing and developing. He and his estimable wife have lived to see 
the wonderful changes made in the country in the last forty years and have aided 
materially in its progi-ess and advancement. To Mr. and Mrs. Lake were born 
these children: Nimrod E. (deceased), John O., Mary E. (deceased), Margaret J. 
(deceased), George W... William D. (deceased), James I. and Richard C. This 
worthy couple are members of the United Brethren Church, and Mr. Lake has 280 
acres of land, the principal part of which is under cultivation. The log cabin of 
pioneer days has given place to a large, handsome frame structure and other neces- 
sary improvements have been made until at the present time they have one of the 
finest places in the township. Mr. Lake is now able to retire from the active duties 
of life and pass the remainder of his days in peace and plenty. Although he looks 
after his business interests personally and rents his estates, his son, James I., re- 
sides on the homestead with his two children, his wife being dead. In politics Mr. 
Lake is a Democrat, but in early days was a Whig, his first vote being for Martin 
Van Buren. 

John H. Postius is a merchant and the efficient servant of Uncle Sam in the 
postotfice at Crumstown, Ind. , at which place he also owns a one-balf interest in a 
dairv of eighty cows. He is a native Peunsylvanian, his birth occurring in Juniata 
county, April 20, 1846, a son of W'illiam and Eliza (Haas) Pontius, who were also 
from the Keystone State. The father was a farmer and was killed in Pennsylvania, 
in a saw-mill, when the subject of this sketch was a child of four years, his widow 
yet being a resident of that State. In the State of his birth John H. Pontius resided 
until he was about seventeen years of age, when he then determined to enlist in the 
service of his country, and on the 11th of March, 1864, his name could be found 
on the rolls of Company B, Second Battalion, Sixteenth United States Infantry. 
He remained in the service for three years, receiving his final discharge on the 
11th of March, 1867. While in the regular army he was in several severe engage- 
ments, and for four months was under tire from Chattanooga to Atlanta. Upon 
receiving his discharge he returned to his home and once more took upon himself the 
duties of a civilian. After remaining there about two years he came to St. Joseph 
county, with the expectation of bettering his financial condition, but at the end of 
two years he turned his face toward the setting sun and Kansas became his objective 
point. After a residence there of only one year he came back to his old " stamping 
ground" in St. Joseph county, and here his home has since continued to be. For a 
number of years after permanently locating here agriculture occupied his time and 
attention, then he moved to his present location and here, since aboitt 1886, he has 
been interested in the dairy business, owning a half interest in eighty cows, the farm 
on which they feed being located about eleven miles southwest of South Bend. The 
milk is sold by the wholesale in that place and has proven a profitable industry to 
the proprietors. Mr. Pontius has lieen a married man since 1868, for at that time 
he took a wife in Pennsylvania in the person of Miss Mary E. Lower, a daughter 
of Jacob and Mary Lower, of that State also. The father was called from 
the scene of his earthly labors in Pennsylvania, and his widow afterward came to 
South Bend, Ind., where her home has been since 1880. John H. Pontius is one of 
two children born to his parents, of whom he was the elder, and since 1886 has 
efficiently filled the position of postmaster of Crumstown, and being a stanch Repub- 
lican cast his first presidential vote for Gen. Grant. While in the army he was a 
non-commissioned officer with the rank of sergeant, and is now a member of the 
G. A. R. He has an interesting family consisting of one son and three daughters. 

Hex. AsHBEL P. WiLLAED (deceased) was born October 31, 1820, in Oneida county, 
N. Y.. the son of Col. Erastus Willard, who was sheriff of that county at one time. 
His mother's given and maiden name being Sarah Parsons. He graduated with 



464 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

honors, having the post assigned him of valedictorian of the class of 1842, of Ham- 
ilton College. In 1845 he became a resident of Indiana, and embarking in the 
practice of law at New Albany, practiced only a short time when he became involved 
in politics. In 1850 he was elected from Floyd county to the State Legi-slature, and 
his brilliancy there won for him a wide reputation, and the chairmanship of the Com- 
mittee of Ways and Means. In 1852 he was chosen lieutenant governor of the 
State, which position he tilled four years, and was then honored, by the election of 
1856, to the governorship of Indiana. He died October 4, 1860. Gov. Willard's 
career, in many respects, was a most remarkable one. He was a resident of Indiana 
only fifteen years. When in the State only seven years he was chosen to the second 
highest office within the gift of the people, and when only eleven years old in the 
State, was made governor. His most marked intellectual powers were that of will 
and intuition; these he possessed to an unusual extent. 

Henry Bemendeefer. The above mentioned gentleman is one of the wide-awake, 
thoroughgoing business men of Elkhart county, and has been engaged in the man- 
ufacture of brick in this county since 1861). In March, 1865, he purchased his 
present farm, on which brick had been manufactured by lease for two years, the lease 
covering a period of five years. At the expiration of his lease Mr. Bemenderfer 
purchased machinery, etc., and has carried on the business ever since. He has a 
machine for the manufacture of pressed brick with a capacity of from twelve thou- 
sand to fifteen thousand per day, and gives employment to twelve men. Mr. Bemen- 
derfer was born in Loudoun county, Va. , August 18, 1824, and his parents were Peter 
and Susanna (Rahn) Bemenderfer, natives of Adams county, Penn., where they were 
reared and married. About the year 1813 they removed to Loudon county, Va., 
made their home there for fifteen years, and in the fall of 1828 moved to Stark 
county, Ohio, where the family settled on a farm. Peter Bemenderfer was a car- 
penter by trade, and followed this until he went to Virginia, when he was engaged 
in the milling business. After settling in Ohio he devoted his attention to farming, 
the nearest market for grain being eleven miles distant, where the canal passed 
through Massillon, Ohio. In 1838 Mr. Bemenderfer removed to Carroll county, where 
his death occurred in 1856, his wife surviving him until 1862. They were the par- 
ents of the following children: William, died in infancy; W'illiam; Samuel; Peter; 
Joseph; John; Henry; Isaac; Elizabeth; Susanna; Sarah and Catherine, all of 
whom are deceased except John, Susanna, Henry and Isaac. At the age of four 
years our subject settled with his parents in Stark county, Ohio, and grew to man- 
hood on the farm, receiving his education in the log school-houses of the early day. 
He learned the carpenter and cabinet maker's trade, and followed this for twenty-six 
years. On September 25, 1851, he married Miss Rebecca E. Prince, a native of 
Stark county, Ohio, born in 1838, and the daughter of Reuben Prince, a native of 
the Old Dominion. Her mother died when Mrs. Bemenderfer was a child. To Mr, 
and Mrs. Bemenderfer were born ten children: John P. (deceased), Mary E., Be- 
linda S., Allen R., Charles H., Cora E., George W., Hattie May, Bertie I. (deceased), 
and Emma Frances, who died when seven years of age. Mr. Bemenderfer came to 
Elkhart county in the spring of 1865, settled on his present farm, consisting of 115 
acres in Section 24, and also purchased fifty-five acres in another part of Jefferson 
township. In politics Mr. Bemenderfer is a Democrat, and served as trustee of 
Jefferson township for over ten years. He is a successful, enterprising farmer and 
business man, and has many warm friends. He has also held the office of county 
commissioner one term and discharged the duties of that position in a very creditable 
manner. He has a fine large two-story brick residence and is surrounded by every 
comfort and convenience. 

Daniel W. Peffley, the efficient trustee and a successful farmer of Warren town- 
ship, St. Joseph Co., Ind., is the product of Jackson township, Elkhart Co, Ind,, 
his advent into this world occurring on August 28, 1846, his parents being 
Joseph and Catherine (Burtner) Peffley, who were born in Lebanon county, Penn., 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 465 

April 12, 1817, and Cumberland county, Penu., June 10, 1819, respectively. The 
father died in Warren township, this county, January 24, 1885, having immigrated 
from Pennsylvania to Montgomery county, Ohio in 1820 with his parents, who were 
born in Pennsylvania, but were of German descent. In the Buckeye State Joseph 
Peffley was married, in 1843 became a resident of Elkhart county, Ind., and of St. 
Joseph county in 1848. The mother was called from this life on November 7, 1884. 
Her father, George Burtner, was a Pennsylvanian, who became a resident of 
Montgomery county, Ohio, in an early day. Joseph Peffley was a jarosperous tiller 
of the soil, was an influential minister of the I'uited Brethren Church, and was a 
prominent and influential citizen of the different sections in which he resided. 
Daniel W. was the fourth child in a family of five sons, and in St. Joseph county he 
was reared, his education being acquired in the common country schools, and in the 
high school of South Bend. At the age of twenty-one he began teaching school, 
and followed this occupation during the winter months for ten years, his summers 
being devoted to tilling the soil, in both of which occupations he was successful. 
He was first elected trustee of Warren township in 1880, and served very efiiciently 
as such, for four years, then was out of oiSce four years. At the end of this time 
he was again elected to the same oflice, and was honored Ijy a re-election in 1890. 
In the conduct of the affairs of this office, he has shown himself to be capable, 
energetic and faithful, and. in fact, the right man in the right place. He is one of 
the substantial citizens of his section, and is highly regarded by his many acquaint- 
ances. The principles of the Republican party have always commended themselves 
to his excellent judgment, and his first presidential vote was cast for U. S. Grant, 
He is greatly interested in the affairs of his section, keeps well posted and up with 
the times in all respects, and his good judgment can always be relied upon. His farm 
of 160 acres is advantageously located about five miles west of the county seat, and 
is an admirably tilled farm, showing that a man of enlightened and intelligent 
views, as well as one who is industrious and enterprising, has the management of 
affairs. In May, 1880, ho was united in marriage with Miss Frances Clay of Union 
township, who was born in Darke county, Ohio, a daughter of Andrew J. and Nancy 
Clay, who settled in St. Joseph county, Ind., in 1865. Mr. Clay is now living in 
South Bend. Mr. Peffley was called upon to mourn the death of his wife on Feb- 
ruary 3, 1885, having borne her husband one son and one daughter; Essie B. and 
Harry D. Mr. Peffley's second union was consummated on December 9, 1888, to 
which union one child has been born. Jay Earl. During the Civil war Mr. Peffley 
was not in the service, but two of his brothers, Simon and Henry, were participants 
in the great conflict. 

John U. Walter, who for twenty-eight years has made his home in St. Joseph 
county, Ind., is one of the most prominent and well-to-do farmers of Union town- 
ship, and has a fine home about one mile southeast of Lakeville. He was born in 
Wurtemberg. Germany, September 9, 1832, the youngest of three children born 
to John and Waklburg (Gleckler) Walter, both of whom were born in Germany, the 
former dying there about 1878, and the latter in 1849. The father was a prosper- 
ous farmer, and during Napoleon's time was drafted into the army, and was employed 
to carry off the wounded from the field. He was married twice, his first wife being 
a Miss Stetter, by whom he became the father of five sons: George, John, David, 
Jacob and Albrecht, all of whom are now deceased, David being the only one to 
come to the United States. He reached this country in 1859, married, reared a 
family and died in Whitlej' county, Ind. After the death of his first wife Mr. Wal- 
ter wedded Miss Gleckler, who bore him the following children : Octavins, who 
resides on the old homestead in Germany; Anna, who died after her marriage with 
Frederick Stetter, and John U., the subject of this sketch. Two children, Mariah 
and Anna, died in infancy. When eighteen years of age John U. Walter left the 
land of his birth and took passage on board a sailing vessel tor America, and after 
a voyage of eleven weeks landed at Castle Garden, New York, from which place he 



466 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

went to Sandusky City, Ohio. He bad received a good German education, and after 
reaching Ohio he apprenticed himself to a shoemaker, but remained with him only 
one month, when he began working on a farm, and followed that occupation until 
he married, in 1856, Miss Elizabeth Boyer becoming his wife. She is a daughter of 
Daniel and Caroline (Wolf) Boyer, who spent their lives in Bavaria, Germany, and 
is one of the three children born to them: Adam, Catherine and Elizabeth. Cath- 
erine died in the old country, and Adam lives on the old place in Germany. Mrs. 
Walter came to the United States on a sailing vessel with a cousin, and after a very 
pleasant voyage of thirty-one days she landed at New York. She and her cousin 
and his family proceeded to AVhitley county, lud., and there she was residing at the 
time of her marriage. Soon after the celebration of their nuptials Mr. and Mrs. 
Walter rented a small farm, but six years later purchased eighty acres, on which a 
little clearing had been done and a small cabin erected. After living there eighteen 
months they came to St. Joseph county by wagon, having three teams, and settled 
on the farm on which he is at present residing, his first purchase amounting to 120 
acres. He now has 205 acres, the most of which is improved, but on which are a 
few huckleberry marshes. He has followed general farming and has been very 
successful, especially as a raiser of good grain and stock. A strong Democrat in 
politics, he has always been very public spirited and has held the office of assessor of 
Union township two years, and on various occasions has been a member of the school 
board of his district. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church of 
Lakeville, and he is an elder and an active worker in the same. He and his wife 
have the esteem and respect of all who know them, and are deservedly classed 
among the uromiuent citizens of their section. Their children are as follows: Will- 
iam H. , born December 30, 1856, is unmarried and is a railroad man of Colorado; 
Anna E., born December 1, 1858, is the wife of George Barnhart of this county, by 
whom she has two children — Homer and Roxie; Mary E. was born January 7, 1861, 
is the wife of Frederick Zugelder of Colorado, and is the mother of three children — 
Carl, Hazel and Frederick; Catherine was born March 23, 1868, is the wife of 
Robert Robertson, of South Bend, and has three children — Gladys, Fern and Edith; 
Caroline was born February 14, 1866, is the teacher of music, has taught in the 
public schools and is now at home; David was born November 24, 1868, and died 
December 19, 1869; Edith was born December 15. 1870, and died January 22, 1892, 
and Linna, who was born October 20, 1872, is living at home and has been a school 
teacher. All these children seem to have a natural gift for music and their parents 
have given them all good educational advantages. 

Chakles E. Kdtz. No business requires a more thorough knowledge of details 
than that which relates to the sanitary conditions of our houses and public build- 
ings. Of late years this subject has received the careful study of scientific men 
who make sanitary plumbing a specialty, and the perfection to which the sci- 
ence has been brought is the best comment upon the intelligence which has been 
devoted to it. One of the successful Isusiness men engaged in plumbing and gas 
fitting is Mr. Charles E. Kutz, who is a skilled exponent of his craft and a promi- 
nent citizen of Goshen, born in Sunbury, Penn. , July 26, 1856. He is the sou of 
Daniel G. and Mary A. (Everett) Kutz. natives of Pennsylvania. The Kutz family 
came originally from Hessen Castle, Germany, and the Everett family trace their 
ancestry to Switzerland. Daniel G. Kutz was born in the year 1819, and his father 
was among the forty-niners who went to California, and as he was never afterward 
heard from it is supposed he was killed by Indians. Daniel was reared in his 
native State and when young learned the blacksmith's trade which he followed for a 
number of years and afterward removed to a farm. In the latter occupation he met 
with success and became the owner of a large amount of land. He was district 
lecturer of the State Grange and Government statistician and had the most important 
of the 300 tires in the repair department from 1863 to 1865, at Washington, D. C. 
About the year 1845 he married Miss Mary A. Everett, daughter of John and Sophia 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 467 

(Honser) Everett, natives of Germany, who came to America at an early date, settling 
in Pennsylvania, where they resided until their deaths. To Daniel G. Kutz and 
wife were born the following children: John, George, Charles E., William, Clinton, 
Hannah, Ella, Sarah, Fanny and Richard (deceased). The motherof these children 
passed to her final reward on the 9th of October, 1869, but the father survived 
until December 22, 1891. Charles E. Kutz was reared in his native county and 
there learned the trade of plumbing and gas -fitting. In 1873 he went to Pekin, 111. , 
and there worked in a blacksmith shop for about a year, afterward returning 
to his native State. For two years he worked in Sunbury Gas Works and in the 
spring of 1870 he went to Colorado, seeking his fortune in the mining districts. 
During the summer season he was engaged in prospecting and then when cold 
weather appeared he returned to Pennsylvania and worked at his trade until the fol- 
lowing spring. This he continued for three years but without success. In 1879 
he went to Seymour, Ind. , to assist in the construction of gas works and was man- 
ager of that institution for three years. From there he went to Louisville, worked 
at his trade for over a year and in October, 1882, he came to Goshen, where he 
became a member of the firm of Minnich &Kutz, dealers in plumbing, gas and steam- 
fitting, etc. In 1887 Mr. Minnich retired and the business has since been contin- 
ued by Mr. Kutz. He has made an excellent reputation for good work and is doing 
a thriving business. In the matter of charges, he makes it a rule to be moderate 
and reasonable, and this has undoubtedly had an influence in building up the excel- 
lent trade enjoyed. Another feature that has given great satisfaction among his 
patrons is the promptness with which all orders are attended to. He does the largest 
jobbing trade in his line in northern Indiana; performs work for town and county, 
and has contracts over northern Indiana and western Ohio and southern Michigan, 
the business increasing each year. In connection with his brother he had patented 
Kutz System of Hot Water Heating, for buildings of every decription, and this is 
generally in use in this section of country in the majority of the largest and best 
buildings. Socially Mr. Kutz is a K. of P., Lodge No. 41, Division No. 11. and is a 
charter member of the Knights of Maccabees. In politics he is a Republican. On 
the 21st of October, 1886, our subject was married to Miss Josephine Hottinger, 
who was born June 12, 1866, to the union of Alonzo audRosina Worster Hottinger, 
natives of Indiana. Mr. Hottinger died in 1880, but his wife is still living and 
finds a comfortable home with her daughter Josephine, in Goshen. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Kutz have been born one child, Graoie W., whose birth occurred September 
5, 1888. 

Hon. Schuyler Colfax was a true representative of what an American boy can 
become by his own unaided efforts. His life began in the city of New York, March 
23, 1823, and owing to the death of his father prior to his birth, he became the only 
living child of a widowed mother. Gen. William Colfax, his grandfather, was a 
lieutenant in the Continental army when only nineteen years old, and was a close 
and confidential friend of General Washington. General Colfax married Hester 
Schuyler and their third son was Schuyler Colfax, who was the father of the sub- 
ject of this sketch. It was in his native city that Schuyler, Jr., received his early 
schooling. At ten years of age he began clerking in a store and at thirteen immi- 
grated westward and found a home in New Carlisle, Ind. , where he clerked iintil 
1841, when he moved to South Bend. Prior to attaining his majority he served as 
reporter of the Senate for the State Journal and later was appointed deputy auditor 
of St. Joseph county. Instinctively he liked and seemed to grasp the ideas neces- 
sary to make a successful newspaper man. Purchasing the St. Joseph Valley 
Register in 1845, of which he was the founder, he continued its editor and publisher 
for a period of eighteen years, obtaining renown as a brilliant writer on all the prin- 
cipal topics of the day. His first election to ofiice was in 1850, when he became a 
member of the convention which framed the new constitution of the State. As a 
Whig he was nominated, much to his surprise, for Congress in 1851, but was de- 



468 PICTOBIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

feated by about 200 votes, claimed by his friends to have been illegally cast at Mich- 
igan City. The year following he was a delegate to the National Convention which 
nominated General Scott for the presidency, and in 1854 was elected to the Thirty- 
fourth Congress by 1,776 votes, although the district the preceding election gave a 
Democratic majority of 1,200. In 1858 he was re-elected to Congress and was 
made chairman of the Committee on Postotfices and Postroads. He was elected to 
the special session of Congress (the thirty-seventh) called to provide for the prose- 
cution of the war, and was active in raising troops for the suppression of the Kebel- 
lion. At the organization of the Thirty-eighth Congress Mr. Colfax was elected 
speaker on the first ballot, and in the Thirty-ninth Congress was re-elected to the 
position by a majority of 103 votes. At the organization of the Fortieth Congress Mr. 
Colfax was a third time elected speaker which fact attested his popularity with his 
colleagues. The favor with which his name was received was not coniiued to the 
halls of Congress, but extended all over the country, and so manifest was this that 
he was nominated by the Eepublicau party for the office of Vice-President of the 
United States in 1868 and was triumphantly elected. At the expiration of his term 
of office he returned to South Bend and, declining further political preferment, was 
practically retired from active life until his death. His home life was one of purity, 
happiness and affection. He was an ardent member of the I. O. O. F. and was 
founder of the Daughters of Rebecca degree. For a number of years he devoted 
his leisure to the delivery of lectures, principally upon the life and character of 
Abraham Lincoln, and in the prosecution of this work was found in almost every 
northern State in the Union. Mr. Colfax died in Mankato, Minn., January 13, 
1885. 

Joseph E. Gardner. Like many of the prominent citizens of the county, Mr. 
Gardner is of German nativity, born in Ruttenburg, February 26, 1810. His 
parents, Joseph and Victoria (Single) Gardner, were natives of the Fatherland also, 
and the father was a soldier under Napoleon. He was a prominent business man 
and had large interests in the city of Ruttenburg, operating flax, plaster and oil 
mills at that place for many years. He was twice married and to each union were 
born eleven children. In 1882 Mr. Gardner sold his business interests in his native 
country and came to America, settling six miles east of Buffalo, N. Y., where he 
purchased a farm of 260 acres. He subsequently built a canal boat and operated 
the same for several years on the Erie Canal, but finally moved to Michigan, where 
his death occurred about the year 1875. Twenty two years had passed over the 
head of our subject when he came with his parents to the "land of the free." 
During his early days he received a good education in the German language in his 
native country, and after reaching America he applied himself and through his own 
efforts succeeded in gaining a good practical English education. After settling in 
New York he started out to light life's battles for himself and as he received no as- 
sistance from his father, he began working by the day at whatever was profitable or 
legitimate. He selected his wife in the person of Miss Catherine Follmer, a native 
of Germany, born February 9, 1809. and their marriage was celebrated on October 
4, 1832. In 1832 Mr. and Mrs. Gardner turned their faces toward the setting sun, 
and went by boat to Detroit. After landing in that city Mr. Gardner purchased an 
ox team and into the wagon which he had lirought from Buffalo, he and wife started 
overland to Elkhart county. They were over a week on the way and camped out 
nights, experiencing many incidents of interest during that memorable trip. Ar- 
riving at Goshen, Mr. Gardner settled on eighty acres, about eight miles south- 
west of that town, in a log cabin, where he cleared about six acres of land. There 
he resided for about a year. The land at the time of settlement was not open to 
purchase, and at the time of sale he was beaten out of the same by land speculators 
and sharks. He was obliged to commence at the beginning once more and came to 
Jefferson township, this county, settling on his present property. At that time he 
purchased sixty acres, erected a rude log cabin, and began clearing the land and 



ME3I0IRS OF INDIANA. 469 

making a home. Indians were numerous and game of many kinds was in abun- 
dance. All the privations and trials of pioneer life were experiened by Mr. Gardner. 
During his early days iu Elkhart county he was engaged in teaming, hauling mer- 
chandise for business men at Goshen from distant points. In this way he made a 
start, and by careful management and good judgment in all that he undertook, has 
acquired a competency. He now owns 280 acres of land and on this has good, 
substantial buildings, an ornament to any farm. He has also been very generous 
to his children, giving them, in addition to a good education, $1,100 each. He has 
been progressive and enterprising, and is one of the oldest residents now residing 
in JeffersoQ township. He is liberal in his political views, generally voting for the 
best man. His children, seven in number, are named as follows: Henry (deceased), 
JohnL. , William, Joseph, Charles F. and George \Y. (twins), and Benjamin. Mr. 
Gardner is highly esteemed in Elkhart county and is one of that county's most pro- 
gressive and successful citizens. His son, George W. Gardner, was born in Jeffer- 
son township, Elkhart county, April 13, 1849, and was educated iu the schools of 
that county. When a young man he began learning the blacksmith's trade, but the 
duties at home required his services and he gave it up. He remained under the 
parental roof until of age, and on August 18, 1871, he was married to Miss Hen- 
rietta Overley, who was born October 17, 1851, and who was the daughter of Na- 
thaniel and Margaret (Caton) Overley, the latter a native of Maryland. The Catons 
were among the pioneer families of Jefferson township. To Mr. and Mrs. Gardner 
were born four children, as follows: Cora, married George Hamlet, and resides in 
Jefferson township; W'illiam, born March 21, 1872; Eugene, born October 12, 1873, 
and Harley E., born April Vi, 1877, and died January 21, 1879. After his marriage 
Mr. Gardner remained on the home place until 187-1. when he removed, with his 
family, to Goshen, and there made his home for nearly two years, Mr. Gardner op- 
erating a threshing machine during that time. He subsequently returned to the old 
homestead and there resided until the spring of 1891, when he purchased the farm 
where he now resides, consisting of eighty acres in Section 13, all under cultivation. 
Mr. Gardner pays considerable attention to the raising of horses. He Las been su- 
pervisor in the township for about twelve years and is a reliable, upright citizen. 
He is a successful farmer and business man and takes great pride iu supplying his 
children with every want. He and family are members of the Progressive Brethren 
Church, and in politics he is a Democrat. He is strong in his temperance views, 
although he does not favor partisan Prohibition. 

John Bubdick SL.iuoHTER was born near Ravenna, Ohio, March 3, 1831, and is the 
son of Solomon and Ruth (Burdick) Slaughter, natives respectively of Delaware 
and Massachusetts, the former born in 1805 and the latter in 1810. Solomon 
Slaughter was reared in the State of his nativity, and when about twenty-thi'ee years 
of age emigrated to Ohio, and settled on a farm near Ravenna. About the year 1829 
he was married to Ruth Burdick, the daughter of John and Maria (Thayer) Burdick 
who were pioneers of Summit county, Ohio. John B. Slaughter received the advan- 
tages of a district school education, attending during the winter season and passing 
the remainder of the time at work upon the farm. When quite a lad he started out 
to make his own way in life. His first efforts were upon the canal, where he passed 
some time driving a canal team. Afterward he went to Cleveland and began to 
learn the trade of marble cutting. Having mastered his trade, he returned to 
his native town and worked at the same for some time, but his health failing him, on 
account of too close attention to his work, in 1854 he went west to the wilds and 
prairies of Wisconsin and passed the winter in a logging camp among the pineries. 
In the spring he resumed work at his trade, purchasing an interest in a marble shop 
at Chicago. He afterward worked at different points throughout the West, includ- 
ing nearly three years at Ligouier, Ind., where he owned a shop and from 
which place he came to Goshen in 1859, where he has since resided. In March, 
1864, he was married to Miss Lydia Dean, who was born in Meadville, Penn., April 



470 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

13, 1839, to the marriage of A.bram and Isabella (Adams) Dean. To the union of 
Mr. and Mrs. Slaughter have been born three children: Halsey D., born May 27, 
1866, and died January 14, 1890; Leon B., born March 5, 1869, and Isabella, born 
September 10, 1874, and died December 25, 1881. Mr. Slaughter has neversought 
political honors, but has been twice elected to the common council of his city. He 
was for many years a member of the Masonic fraternity. During the period of 
nearly forty years that Mr. Slaughter has been in the marble business in this local- 
ity, he has placed his work in nearly every cemetery in northern Indiana and south 
ern Michigan and has marked the last resting place of thousands of his fellow- 
beings. 

Eli S. Huff. It is with true interest that the biographer takes up his pen to 
write of the HufF family, one of the prominent ones of the county, and of one of its 
members, Eli S. HufF, who is actively engaged in agricultural pursuits. This repre- 
sentative citizen was born in Elkhart county, Middlebury township, Ind. , Novemljer 
7, 1846, and is a son of Michael and Lucy A. (Bhicher) Huff, natives of Wayne 
county, Ohio. Michael HufF was born in 1816, and his father, Philip HufF, was a 
native of the Keystone State, but at an early date came to Wayne county, Ohio, with 
his family. There his death occurred. Michael was reared on a farm in Ohio and 
learned the broom trade, at which he worked during the winter months for thirty 
years. He was married to Miss Lucy A. Blucher, and the following children were 
born to them: Sarah A., Lavina (deceased), John H., Eli S., Chauncy (deceased) 
aud Malinda (deceased). In 1836 Mr. Huff and family came to Elkhart county, Ind., 
settled in Middlebury township and were among the pioneers of the same. Six years 
later he disposed of his property in Middlebury aud removed to Jefferson township, 
where he piirchased eighty acres of unimproved land in Section 12, which he cleared 
and improved. He afterward purchased additional land, and at one time owned 200 
acres, being a very successful agriculturist. His death occurred April 28, 1889, and 
his widow survived him until October 8, 1889. Six years had passed over the head of 
our subject when his parents settled in Jefferson township, and in this township he 
was reared. He assisted his father on the farm, and in his youthful days learned 
the broom-maker's trade of his father, working at the same during the winter months. 
His education was received in the schools of Jefferson township, and on February 
11, 1879, he was married to Eliza J. Cornell, who was born March 12, 18 — , a native 
of Ohio, and the latter of Elkhart county, Ind. Mrs. Cornell died in 1852, and Mr. 
Cornell now resides in Goshen. Mr. and Mrs. Huff are the parents of two children 
— Corella (married Edward Musbaum), and Frank. They have also an adopted child, 
Grace. Mr. Huff has 100 acres of land in Jefferson township, and on this he resides 
at the present time. He also owns about seventeen acres in Elkhart township, near 
Goshen. In politics he is a stanch Repi;blican, and has been supervisor of his town- 
ship. He is a member of the K. P. Lodge at Middlebury, aud he and wife hold mem- 
bership in the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Bykon K. Elliott, well known as a jurist and author throughout the United 
States, was born in Butler county, Ohio, Se23tember, 4, 1835. His ancestry is 
Pennsylvanian, from which State James Elliott, his grandfather, went to Ohio 
in 1799. Judge Elliott lived at Hamilton until 1849, and after a year or so 
spent in Cincinnati, came to Indianapolis in December, 1850. His education 
was received at Hamilton Academy, Furmau's Seminary, and the "Old Sem- 
inary '' in Indianapolis, Mr. Lang being at the time in charge. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar in February, 1858, on motion of Judge N. B. Taylor, and 
in May, 1859, was elected city attorney — a most convincing proof of ability and char- 
acter to command such a position at the age of twenty-four, and in the first year of 
professional life. Judge Elliott was in the hundred-day service as a captain in the 
One Hundred and Thirty-second Regiment, and was subsequently on General Mil- 
roy's staff as assistant adjutant general. On his return he resumed practice, and 
was elected city attorney again in 1865, and re elected in 1867 and 1869. In Octo- 




Hon. B. K. ELLIOTT. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 473 

ber, 1870, he was elected judge of the criminal court, and resigned the office of city 
attorney. In November, 1872, he resigned the judgeship to take the oflSce of city 
solicitor unanimously tendered him by the city council. He was elected city 
attorney once more in 1873, and one of the judges of the superior court in 1876. 
In 1880 he was nominated Ijy the Republicans for judge of the supreme court of 
Indiana and elected. He has been a member of that court ever since, serving for sev- 
eral terms as chief justice of the same. In 1892 he was re-nominated by acclamation 
for the same office. Judge Elliott is lecturer on equity and jurisprudence at De 
Pauw University at Greencastle, and at the Northwestern University, at Chicago, 
of which Henry Wade Rogers is president. He was married to Miss Harriet A. 
Talbott, of this city, September, 5, 1855. Judge Elliott is regarded, in and out of 
the profession, as one of thepure.st, fairest, and most clear-sighted of Indiana judges 
of this generation. His rulings and opinions are widely known and quoted, and 
there are few in which greater or more general confidence is felt than in his. He 
has also attained a national reputation as a writer of legal literature, and at the 
annual meeting of the National Bar Association, held in this city in August, 1890, 
was chosen to deliver the annual address. His subject on that occasion was "Local 
Self Government." It was a masterpiece of thought and diction. One of the most 
beautiful and touching orations of its kind ever delivered in the State was that of 
Judge Elliott at the memorial services in Goshen after the death of Judge J. A. S. 
Mitchell, early in 1890. It is a perfect classic. The Judge has been called on fre- 
quentlj', during his career, as a speaker on public, law, or literary topics, and has 
demonstrated the possession of ability in that direction, and a happy manner of 
treatment not usually possessed by those who, like him. closely bend themselves to 
hard and persistent work on the bench and in the field of legal instruction. The 
lack of space precludes that extended notice and review of Judge Elliott as a law 
writer which his merits deserve. Three volumes: " Work of the Advocate," "The 
Law of Roads and Streets," and "Appellate Procedure," were the joint production 
of himself and his son William F. Elliott. These books are isssed by the Bowen- 
Merrill Company of this city. The first is a large octavo volume of 770 pages, first 
issued in 1888. The second covers over 80(J pages, and has the largest and most 
general circulation of any law book published in recent years. The " Work of the 
Advocate" called forth from the Albany iya!''./oi(;'naZ, one of the most critical and im- 
partial of legal periodicals, a review of two pages in its editorial colunjns. in which 
the book is highly praised, not only from a lawyer's standpoint, but for its literary 
excellence. "It is a pleasure," says the editor of the Law Journal, "to read such 
an excellent stj'le, never diffuse and never barren, supplied with striking antitheses, 
and enlivened by apt anecdotes. The Judge is always acute and ingenious." All 
the leading law journals of the country have found much to commend in the book, 
and speak of it in equally just and flattering terms. The latest work has also been 
much praised by eminent lawyers and judges. In the same way judges of the 
supreme courts of many of the States and the leading lawyers of the entire country 
have given evidence of their appreciation of the volume. Mention is made of the 
remarkable demand for "The Law of Roads and Streets " in the chapter on book- 
making and publishing in this volume. It would be gratifying if it were possible to 
condense the opinions expressed on this work by the daily press of the country, as 
well as the legal journals and hundreds of eminent lawyers and judges. It would 
be ea.sy to cover many of the broad pages of this work with extracts like the 
following, which is a sample of many, and in this instance taken from the Central 
Laiv Journal, of St. Louis: " The high reputation and wide experience of Judge 
Elliott as a member of the supreme court of Indiana is such that our readers need 
not be told that he is capable of preparing a thoroughly good law book. He is the 
oldest, and by common consent, the leading member of that court, and, indeed, 
in point of learning and ability occupies a place in the front rank of the eminent 
jurists of this country. His opinions on the bench always exhibit great care, thought 
and laborious research, and contain terse, vigorous statements of the law." 

28 



474 PICTORIAL AND BlOGliAPUICAL 

Hon. Albert Osborn. Tho Osborn family is one of the prominent ones of Elk- 
hart county and the tirst member to take root on American soil was the great- 
grandfather of our subject, who was born in England and who braved Neptune's 
tender mercies and settled in Massachusetts at an early date. He brought his wife 
with him and in that State both passed the remainder of their days. Their son, 
Enos Osborn, grandfather of subject, grew to manhood in that State, and was there 

married to Miss Naoma . He tilled the soil there for many years and then 

moved with his family to Otsego county, N. Y. , and about 1840 from there to 
St. Joseph county, Mich. There he made a permanent settlement, and there his 
death occurred about the year 1870, at the advanced age of ninety-seven years. His 
wife had passed away several years prior to that. Both were natives of the Old 
Bay State. Their son, Daniel Osborn, was born in Massachusetts and was but a 
mere child when his parents settled in New York State. In that State he grew to 
manhood and received a common-school education. He learned the clothier trade 
when young, but did not follow it to any great extent, being engaged in other 
enterprises from which he realized big returns. He was also a minister of local 
fame, although he did not follow it at any time as a business, being an agriculturist 
for the most part. He was married in Otsego county, N. Y.. to Miss Margaret 
Miller, a daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Miller, both of whom were natives of 
New York and of German descent. Mr. Miller resided in New York until after the 
death of his wife after which he went to Missouri and made his home with his 
children, all of whom had emigrated to different parts of the West. He lived to be 
nearly one hundred years old and during his latter days was remarkably sprightly, 
retaining his faculties in a wonderful manner until his death, which occurred in 
Missouri. In 1835 Daniel Osborn and family removed to St. Joseph county, Mich., 
settled on wild land purchased from the Government and covered with timber, and 
on this erected a hewn-log cabin, which was considered a very good house for those 
days. Having spent all his money in the purchase of the farm and getting settled 
he had very little left at the l)eginniug of winter. He was not easily discouraged 
and purchasing an ax handle for a pattern, began making these out of the limited 
amount of hickory timber on his place, for the market. During his tirst winter in 
Michigan he made and sold about .S80 worth of these handles and afterward often 
wondered how he would have supported his family in any other way during that 
first season. On this farm Mr. Osborn lived until his death in 1860, being nearly 
sixty years of age. During his residence in St. Joseph county he was ofiScially con- 
nected with the same at different times in various capacities and discharged his 
duties in a satisfactory and creditable manner. His wife survives him and resides 
with a daughter in Goshen, being now over ninety four years of age. Their son, 
Albert Osborn, subject of this sketch, was born in the Empire State. Otsego coimty, 
April 2, 1824, and is not only one of the foremost agriculturists of Elkhart county, 
Ind., but one of its most influential citizens. He was but eleven years of age when 
his parents emigrated from his native Stateto St. Joseph county, Mich., and in the 
latter State he finished his growth and learned habits of economy and industry. He 
attended the common schools of the county and walked two and a half miles morn- 
ing and evening to obtain a limited education, always improving his time when in 
the school-room. He was married in St. Joseph county, February 2, 1845. to Miss 
Catherine Kirkwood, a native of Greene County Ohio, born in 1824, and the daugh- 
ter of William and Elizabeth (Schover) Kirkwood. the former a native of the Buck- 
eye State and the latter of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Kirkwood died when Catherine was 
quite small and Mr. Kirkwood's death occurred in Ohio a number of years later. 
After marriage Mr. Osborn settled in St. Joseph county, Mich., and a few years 
afterward in Ohio. In 1852 Mr. Osborii made a trip to California, going across the 
plains, and returned in December, 1855, the trip proving a profitable one. In the 
spring of 1863 he came to Elkhart county, settled in Jackson township, and two 
years later removed to Jefferson township. There he settled on the farm where he 



MEMOIIiS OF INDIANA. 475 

now resides and has since been classed among the representative men of tLe county. 
In 1872 he was elected to the Legislature and served two years. In 1890 he was 
nominated on the Democratic ticket for tlie Legislature and although the county has 
a Republican majority of 300 or more, he was elected, thus showing his popularity. 
He was renominated last year (1892) by his party. Mr. Osborn is a very con- 
scientious man in all that pertains to his official life and work and votes for the 
best interests of the people, regardless of party affiliations. He is an upright, honora- 
ble man aud is popular iu his county regardless of party. He has never sought 
office, never solicited a vote, his nominations and elections coming unsolicited. ]Mr. 
Osborn has a farm of 200 acres of well-improved laud, is progressive and enterpris- 
ing, and one of the prosperous men of his section. He recently deeded an undivided 
one-half of the property to his only child, Ira A., who resides on and superintends 
the homestead. He was born in St. Joseph county, Mich., February 2, 1846, and 
passed his boyhood days on the farm. He came to Jefferson township, Elkhart 
county, Ind., with his parents in 1865 and there has made his home since. He was 
educated in the public schools and when he decided to take unto himself a wife he 
selected Miss Josephine Chamberlain, a native of Goshen, Ind., born August 8, 
1853, and the daughter of Smith and Elizabeth (Lathrop) Chamberlain, the former a 
native of New Jersey and the latter of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Osborn are the parents 
of two children: Frank A. and Albert S. Mr. Osborn is trustee of the township, 
has held that position for four j'ears, and is an energetic young man, a successful 
farmer, and a leader in the Democratic party in Jefferson township. He is a mem 
ber of the Farmer's Alliance. His mother died January 8, 1891. She waS an ex- 
cellent woman and had many warm friends. 

Robert E. Ch.\ttex has. perhaps, as many friends as any man in Elkhart county. 
He is a native of Adrian, Mich., his birth occurring April 2, 1857. His youth was 
passed amid more hardships than usually fall to the lot of boys, as his advantages 
were of a very limited nature, and when barely old enough he had to work, not only 
for himself, but his mother and live younger children. In 1867 the family moved to 
Elkhart county and settled in the village of Benton. He then worked on the bench 
at shoemaking. While yet a youth he became librarian for his township, and 
having access to the valuable reading matter it contained and the school text-books, 
he made the most of his opportunities, and his leisure hours were devoted to reading 
and study, whereby he obtained a practical education. While working hard from 
early morning until late at night, he would then burn the "midnight oil'' in pur- 
suing his researches after knowledge. He worked at the bench and pursued his 
studies until he attained his majority, aud during this time he was fortunate enough 
to attend Oberlin College, Ohio, for three months. Upon attaining his twenty- 
second year he was elected to the office of justice of the peace, and was probably the 
youngest man ever elected to that position in the Stale of Indiana. In discharging 
his duties he showed great wisdom and judgment, and his services were known and 
appreciated by those who had elected him to the office. About 1880 he concluded 
that his chances for success in life would be greater in the West, and upon announcing 
his intention, was strongly urged by his friends to forego such desires, and he did 
so. About this time his particular friend and counsellor. Captain Thompson, became 
a candidate for the office of sheriff, and young Chatten did all in his power for his 
friend's election, and the result was the Captain's election to the office. The latter 
then appointed Mr. Chatten his deputy, not only in recognition of the services that had 
been rendered him, but from the fact that he was an intelligent young man and well 
qualified for the position. Mr. Chatten soon after went to the county seat, aud, not- 
withstanding the fact that he was a green country boy, he tilled the position 
admirably. In 1886 he sought the nomination of sheriff at the hands of the Repub- 
lican county convention, and on the first ballot was nominated, a fact that showed 
that while tilling the position of deputy, he builded better than he knew. He made 
the canvass of the county, and much to his surprise was elected by the unprecedented 



476 PICTORIAL ^i^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

majority of 1,486 votes, the nominal majority being understood to be about three 
hundred. The inference gained is, that Mr. Chatten was a popular candidate, to 
say the least. That he filled the position satisfactorily is evidenced by his re elec- 
tion two years later by a majority of 1,586 — just 100 more votes than at his first 
election. Mr. Chatteu was married November 15, 1885, to Miss Annie Darr, and by 
her is the father of one daughter: Madge M. Mr. Chatten is a K. of P. and the 
order of Chosen Friends. 

John B. H.\bey. Among the old soldiers whose life records are to be found in 
the annals of Elkhart county, Ind. , and whose bravery and endurance upon the bat- 
tlefield and in the march are a story well worth telling, we can give the name which 
appears at the head of this sketch. His parents, George and Rebecca (Brewer) 
Haliey, were natives of Pennsylvania, and there the former received his final sum- 
mons. The latter died in Elkhart county, York township, lud., in 1873. Our sub- 
ject first saw the light of day in Pennsylvania May 30, 1886, and he made his home 
there until eighteen years of age, when he came to St. Joseph county, Mich. Six 
years later, or in the fall of 1860, he purchased a farm where he now lives, and 
settled upon it in May, 1861. At that time he had fifty acres of land covered with 
timber, and he erected a house 16x20 feet, double boards, and resided in this for 
several years before it was plastered. He was married January 29, 1856, to Miss Mary 
E. Hass, daughter of William Hass, by a former marriage (see sketch). She was 
born October 9, 1837, and by her marriage became the mother of four children, 
viz.: Clara A., born February 17, 1857, married B. T. Vandecarr, and is now re- 
siding at South Bend, Ind.; William M. , born May 26, 1859, is studying for the 
ministry, and has nearly completed a thorough course at Wittinburg College at 
Springfield, Ohio; Susannah, born June 1, 1861, married H. L. Brown May 2, 1883, 
and now resides in Chicago, and Jennie I. Y. , born December 27, 1874, and is now 
residing at home. Mr. Habey has the original farm be purchased in this township, 
and has added to this eleven acres of timber land in St. Joseph county, Mich. On 
August 11, 1862, Mr. Habey enlisted in Company I, Eighty-eighth Indiana Infantry, 
and dedicated himself to his country's cause for three years, unless sooner killed or 
disabled. About six weeks after leaving home he participated in the battle of 
Perry ville, Ky., which occurred October 8, 1862, and about a year after enlistment 
he was transferred to the veteran reserve corps, for what reason he does not know. 
He has a good record, as the fine recommendations of acting assistant Adjt. Gen. 
E. R. P. Shurley shows, while he was sergeant of Company D, Eighth Regiment 
Veteran Reserve Corps at Camp Douglas, Chicago. Among other things Capt. 
Shurley said: "Habey is a man of more than ordinary executive ability, and has 
been deserving of increased rank. The camp is wholly indebted to him for its 
architectural beauties. It has increased and grown into its splendid proportions 
under his skill and mechanical ingenuity. The records from his old company state 
that he has been energetic, brave and patriotic. He is of the class of men who have 
served the Government. He has saved the Government at this point by his judg- 
ment and skill vast sums of money." This complimentary letter was dated Camp 
Douglas, July 6, 1865. Another letter dated July 2, 1865, and signed by Eugene 
V. Roddin, quartermaster, was equally complimentary. From the effects of rheu- 
matism and other disabilities contracted in field service Mr. Habey is at present 
incapacitated for work and receives a pension of ?10 per month. He is a member 
of the G. A. R. , and in politics is a firm advocate of Republican principles. He 
and Mrs. Habey are worthj^ members of the Lutheran Church and are highly 
respected in the community. 

Gov. James D. Willi.\ms, or more popularly known as "Blue- Jeans" AVilliams, 
represented the old type of the true gentleman. He was not gifted with the polish 
that comes of a finished education or that is usual in the case of public men. A 
Democrat of the Jeffersouian school in all that the term implies, a man of remarka- 
ble force of character, simple and unostentatious in his intercourse with his fellow- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 477 

'men, honest as the day was long, it is no wonder that "Blue-Jeans" Williams ob- 
tained a strong hold upon the hearts of the masses. He was born January 16, 1808, 
in Pickaway county, Ohio, moved with his parents to Knox county, Ind. , when ten 
years old, was reared to hard work on the home farm, and was taught to believe that 
it was far better to be able to boast of his skill in plowing, clearing, splitting rails, 
swinging the cradle and the like, than it was to boast of his education. As a con- 
sequence his schooling was of a very meager character; but what he lacked in this 
respect was modified to a considerable extent by desultory readings and in his in- 
tercourse with men of learning. When twenty years old his father died, and the 
care of the family devolved upon him, and three years later occurred his marriage 
with Nancy Huffman. When thirty-one years of age he began his public career by be- 
coming a justice of the jjeace, but in 1843 resigned and was elected to the State 
Legislature. From IB-IS to 1874 Mr. Williams was almost continually in the Legis- 
lature of the State, either as representative or senator. In the year last mentioned 
he was elected to represent his district in Congress, was made chairman of the Com- 
mittee on Accounts of the House, and while not making a brilliant record in his one 
term as Congressman, he gave a thoroughly able and honest representation. In 1876, 
much to his surprise, he became the nominee of the Democracy of the State for the 
Governorship of Indiana. It was in this campaign that his opponents made sport 
of his homespun clothes and plain appearance, and obtained for him the sobriquet 
of "Blue Jeans." It was one of the most remarkable campaigns of this most re- 
markable country, and is comparable to the "Tippecanoe and Tyler too," and the 
Lincoln-Douglas elections. Mr. Williams was elected by more than five thousand 
votes over Gen. Benjamin Harrison, afterward President of the United States, and 
served four years. He has been dead several years. 

James A. Arthur. To speak of the Goshen of a quarter of a century ago as 
compared with the Goshen of to-day, is, on the one hand, referring to a thrifty 
agricultural hamlet, and on the other to a prosperous manufacturing city ranking 
second to none of its size iu the entire Union. Substantial brick structures are 
rapidly taking the place of tumble-down wooden blocks, factories have been and are 
being built, manufactories are induced to locate within its borders, metropolitan airs 
are justly assumed, and the year 1892 finds the city upon the full tide of prosper- 
ity. The character of a locality is determined by the conduct of its inhabitants, and 
Goshen, Ind., is noted for its enterprising, intelligent and law-al)iding citizens. 
This prosperous condition of affairs is not alone attributable to the old time- 
honored people; far from it. The younger men, more active in their business 
callings, have been untiring for the city's weal, and by reason of their push and 
enterprise the city has a national reputation. Prominent among this latter class is 
James A. Arthur, whose name forms the subject for this sketch. A native of Prince 
Edward's Island, his birth occurred January 7, 1851, being one in a family of eight 
children, six of whom are yet living. The parents, John and Rachel (Wolner) Arthur, 
were natives of Prince Edward's Island and Ipswich, England, respectively. In 
1859 the family immigrated to the United States, locating first at Niles, Mich., but 
removing to Goshen, Ind., in 1861, where the father embarked in mercantile piu'- 
suits and keeping a hotel. In 1871 he moved to Illinois where he engaged iu farm- 
ing, continuing that avocation until his death at Kankakee, July 7, 1885. Mr. Arthur 
was of a thrifty nature and had accumulated, at different times, considerable money, 
but this was all swept away by endorsing friends' papers. He died as he lived — an 
honest, deserving and respected man — his widow yet surviving him, residing in 
Chicago. James A. Arthur is the only living representative of his father's family, 
now in Elkhart county. Receiving but a common school education, he commenced 
the battle of life upon his own responsibility, at the age of sixteen, without a 
dollar to call his own. During early manhood he began buying and selling pumps, 
but in 1871 began traveling for Walworth, Twohig & Furse, large dealers, at Chicago, 
in pumps and plumbers' supplies. This position he resigned in 1873 to take charge 



478 PICTORIAL JJN^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

of the sales department of the Goshen Pump Company, with whom he continued for 
a period of seven years. In January, 1S80, in company with Alfred Lowry and John 
Korrady, Jr., he established the " I X L Pump Company," which was shortly after- 
ward merged into the ''I X L Pump, Lumber & Manufacturing Companj'," 
incorporated with §22,200 capital, and of which Mr. Lowry was made president 
and Mr. Arthur secretary and treasurer. In 1885 Mr. Korrady sold his interest to 
the two other partners who have ever since continued the business. "Keeping ever- 
lastingly to it brings success " is the motto of this corporation, and if ever a motto was 
religiously adhered to it has been in this case. The legitimate result is success in 
the fullest sense of the word. The proprietors planned to do $10,000 worth of busi- 
ness the tirst year; much to their gratification the amount reached 8-15,000. Not only 
this, but ever}' year has shown a steady increase over the preceding one until at 
present they 'give employment to an average of seventy-live men and transact from 
$145,000 to 8150,000 worth of trade annually. To the untiring devotion of Messrs. 
Arthur and Lowry to their business is attributed the success of one of the most sub- 
stantial and widely known firms of Goshen. Mr. Arthur is also president of the 
Goshen Pump Company, the oldest and largest manufactory of wood pumps in the 
United States, being established in 1854 and the first company to put wood pumps 
on the market as an article of merchandise. He is president of the Goshen Colosseum 
Company, which built and owns the building now occupied by the G. A. R. He is also 
vice-president of the Whitaker Carriage & Manufacturing Company, which was 
established in 1861; is secretary and treasurer of The Indiana Novelt_v Company 
and The Wood Pump Manufacturing Association of the United States. While Mr. 
Arthur works almost night and day for the success of the I X L, he has not been 
able to keep free from local, social and public duties. A Democrat in politics and a 
hard worker in his party's behalf, he has, for ten years, been a member of the County 
Central Committee of the county ; is the present president of the Thomas A. Hendricks 
Club; is a member of the K. of P. and R. A. fraternities, in which he has "passed 
all the chairs " ; took an active part in the organization of the Pottawattomie Club 
and was elected its first president, and is still a director. He is now president of 
the Goshen City School Board and a member of the County School Board; is a 
director in the Goshen Commercial Exchange and the Goshen Lecture Association, 
and in addition to the above superintends a large farm at Dailey, Mich. The 
important event in the life of Mr. Arthur, next to that of his birth, occurred 
November 26, 1874. At that time Miss Amelia Smith, of Edwardsburg, Mich., 
became his wife. One daughter, Luella M., aged fifteen years, is the fruit of this 
union. Unquestionably Mr. Arthur is one of Goshen's foremost citizens, and every- 
body calls him "'Jim." 

William Hass. It can not be expected, in a work of this kind, where but brief 
biographical sketches of prominent citizens of the county are given, that we 
can do justice to this much esteemed and honored citizen, and yet he has been 
identified with the county so long, and his name is so familiar to all, that it is only 
just to dwell upon his career, not as empty words of praise, but as the plain state- 
ment of a still plainer truth. Mr. Hass now makes his home in York township, 
Elkhart county, Ind., but had his nativity in the east, being born in NorthumVier- 
laud county, Penn., December 27, 1816. His parents, John and Catherine (Mayer) 
Hass. were natives of the Keystone State, born in what is now Snyder county. The 
natural advantages of the Western States attracted the attention of John Hass at an 
early date, and in the year 1842 he came to Michigan, locating in St. Joseph, where 
he made a permanent home. His death occurred on May 10, 1846, at Franklin, 
Penn., whither he had gone on a visit. Mrs. Hass died in St. Joseph, Mich., on 
March 4, 1846. The original of this notice was reared on his father's farm in the 
Keystone State, and after the latter moved to Michigan young Hass took charge 
of the farm in Pennsylvania. He was married in that State on November 17, 1842, 
to Miss Rachel Bennage, daughter of George Bennage, and in 1846 the fertile 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIASA. 478 

prairies of the West tempted him also to move toward the setting sun. He and wife 
started with the father of our subject, who died on the way, as before mentioned. 
Mr. Hass settled on his father's place in Michigan, resided there until the spring of 
1865, and then came to the Hoosier State. He located upon his present farm in 
York township, and here reared their children, three in number, viz.: Samuel B., 
born August 13, 1843, enlisted in the Union army in 1861, was taken sick and died 
at Chattanooga on April 5, 1864; John H., born November 15, 1845, enlisted in the 
army, served until the close, his death occurred on November 7, 1890; George B. , 
born August 23, 1848, also a brave and faithful soldier during the war and 
served until the close. He is now a resident of the Wolverine State, Branch county. 
The mother of these children passed away on September 10, 1848, and Mr. Hass 
selected his second wife in the person of Miss Rebecca F. Gray, their union being 
celebrated on September 23, 1849. Mrs. Hass was born May 25, 1830, and was the 
daughter of Daniel and Isabel ( Murray) Gray, natives of Pennsylvania, the father 
dying in Michigan, November 7, 1872, and the mother in her native State on 
August 11, 1842. Mr. Hass' last union resulted in the birth of these children: 
Sarah E., Harris M. , Daniel S., Aimer C, Katie A., Lucy B. and William H., the 
last four deceased. Mr. Hass has thirty-nine acres of land, and although his farm 
is small, he has it so well cultivated that he raises almost as much as some of his 
neighbors who have much larger farms. He has now reached the advanced age of 
seventy-live years, and although he has nearly lost his eyesight, being able to see out 
of but one eye, he enjoys compai atively good health. He is a Republican in his polit- 
ical affiliations, and he and Mrs. Hass are worthy members of the Christian Church. 
Charles B. Aldebmas (deceased). Among those whose names are inseparably 
connected with the prosperity of Goshen, lud. . is he whose name forms the subject 
for this sketch. A native of the State of Vermont, his birth occurred at Greenville 
on November 16, 1828, being a son of Bidwell and Vesta (Smith) Alderman. Bid- 
well Alderman dying just prior to the birth of Charles B., his widow married the 
father of Gen. Milo S. Hascall, who is so well and favorably known throughout 
northern Indiana. The early youth of Charles B. Alderman was passed in attending 
the district schools and working on a farm, but at sixteen years of age he began 
clerking in a store. By reason of failing eyesight he was compelled to return to agri- 
cultural |iursuits, but two years later entered a wholesale grocery store. September 
10, 1850, Miss Elizabeth McLaren, a lady of Scotch ancestry, became his wife, and 
in 1853 he started westward for the purpose of bettering his circumstances in the 
growing prosperity of the newer country. Locating permanently at Goshen, Ind., 
he became a partner in the mercantile establishment of Hascall, Alderman & 
Brown, but owing to the confining nature of the business, sold his interest, in 1868, 
and the year following embarked in the manufacture of woolen goods with James E, 
Winnegar as a partner. In 1875 he became half owner of the stock of the Goshen 
Gas Works, of which, for many years, he was president. A Democrat in politics, 
Mr. Alderman began his political career by being elected a member of the city coun- 
cil, serving as such two years. He was elected mayor of the city in 1876, and in 
1878 and in 1880 was re-elected, serving three full terms, an honor accorded to no 
other man occupying this position. As an official his career was above reproach. As 
a councilman he was instrumental in disposing of the water works bonds at highly 
satisfactorj' rates, and the good he accomplished was probably the cause of his ele- 
vation and retention to the chair of presiding officer of the city. In July, 1887, he 
purchased the Hotel Hascall and delegated its management to his son, George F. 
Mr. Alderman was a member of the order of Free and Accepted Masons, in which 
he had successively passed from the Blue Lodge to the Chapter, Council and Com- 
mandery. Mr. Alderman was one of the county's best men. He died November 1, 
1887. Mrs. Alderman is the daughter of Finley and Nancy (Albright) McLaren, 
the former being a native of Scotland and coming to this country when only seven 
ears old. He married in western New York, settled there on a farm which he tilled 



480 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

for more than half a century, and there died. Only one child was born to Mr. and 
Mrs. Alderman, George F., who is one of Goshen's progressive young business men. 
He was born June 15, 1852, in Genesee county, N. Y., was reared to manhood 
in Elkhart county and completed his schooling at a military institution in his native 
State. He was manager of the old Violet House, at Goshen, for General Hascall 
for a time, then for three years was cashier of the Sherman House, Chicago. Suc- 
ceeding this he had charge of the Hotel Hascall, at Goshen, one year, was room 
clerk of the Boody House, Toledo, Ohio, one year, and for four years was proprie- 
tor of the Bryan House, at Bryan, Ohio. Since January, 1887, he has been proprietor 
of Hotel Hascall, at Goshen. Mr. Alderman is a Democrat and a member of the 
Knights of Pythias. To his marriage with Miss Augusta E. Noble there has been 
born one child. 

Daniel E. Long. This part of Indiana has proved a mine of wealth to thousands 
of industrious and earnest farmers who have come hither from the East and from 
foreign countries, and by dint of hard work and enterprise have developed the 
resources which nature so liberally provided. Among these is Daniel E. Long, who 
is not only one of the well-known and esteemed citizens of the county, but an hon- 
ored soldier of the war of the Rebellion. He is a native of the Buckeye State, born 
in Knox county, March 20, 1842, and is a son of John and Nancy (Kepler) Long, 
the former a native of Maryland and the latter of Pennsj Ivauia. They were honest, 
upright citizens, and were highly esteemed in whatever part of the country they 
made their home. The father died February 19, 1886, in Yandalia, Mich., and the 
latter a good many years ago in Knox county, Ohio. When six years of age our 
subject came to Elkhart county, Ind., whither his father had moved the year previous, 
1848, and received a good practical education in the schools of the county, and also 
became thoroughly conversant with pretty much all kinds of farm labor. Pluck, 
energy, and an indomitable will, characterized his boyhood and have been a part of 
his after life. When twenty years of age young Long enlisted in Comjiany I, 
Eighty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Regiment, and served faithfully and bravely in 
defense of the stars and stripes until honorably discharged on June 15, 1865. He 
was in all the engagements iu which his regiment participated, the most prominent 
being: Perryville, Stone River, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, with Sherman from 
Chattanooga to Atlanta, and in the march to the sea. Mr. Long was wounded at 
Bentonville, N. C, March 19, 1865, and was disabled from further service. He was 
ever to the front, and no l)raver or truer soldier ever trod the red sod of a battle- 
field. After being wounded he was taken to the hospital at Goldsboro, N. C, and 
later still to David's Island, N. Y., whence he was brought iu the hospital ship, 
"Northern Light." When able to leave he was sent to Madison, Ind., and there 
received his discharge. Mr. Long selected his wife in the person of Miss Catherine 
C. Hass, and their nuptials were celebrated December 15, 1868. She was born at 
Mottville, Mich., and is the daughter of Charles and Sabie (Housel) Hass, both 
natives of that grand old State, Pennsylvania, bul both now deceased, the father 
dying in Feljruary. 1877, and the mother in 1859. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Long 
has been blessed by the birth of four children, as follows: Becca W. (deceased), 
Jennie, Everett and Maggie. Mr. Long is the owner of 188 acres of land, all 
improved except about thirty acres of timber. He has a good comfortable house, a 
substantial barn, windmill, and other general improvements. He has not escaped 
holding ofiSce. and has discharged the duties incumbent upon the office of justice of 
the peace for four years In politics he is an earnest advocate of the platform of the 
Republican party, and socially he is a member of the G. A. R. After marriage he 
resided for two years in Iowa, six years in Michigan, and in 1877 he located in this 
county on rented land for one year. He then bought eighty acres, where he now 
lives and added to this from time to time until he now owns one of the best farms in 
his section. He is thoroughgoing and progressive, and has prospered in all his 
enterprises. 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIAXA. 481 

F. V. B. MiNNicH. It matters little what vocation a man selects as his life occu- 
pation so long as it is an honorable one. If he is an honest, upright man, courteous 
in his intercourse with his fellow-men and possessed of the average amount of 
energy and business sagacity, he is bound to make his business a financial success. 
Because the subject of this sketch is the possessor of all the above requirements, is 
the chief reason that he has succeeded; because he is far above the average in point 
of natural business qualifications, is the reason he to-day stands among the best and 
most prosperous merchants of Goshen. A brief sketch of Mr. Minnich is here ap- 
propriately given: A native of Stark coiinty, Ohio, bis birth occurred in the village 
of Osnaburg, July 9, 1841, and was one in a family of six children, four yet living, 
born to the marriage of Michael Minnich and Catherine Sleybaugh. The father 
was a blacksmith by trade, and that, in conjunction with farming, was his occupation 
through life. He moved with his wife to Indiana in 1865, their children having pre- 
ceded them, and settling on a farm west of Goshen about four miles, resided there 
until their respective deaths in 1868 and 1874, having been members of the Lutheran 
Church. Michael Minnich was a Democrat of the Stephen A. Douglas school, a 
hard-working, industrious man, a strict believer in the rule of attending to his own 
business and not meddling with that of others, and one who enjoyed the respect of 
those who knew him. F. V. B. Minnich was reared in his native State, secured a fair, 
practical education from the common schools and when seventeen years old began 
clerking in a hardware store at Canton, where he remained four years. Then coming 
to Indiana he became manager of the jobbing department of a wholesale hardware 
store at Fort Wayne, but in January, 1865, came to Goshen and until the fall of 
that year clerked for Messrs. Lawrence & Noble. In partnership with his brother, 
John M., he embarked in merchandising at Princeton, but in January, 1872, pur- 
chased his brother's interest and continued the business alone until the spring of 
1880. Returning to Goshen the fall of that year he opened a stock of hardware a 
few doors north of his present location, but the summer of 1882 built the brick 
block he now occupies, and has ever since conducted the leading hardware trade of 
Goshen. Originally the stock consisted of about §6,000 worth of hardware exclu- 
sively, but now upstairs, main floor and basement are filled with a carefully selected 
stock of general hardware and furniture amounting to nearly $25,000, and the 
average annual sales amount to about §75,000. Practically speaking Mr. Min- 
nich has passed his entire life in the hardware trade, and knowing the wants of hia 
customers and having vast advantages over many competitors in buying a first class 
quality of goods on a cash basis, he has made his business a decided success. Since 
becoming a resident of Goshen he has identified himself with its material welfare 
and contributes much to the prosperity of the place. He is a Republican, has 
served as city councilman, where he was active in securing more and better side- 
walks, and he and his family are identified with the Presbyterian Church. To his 
marriage with Lucy A. Miller, solemnized May 26, 1866, four children have been born: 
C. Lizzie, Jessie G., Charmcey F., and Eva L. 

John A. Smith. Elkhart county, Ind., is an Eden of fine farms and agri- 
cultural tracts. There are comparatively few very small tracts and each farmer 
tries to outdo his neighbor in the cultivation and improvement of his land. Of 
the many fine, attractive places none are more conspicuous than that belong- 
ing to our subject and located in York township. He has 286 acres of land 
practically all under a high state of cultivation, and twenty- four acres of tim- 
ber. He also has thirty acres of fine pasture and his buildings, fences, etc., 
indicate to the beholder that a thorough and experienced hand is at the helm. Mr. 
Smith claims Pennsylvania as his native State and was born in York count)' on the 
29th of June, 1832, to the marriage of John and Margaret (Pentz) Smith, both 
natives of Pennsylvania. They were of Dutch and German descent respectively, 
and remained residents of their native State until the fall of 1855, when they moved 
to Michigan and settled in St. Joseph county. There they resided until the death 



483 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of the mother in 1864, the father following her to the grave in less than a year after- 
ward. The youthful days of John A. Smith were passed in the Keystone State, and 
he received such educational advantages as the schools of those days afforded. 
With the ardor and energy of youth he started out to make his own way in life, and 
in the fall of 1851 went to Virginia and settled near Winchester, where he resided 
until the winter of 1852-1853. Returning to Pennsylvania for a short visit, he 
then decided to move to Michigan, and after reaching that State, settled in St. 
Joseph county, where he made his home uutil the spring of 1866. He then came to 
Indiana antl settled on his present farm. Mr. Smith was married in 1854 to Miss 
Elizabeth Burns, who died in 1855. To this marriage was born, in 1855, a daughter, 
Mary A., who died at the age of eleven years. He was mari'ied in the fall of 1858, 
in St. Joseph county, Mich., to Miss Emeline Sbelleuberger, daughter of Tobias and 
Catherine (Hassinger) Shellenberger, natives of Pennsylvania. Both are now 
deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith were born the following children: Andrew J., 
Alice E., Phoebe J., James P. and Sarah A. By appointment Mr. Smith held the ofiice 
of commissioner on drainage for two years, but resigned to enter upon the duties of 
county commissioner to which he was elected in 1882 for a term of three years. He 
has shown his appreciation of secret organizations by becoming a member of the A. F. 
& A. M. and the I. O. O. F. , being a R. A. M. in the former. Politically he is a 
strong advocate of the principles of the Democratic party and gives it his hearty 
support. Farming is not his chief calling in life for he is a skillful mechanic and 
at present is engaged in building bridges, moving liuildings, etc. He moved on the 
farm to rear his family. His eldest son, Andrew J., resides at Hobart, Ind., where 
he is principal of the schools. In addition he publishes the Hobart Gazette, an 
Independent newspaper. James P., another son, resides in Lake, Ind., and is 
principal of the schools at that place. Alice E. married Jacob Madlen, and resides 
at Goshen, this county. Phcebe J. married Thomas J. Jaekson who is superin- 
tendent of schools at Constantine, Mich. Sarah A. resides at home. 

George W. Rich. The poet, the author and the artist who have attained distinc- 
tion in their respective callings and won the plaudits of the world, have usually 
obtained renown by representing soine simple occurrence from the ordinary events 
of life. The "Angelus," representing two Russian peasants in the attitude of 
prayer upon hearing the vesper bell, won for the painter both fame and fortune; 
Powers, the sculptor, is remembered by generations for having faithfully represented 
in marble the perfect figure of a Greek female slave; Washington Irving' s master- 
piece was his quaint, legendary story of Rip Van Winkle, which all school children 
have probably read, and which, reproduced in drama by Joseph Jefferson, obtained 
for that actor rank and wealth. Such well-known writers as Will Carleton, James 
Whitcomb Riley, Mary N. Murfree, and hundreds of others are delineators of char- 
acters selected from the walks of every-day life. Could the true history be told of 
many individuals who have gone to their graves uncommemorated by brush or pen, 
a history would be brought to light of such pathos and heroism that would make the 
deeds of kings and princes dwarf into insignificance in comparison. The life of the 
poor man, struggling with adversities in order to secure the necessities of life for his 
family, practicing self-denial in order that loved ones might reap a benefit, never 
yielding or faltering until the final summons is received, is a history that, if correctly 
and graphically told, would touch the heart strings of the nation and cause to be 
erected in the minds of all a monument more enduring than marble. Such, in brief, 
is the history of John S. Rich, father of the subject of this sketch. A native of the 
State of New York, he was reared to farm life, married Alzina Willard of the same 
State, afterward moving to Pennsylvania and in 1844 immigrated westward with his 
family for the purpose of bettering his surroundings. The family at this time con- 
sisted of the husband, wife and two children, and their possessions in worldly goods 
comprised a span of horses, wagor and a ver}' few household goods. Upon arriving 
at Elkhart, Ind., Mr. Rich spent three cents, all the money he had, to buy feed. 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIASA. 483 

The fall and winter of that year he lived near a brother bet\Yeen Mishawaka and 
South Bend. During this time he found a piece of land suitable to his means, con- 
sisting of forty acres and located in Osolo township. Elkhart count}'. A log cabin 
stood on the place, but the owner in abandoning the property had carried away with 
him the doors, floors, windows and all portable articles, leaving only the log 
skeleton. For this property he gave one of his horses, the harness and the wagon. 
The remaining horse was traded for a yoke of oxen. Not having any means with 
which to buy seed or provisions, Mr. Rich would work around at first, receiving forty 
cents a day, while Mrs. Eich would spin and weave. Both were frugal and saving 
and no work was too hard to do if there was a recompense in the end. The accumu- 
lation of property was necessarily slow, but sure. Mr. Eich passed his whole life in 
hard work. Being honest himself, he likewise believed in the honesty of others and 
because of this sometimes suffered by trickery. This couple was among the better class 
of Elkhart county's settlers. Mrs. Eich died February 8, 1884, aged sixty-six years, 
and on April 16, 1892, Mr. Eich died at the age of seventy-eight years. The three chil- 
dren born to their marriage are all living. George ^Y. Eich was born in Erie county, 
Penn., August 28, 1842, was reared to hard work at farming in Indiana, and his 
total schooling consisted of three terms' attendance of three months each. August 
10, 1862, he enlisted at Elkhart. lud., in Company G, Seventy-Fourth Eegiment 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving until January 25, 1865, when he was honorably 
discharged on accoimt of close of war. A history of Mr. Eich' s military career is 
briefly this: Eendezvoused at Fort Wayne; in camp of instruction at Indianapolis; 
went to Louisville and became a part of Buell's army that confronted Bragg; fought 
at Perry ville; was at Crab Orchard and Bowling Green; joined Eosecrauz' com- 
mand and went to Nashville, but was on detached service in pursuit of Morgan dur- 
ing the Stone Eiver campaign; returned to Nashville after the battle of Stone Eiver 
in time to participate in all the movements of his regiment, which culminated in the 
battle of Chickamaaga. Later he was one of the garrison at Chattanooga that suf- 
fered from hunger before being relieved; participated in the battle of Missionary 
Ridge; was in all the movements of the Atlanta campaign, the march to the sea and 
up through the Caroliuas and ending with the Grand Eeview at Washington. 
Returning home, Mr. Eich and brother turned all their energies to farming and by 
years of hard work succeeded in accumulating considerable lands and means. 
During this time he taught school winters, was elected and served two terms as 
township trustee, was chosen township assessor, but in 1880 he was elected county 
treasurer. He was re-elected to this position, serving two complete terms. Since 
then Mr. Eich has resided in Goshen and is the present secretary of the Ex- Soldiers' 
Life Insurance Company and treasurer of a building and loan association. He is a 
member of the K. of P.. is the present commander of the G. A. E. post at Goshen, 
is a Republican and he and wife are Methodists. For his life helpmate Mr. Rich 
selected Emma, daughter of Morris Dills, by whom he is the father of one daughter, 
Elma. 

Hon. Isaac P. Gray, prominent in State and national politics, was born October 
18, 1828. in Chester county, Penn., and is a son of John and Hannah (Worthington) 
Gray. His ancestors were members of the Society of Friends, or more commonly 
known as Quakers, his great-grandfather coming with William Penu from England. 
Receiving but a common-school education in youth, he embarked in mercantile pur- 
suits at New Madison, Ohio, removed to Union City, Ind., in 1855, where he con- 
tinued merchandising, but later began the practice of law, having previously quali- 
fied himself for that profession. During the war of secession, he commanded the 
Fourth Indiana Cavalry for a time, but ill health necessitated his withdrawal from 
an active military career, and returning home he helped recruit the One Hundred 
and Forty-seventh Indiana Infantry. Until the organization of the Republican 
party, Col. Gray was a Whig. As a Republican he was defeated for Congress in 
1866, but two years later was elected to the State Senate, where he served four years. 



484 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

In 1870 he was appointed minister to the Island of St. Thomas, West Indies, but 
declined the honor. In 1871 his political views underwent a change, and since that 
time he has been an active Democrat. He was nominated by acclamation and elected 
lieutenant governor in 1876, and upon the death of James D. Williams, became gov- 
ernor of the State. As the candidate of the Democratic party in 1884, he was nomi- 
nated for governor of the State by acclamation on the first ballot, and upon election 
gave it an excellent administration. For the past two presidential terms he has been 
prominently mentioned as a candidate for either the first or second place on the 
Democratic presidential ticket, but the uncertain game of politics has decided in 
each instance in favor of others. Gov. Gray is a man of unquestioned ability and 
of unbounded ambition. He married Miss Eliza Jaqua in 1850, and (o this union 
there are two living children. Mr. Gray is now minister plenipotentiary and envoy 
extraordinary to Mexico, having been appointed to that high ofBce by President 
Cleveland. 

Edward P. Eockwell. A lifetime of hard, earnest endeavor in pursuing the 
occupation to which he now gives his attention, coupled with strict integrity, honesty 
of purpose and liberality in all directions, has resulted in placing Mr. Rockwell 
among the truly respected and honored agriculturists of the countj'. His small farm 
of sixty-nine acres, seven of which are timber, is one of the most productive in the 
county, and is conducted in a thorough and scientific manner. Mr. Rockwell was born 
in St. Joseph county, Ind., April 12, 18-14, and is the son of Willard and Ann (Van 
Winkle) Rockwell, both natives of the Empire State. When a young man Willard 
Rockwell came westward to Ohio, was married in that State to Miss Van Winkle, 
and in the latter part of 1843 settled in St. Joseph county, Ind., where be made a 
permanent settlement. In 1862 he was filled with a patriotic desire to fight for the 
old flag, and enlisted in Company G, Forty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He 
was detailed as nurse, and died from overwork in the hospital at Paducah, Ky. , in 
1862. His wife died several years afterward in St. Joseph county, Ind. They were 
the parents of the following children: Eri, eolisted in Company F, Fifteenth Indi- 
ana Volunteer Infantry, and served three years, dying with typhoid fever during 
service; he was in many battles, but never received a wound; Marcia;Aurelia; Louisa; 
Etta; all living but the eldest. Edward P. Rockwell was reared on the homestead 
in St. Joseph county, Ind. , received his education there, and was there married on 
March 25, 1873, to Miss Malissa Shearer, daughter of George and Mary (Glass) 
Shearer, natives of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Shearer, settled in St. Joseph county, Ind., 
at an early date, and there passed the closing scenes of their lives. Mr. Rockwell has 
all but about seven acres of his farm under a high state of cultivation, and is one of 
the most successful small farmers of the community. All his operations are con- 
ducted in a manner showing great thoroughness and good judgment, and substantial 
results have been reaped. He and wife are members of the Methodist Church, and 
he is a member of the Patrons of Industry. In politics he supports the principles 
of the Republican party. 

Elliott Crull. When the books are balanced, when all accounts are finally 
adjusted, figuratively speaking, there will be a larger credit balance opposite the 
name of the gentleman who is the subject of this sketch than is usually placed to 
the credit of the average of mankind. While a man of no great wealth, he is the 
possessor of that which is far more valuable — an honorable name and the confi- 
dence and friendship of those who know him best. Beginning life's battle at the 
lowest round of the ladder, he has, by sheer force of character, fought to the front 
and is justly recognized as one of the foremost citizens of Elkhart county. Just 
across the line of this county, near Mishawaka, his birth occurred on May 22, 1858. 
When yet a mere boj' his parents removed to Baugo township, Elkhart county, where 
he grew to manhood. From his earliest recollection Mr. Crull' s life has been one 
of hard work and self-denial. His advantages for an education were of so meager 
a character that he was only enabled to master the common branches. At about 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 485 

thirteen years of age he started out in life for himself, and for a number of years 
worked out by the day and month, and at such occupation as would afford him the 
most remuneration. About 187S he went to Elkhart, where he first found employ- 
ment on the coal dock, but later Ijecame local baggage agent of the Lake Shore & 
Michigan Southern Railway. Still later he became agent at Elkhart for the 
United States Express Company, which he resigned in order to become city marshal. 
By this time he had attracted many friends because of his manliness and honesty, 
and these friends were among the best class of people. He served four years as 
city marshal, and in 1890, as the candidate of the Republican party, was nomi- 
nated for and elected sheriff of the county. No one occupying this office ever gave 
better satisfaction than did Sheriff Crull in his first term. His services have been 
duly recognized by his party, and in 1892 he was nominated for a second term and 
was re-elected to succeed himself. Socially Mr. Crull is a member of the Knights 
of Pythias, Odd Fellows' and Red Men's fraternities. June 1, 1882, occurred his 
marriage with Miss Alcetta Fink, by whom he is the father of one son, Norris E. 

George Folk has been a resident of St. Joseph county,Ind., for the past twenty- 
eight years, during which time he has identified himself with the interests of his 
section, has won numerous friends and has built up a reputation for honesty and 
fair dealing that is in every way merited. His birth occurred in Stark county, 
Ohio, September 7, 1832, but his parents, Abraham and Barbara (Nunnemaker) 
Folk, were Pennsylvanians. The father was one of the pioneers of Ohio, became 
the owner of Woodland farm, which he greatly improved and on which he died in 
1866, at the advanced age of eighty-threeyears. Prior to the war he was a Democrat, 
but afterward identified himself with the Republican part}', and was always noted for 
his public spirit. He acquired a good property and was liberal in the use of his 
means toward deserving enterprises, being especially liberal in the support of the 
Lutheran Church, of which he was a member. His father, George Folk, lived 
and died in Pennsylvania. Some of the early members of the family were in the 
War of 1812. The paternal grandfather. Caleb Nunnemaker, was a native of 
Pennsylvania, but his father came from Germany. The parents of the subject of 
this sketch were married in Pennsylvania, but the mother died in Ohio in 1868, 
having reared a family of five children: Mary, Elizabeth, Susan. Louisa and 
George; Elizabeth, Mary and George being the only survivors, Louisa dying in 
Ohio when single. Susan married Andrew Sell. He and one child survive her. 
The paternal and maternal grandparents experienced the hardships of pioneer life 
in early Ohio, but in time became well-to-do people. George Folk attended the 
common schools when a youth, but owing to the poor facilities at that time his 
education was not of the best. He was compelled to make his own way in the 
world, and when still in his teens set about doing so. In 1852 he was married to 
Miss Lydia Clark, who was born in Ohio October 17, 1832, a daughter of B. and 
Mary (Shidler) Clark, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania, and died in 
Ohio in 1891, at the age of eighty-three years. He was a well-to do man, a repub- 
lican politically, and an earnest member of the Lutheran Church. His widow sur- 
vives him, is a native of Ohio, and a resident of Louisville. She is now eighty- 
two years old. Her children are as follows: Lydia, Malinda, Rebecca, George, 
Lovina, Ozias, Adam, Mary A., Celist, Tillman and Angalina. Mrs. Folk was 
twenty-one at the time of her marriage and has borne the following children: Lu- 
cinda, wife of George Brown, of South Bend, has four children: Lovina is un- 
married and is a resident of California; Fiana married Daniel Stroup, and she and 
one child survive him; Lydia married Elmer Wylls, is residing in South Bend and 
has four children; Rebecca is single and is living in California; Matilda married 
Michael Trump, resides in Union township, this county, and has four children; 
Mary E. married William Mangus and lives in Kausas; George N resides at home 
and is married to Laura Barrett; and Clara who is attending school in South Bend, 
Two children died in infancy, Edwin and Barney. The only son is a wide-awake 



486 PICTORIAL AJS'D BIOGRAPHICAL 

and enterprisiDg young man. In 1864 Mr. Folk purchased a partly improved farm 
and is now the owner of 220 acres of laud, all of which is in one body and is as fine 
farming laud as can be found in St. Joseph county. He has held some of the most 
important offices of the township, and as he has always manifested the greatpst in- 
terest in the welfare of his section he has many friends. What he has accumu 
lated iu the way of worldly goods has been the result of his own earnest efforts, and 
he has a very nicely improved farm. He has been a successful raiser of stock, 
and in his methods of conducting his farm is jjrogressive and enterprising. He 
and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church, and politically he has always 
supported the men and measures of the Republican party, but as for himself he has 
never been an aspirant for office. 

Franklin Gr. Romaine, who has so efficiently and ably officiated as treasurer of 
Elkhart county during the past four years, is a native of the city of New York. 
Ralph Romaiiie was the name of his great graudfather, as it was also that of his grand- 
father. The former was a native of Holland, where the name was spelled Komyne, 
and was the progenitor of the family in America. On coming to this country he resided 
near Paterson, N. J., many years, and became plantation and slave owner. His 
son, named Ralph iu his honor, was a man of superior education, obtained a favor- 
able reputation in literary circles, and for many years plied his vocation of school- 
teaching in the city of New York. There Theodore Romaine, the father of Frank- 
lin Gr. , was born, reared, educated, taught school and married Cornelia Kane. 
Declining health caused his removal West in 1801. but instead of receiving the 
hoped-for benefit, he grew steadily worse, and died the following year at Bristol, 
Ind. , where his widow continues to reside. They were the parents of six children, 
all of whom grew to mature years and are yet living. Franklin G. Romaiue was 
born August 20, 1848, receiving his youthful training and schooling in his native 
city. Upon the removal of the family to this country, when he was thirteen years 
old, he completed his education at Bristol, and when eighteen years old started out 
in life for himself as clerk in a hardware store. This he continued three years at 
Bristol and the succeeding three years was engaged in a like occupation at Coustan- 
tine, Mich. The next three years were passed in clerking at Elkhart, but in 1876 
he returned to Bristol, where, for thirteen years, he carried on a safe and reasonably 
lucrative business in merchandising. Mr. Romaine has always been a believer in 
the policies advocated by the Republican party, and has ever been ready to advance 
its cause in any reasonable and legitimate manner. He began his political career 
as clerk of the corporation of Bristol, serving three successive terms, and has served 
Washington township four elective terms as trustee. In 1888, as the candidate of his 
party for the office of treasurer of the county, he was elected by a larger majority 
than is usually given a candidate. His occupancy of this office was both capable 
and satisfactory; so much so, in fact, that he was given the customarj' re-nomination 
in 189l>, which resulted in his re-election. Mr. Romaine is singularly quiet and 
unobtrusive for a man who has so long been before the public. This does not seem 
to affect his popularity in the least, however, for but few men in the county command 
more or warmer friends than does Franklin G. Romaine. Socially he belongs to the 
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having attained to the encampment of that 
order, and he and family are of the Episcopal faith in religious belief. To his 
marriage with Miss Mary A. Salisbury, solemnized May 25, 1871, six children have 
been born, as follows: Florence M. , Theodore K.. Benjamin F. (died when nine 
years old). Anna, Mary A. and Bertha. 

Hon. Albert G. Porter was unquestionably one of the ablest and most popular 
of Indiana's governors; and aside from this is a fine lawyer, a polished gentleman 
and a worthy neighbor. His j'outhful years were passed in and adjacent to Law- 
renceburg, Ind.. where, for a number of years, he attended the ferry across the Ohio 
River, which was on the direct route of travel between Indiana and Kentucky. 
Manual labor of the hardest kind thus fell to his lot when a boy, as did also the 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIASA. 487 

full management and charge of the ferry; and thus, in youth, he had thrust upon 
him by practical illustration the lessons of industry and self-reliance. At the earliest 
opportunity he took his small savings and entered the preparatory department of 
Hanover College, remaining until his means were exhausted. He then expected to 
return to the ferry, as his father was unable to assist him: but an uncle who had 
heard of his determination to secure an education, provided the necessary means 
and sent him to Asbury College, at Greeneastle. Graduating in 1843, he studied 
law until 1846, then moved to Indianapolis, where he embarked upon the practice 
of his chosen profession and where he has long held a front rank at the Indiana 
bar. In 1853, h)' the Governor's appointment, he became reporter of the State 
Supreme Court to till a vacanc}', and the succeeding year was elected to this position. 
Up to this time he was a Democrat, although much opposed to the repeal of the 
Missouri Compromise. The action of the slave States in forcing their doctrines in 
the new States and Territories, together with their evident purpose of carrying 
the election in those localities bj' force and fraud, and the endorsement given to this 
by the Democratic party forced Mi'. Porter out of their ranks and into those of the 
Eepublicans. In 1856 he voted with this new party, and two years later, although 
not a candidate, was nominated and elected to Congress, and re-elected two years 
later. Voluntarily quitting Congress for the more remunerative (to him) practice of 
law, he confined his attention to legal pursuits, until upon the solicitation of Secre- 
tary of the Treasury (now United States senator) Sherman he became comptroller of 
treasury. In 1880 he was nominated by his party for governor, and upon being 
elected served as such four years. After that time he confined his attention, largely, 
to legal and literary pursuits until, under President Harrison's administration, he 
became minister to Italy. He resigned that office after the election of President 
Cleveland. 

Jesse E. High. The gentleman of whom we write owns a fine farm in Cleve- 
land township, Elkhart Co., Ind., and his estate shows every indication of order 
and thrift. He is an Ohioan by birth and education, born in Miama county. Septem- 
ber 15, 1820, and his parents, Jacob and Sarah (Nicholas) High, were natives 
respectively of Virginia and Pennsylvania. The elder High settled in Miami county, 
Ohio, about the year 1814. after his return from the War of 1812, in which he served 
as a private, and he was one of the pioneers of that region, making his home there 
until 1840 when he and his family came to Elkhart county, Ind. He purchased a 
farm on first coming here, but for two years lived on a rented farm in Cleveland 
township. The land he had purchased consisted of 200 acres all covered with tim- 
ber, and it took man\- years of hard labor and great industry to clear and develop 
it. To his marriage were born the following children: James, Jesse E., Andrew, 
Eli, Samuel, Catherine, Sarah and Julia, all now living with the exception of James 
and Sarah. On this farm Jesse High erected a frame house, 18x26 feet, in 1840, 
and resides on this at the present time. Mr. and Mrs. J. High passed the remain- 
der of their days on this tract, the mother dying August 10, 1862, and the father 
February 28, 1872. They were honest, upright citizens. Jesse E. High, the second in 
order of birth of the above-mentioned children, was about nineteen years of age when 
he came with his parents to Cleveland township. He had received a rather limited 
education in his native county, attending district school about three months each year, 
and when old enough he learned the carpenter's trade, his first work in that line 
being to construct the barns of many of the early settlers of Elkhart county. He 
was maiTied on March 28, 1844, in St. Joseph. Ind., to Miss Esther Jenkins, a 
native of Miami county, Ohio, born May 28, 1825, and the daughter of Isaachar 
and Esther (Pearson) Jenkins, the former a native of Alabama and the latter of 
South Carolina. Her parents settled in Miami county, Ohio, in 1806, and there 
they resided until 1833, when they removed to St. Joseph county. Ind., and there 
remained for about thirteen years. They afterward disposed of their property and 
removed to Iowa, but only remained a few years. While on a visit to Miami county. 



488 PICTORIAL AND BIOOBAPIIICAL 

Ohio, Mr. Jenkins died in 1851, but his wife lived to be quite aged, dying February 
5, 1872, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. High. At the time of the marriage of 
our subject and wife they settled on the High homestead in Cleveland township, 
about two miles northwest of Elkhart, and there they reside at the present time. 
As the years passed along one child was born to them, Americus V., born June 27, 
1846, who married Miss Mary Oakes, He now resides oq the old homestead and super- 
intends everything connected with it. Our subject has seventy-eight acres of land, 
most of which is improved, and has about four acres of timber. He has a two-story 
brick residence, erected in 1876. and his out-buildings are all substantial and orna- 
mental. In politics he is a Republican. He has one grandchild, Otis O. , whose 
birth occurred on September 25, 1879. 

John Davenport. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch is one of the 
most conspicuous of the old-time merchants of Elkhart, and is one of the few 
remaining pioneers of the county. So intimately interwoven is his history with 
that of Elkhart, that, like the history of the Beardsley's, one can hardly be given 
without giving both. While the history of the old pioneers is commonplace enough, 
yet it is always interesting to the student of nature, because it tells of the struggles 
with adversities, the hardships of pioneer life in the great West, and the pathos 
naturally attending the success or failure to keep the wolf from the door. John 
Davenport is a native of that old historic town of Chillicothe, Ohio, his birth occur- 
ring December 6, 1811. His father was Abraham Davenport, and his mother was 
Penelope Davenport, nee GriUith, both branches of the family being among the 
pioneers of Ross county, Ohio. The characteristic log cabin school-house, furnished 
with slab seats, puncheon floors and greased paper for window lights, together with 
the old-time school master and long birch gad, served John Davenport such youth- 
ful education as he received; and his earlier years were passed in clearing, grubbing, 
making rails, planting, hoeing and reaping with the old-fashioned sickle when not 
otherwise employed. His parents having moved from Ross to Miami county, he 
went to Piqua, when seventeen years old, to learn the potter's trade, but two years 
later was compelled to abandon it because of declining health caused by the chem- 
icals then used. In April, 1832, he married Clarinda Broderick, and four years 
later, with his wife and two children, braved the perils of frontier life and emigrated 
to Indiana. Locating at Elkhart, then a village of about three hundred population, 
he embarked in merchandising within a mouth after his arrival, selling a mixed 
stock of goods suitable to the times and conditions. Here Mrs. Davenport died in 
March, 1840, leaving four children, as follows: Anthony S. (a physician by occupa- 
tion, an active participant in all the movements and engagements of the Forty- 
fourth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry during the Civil war, up to and includ- 
ing the battle of Shiloh, where he was exposed to the inclemency of the weather and 
from the effects of which he died the following August); Clementine (now residing 
in Elkhart, the widow of J. M. Hackathorn); Laura E. (died in September, 1861, 
the wife of John McNorton); and John B., the present recorder of Elkhart county. 
In 1841 Mr. Davenport re married, his second wife being Clementine Broderick, a 
sister of his first wife. This lady died in September, 1891, without issue. From 
1836, for a period of nearly forty years, Mr. Davenport was continuously engaged 
in mercantile pursuits in Elkhart, and during this time both made and lost consid- 
erable monev. For thirty years he has speculated in wool and other products, and 
is considered the best judge of wool in the entire country. In politics he was for- 
merly a Whig, but since 1856 has always affiliated with the Republicans. He was 
a charter member of Pulaski Lodge Independent Order of Odd Fellows, where he 
has ever since retained an active membership. In his declining years Mr. Daven- 
port's chief pleasure is in his family circle, and reviewing a life of over fourscore 
years, in which no one can point to a single discreditable action. 

John B. D.'Ivenpokt, the popular incumbent of the recorder's office of Elkhart 
county, is the youngest in a family of four children, the father being the old pio- 




\!) . yL4,yJi,'^^,40(^^ ' 



MEilOms OF INDIANA. 491 

neer, John Davenport, a biograpby of whom precedes this. He was born August 
27, 1839, in the city of Elkhart, Ind., which yet serves him as a place of residence, 
and which, with but a few years' exception, has always been his home. His educa- 
tion was mostly obtained from the schools of his native city, but he spent nearly one 
year in the State University at Ann Arbor, Mich. AVhen the war between the loyal 
and disloyal States of the Union broke out he was attending that institution, and as 
his elder brother had enlisted in his country's cause, John B. was prevailed upon to 
return home and assist his father in the discharge of a heavy mercantile business 
which he was then conducting. Having thus embarked in merchandising when a 
young man, Mr. Davenport has made that his life's occupation, and steadily fol- 
lowed mercantile pursuits in this city until 1891. In 1890 he was selected as the 
nominee of the Republican party for the office of county recorder, and at the en- 
suing election had a majoritj' of about four hundred votes and nearly three hundred 
votes in Elkhart county more than the State ticket. No one who knows John B. 
Davenport ever considers him anything but a gentleman in every respect. His 
innate dignity and affability make him deservedly popular with the public; and the 
painstaking care with which he discharges the duties of his office, ranks him second 
in value to no recorder ever elected to the office in Elkhart county. In January, 
1868, Miss Charity A., daughter of Dr. David H. and Amanda (Torryj Runjon, 
became his wife, and to their union two children have been born — Richard B. and 
Mary L. Mr. Davenport was in mercantile pursuits and shipping grain while in 
La Grange, from 1875 to 18S0. 

Jacob Wahl (deceased). The sketch which is given below is that of a gentle- 
man who, though passed to his final reward, still lives in the gracious influence that 
emanated from him while on earth. We find no one more worthy of mention or 
whose long life of usefulness is more worthy to be chronicled than this gentleman, 
whose honesty and integrity were proverbial in the community. All his character- 
istics of industry and perseverance were inherited from his German ancestors and 
all his accumulations were the result of manj' years of hard labor. He was a native 
of Germany, born in Wurtemberg, February 7, 1809, and was a son of George and 
Catherine (Kaiffer) Wahl. When twenty-two years of age, Jacob Wahl came to 
America (a sister having come two years previous), and settled in Mahoning county, 
Ohio, where he worked at carpentering, having learned that trade in his native 
country. On August 23, 1838, he was married in Mahoning county to Miss Annie 
King, who was born in Armstrong county, Penn., August 23. 1816. and who was 
the daughter of George and Sarah (Silfoot) King, lx>th natives of the Keystone 
State, where they were reared and married. There the parents passed their entire 
lives, the father dying when Annie was about six years of age, and the mother when 
she was about twelve. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. King, as fol- 
lows: Jonathan, born January 5, 1804; Stena, Elizabeth, Henry, Polly, Annie and 
Phoebe, who was born November 18, 1818. All are now deceased except Jonathan, 
Henrj- and Annie. In 1850 Mr. and Mrs. Wahl removed to Elkhart county, Ind., 
purchased eighty acres of land in Cleveland to-svnship. and there Mrs. Wahl still 
resides. After settling in that township, Mr. Wahl cleared a great deal of land and 
afterward added to the same until he owned a farm of 160 acres. To his marriage 
were born the following children: Catherine. Sophia, Jonathan, Jacob, David, Will- 
iam F., Malinda A. (deceased), and Royal H. (deceased). Mr. Wahl was a member 
of the Evangelical Church for many years and was a liberal contributor to the same. 
He was active in all good work, was public spirited, and was universally respected. 
He was a man whose sterling worth of character was recognized by all and his 
death, which occurred on April 8, 1889, was deeply deplored by a large circle of 
friends and acquaintances, as well as his own immediate and sorrowing household. 
He was a good and kind father, a loving husband, and his memory will remain green 
long after his body has moldered to dust. He was a hard-working and industrious 
man during his entire life, was a careful manager and a man of excellent judgment 



493 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

in business affairs. His aged wife, who now resides on the home place, is also a 
member of the Evangelical Church, and although time has laid his whitening hand 
upon her brow, she is still comparatively active and independent. 

Harry S. Chester, clerk of the courts of Elkhart county, is a native of the State 
of Massachusetts, his birth occurring at Westtield on January 23, 1862. He is one 
of a family of seven children, live of whom are yet living, born to the marriage of 
John B. Chester and Elizabeth E. Ellis, who were natives of Liverpool and London, 
England, respectively. The parents were married in their native country and immi- 
grated to the United States in 1S51, locating in the New England State of Connec- 
ticut, where the father followed his trade of cigar manufacturer. Later the family 
removed to Massachusetts, and from there, in January, ISSO, to Elkhart county. lud., 
locating in the city of Elkhart, where the father yet resides, employed at his trade. 
Mrs. Chester died in September, 1SU2. Although practically a new-comer in Indiana, 
Henry S. Chester, by his superior business qua'itications and his identidcation with 
the material welfare and progress of Elkhart county, is justly recognized as one of 
its foremost citizens. It does not necessarily follow that because the boy received 
but little scholastic advantages, the man must necessarily be uneducated. Although 
Mr. Chester never attended school after thirteen years of age, he nevertheless pos- 
sesses a polished education, acquired by exhaustive study and reading when his 
school davs were a thing of the past. When nineteen years old he followed his 
parents to the Hoosier State and has since made his home in Elkhart. Having 
learned cigar-making of his father, he followed that occupation until 18S4, when he 
became a studeut of Blackstone in the law office of Capt. Henry C. Dodge, with 
whom he remained nearly three years. In ISSti he began his political career as the 
Democratic candidate for the office of city clerk of Elkhart, and to this he was elected 
by a majority of eighteen ballots. Two years later he was re-elected to this posi- 
tion, increasing his previous majority to 736 votes. This remarkable proof of 
approval, on the part of the public, gained for him, in 1S90, the nomination for 
the county clerkship. It must be a source of no little satisfaction for a man to know 
that the approval of his official acts and his personal popularity caused a change of 
over one thousand votes in a county like Elkhart. This is true in Mr. Chester's 
case and is demonstrated by the fact that as a Democrat he was elected county clerk 
hv a majority of 786 votes, when the usual Republican majority in the county is at 
least 300. Mr. Chester's popularity is. in a measure, no doubt, the logical result of 
his official qualifications and the invariable rule he puts into execution of obliging 
those who seek his assistance, and the gentlemanly courtesy extended to all, regard- 
less of politics or religion. As a further mark of favor, on the part of his party, he 
was elected one of the two delegates from the Thirteenth Congressional District of 
Indiana to the National Democratic Convention, at Chicago, in 1892, that resulted 
in the nomination of Cleveland and Stevenson. Mr. Chester is a member of the 
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, is the present supreme reporter of the Knights 
of Maccabees, is grand foreman of the Ancient Order of United "Workmen, and has 
served as an official in the Grand Lodge of the Knights of Pythias. 

William F. Wahl. Among the worthy residents of Elkhart county, Ind., it is 
but just to say that Mr. Wahl occupies a conspicuous and honorable place, for he 
has always been honest, industrious and enterprising, and as a result has met with 
more than ordinary success. He is a man well known in agricultural circles, and 
is recognized as a careful, energetic farmer, who by his advanced ideas and pro- 
gressive habits has done much to improve the farming interests of bis section. No 
man takes a greater interest in the agricultural and stock affairs of Elkhart county 
than Mr. Wahl, and no one strives more actively to promote and advance these inter- 
ests to a higher plane. He has a native pride in this county, for he was born here, 
in Cleveland township, and it is but natural that he should strive to see all its mat- 
ters placed on a footing equal, if not superior, to the affairs of other counties in the 
State. He was born on the 28th of October, 1852, and is a son of Jacob and Ann 



ilEilOIRS OF IXDIAJfA. 493 

(King) Wahl, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Pennsylvania. The 
original of this notice was reared in Cleveland township and there received a good 
practical education. Inheriting the thrift and industry of his German ancestors he 
began when quite young to make his own way in life, and learned the cabinet- 
maker's trade in Elkhart. This was in 1874, and later he went to Grand Hapids, 
Mich., where he worked for alx)Ut nine years. Returning to Cleveland township, 
he was married there on the 29th of September, 1885, to Miss Tiola Landon, who 
was torn May 12, 1850, and who was a daughter of Columbus C. Landon. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Wahl have been bom two children: Clement L., bom August 5, 1S86, 
and Wilmot, born April 1, 1888. Mr. Wahl was elected justice of the peace in 1890, 
but as all his time was devoted to his farming interests, he did not qualify. He is 
a member of the Knights of Labor and Patrons of Industry. He is the owner of 
119 acres of good land, most of which is under cultivation, and everything about 
the place indicates the owner to be a man of good judgment and sound, practical 
sense. In politics he is a Democrat. 

George Milbubx. the present efiScient auditor of Elkhart county, is a fair rep- 
resentative of the better class of men, who began life's Ijattle at the lower rounds of 
the ladder, and through his own efforts has gained the topmost round. Practically 
speaking, he to-day is in comfortable financial circumstances, and the position he 
now occupies is direct evidence that he is the possessor of the confidence and esteem 
of his fellow man. When the correct view of life is taken, what more could be ex- 
pected of mortal man ? The acquirement of sufiicient wealth to keep one's family in 
comfort, and the fulfilment, to the best of one's ability, of the Divine command: 
" Do unto others as you would be done by," has been one of Mr. Milburn's principal 
efforts throughout his career. The fact that he occupies one of the most responsible 
and lucrative offices within the gift of the people of Elkhart county, is undisputable 
evidence that he has the confidence of the public. George Milbum is a native of 
Canada, his birth occurring in the Province of Ontario, May 13, 1839, and is a son of 
John and Martha (Rose) Milbum. The father was lx)ru in England, but moved to 
Canada when a boy and there married, his wife beiucr a native of Canada, and a de- 
scendant of the early Dutch colonists of the New England States. He followed 
merchandising through life, and died leaving a widow and four children surviving 
him. Two children bom to his maiTiage died in infancy; one son died in Cass county, 
Mich., at the age of twenty-two years; two sons (Thomas and John D. ( are prom- 
inently connected with the manufacturing interests of Memphis. Tenn., and the only 
surviving member of his family in Indiana is the subject of this sketch. The mother 
died in Memphis in 1878, of Yellow fever. George Milburn received a good common 
education in youth, which was more of the practical than theoretical order. When 
about sixteen years old, he came to the States and began clerking for his uncle, after 
whom he was named, at Mishawaka, Ind., and remained with him until 1865. Dur- 
ing this time he acquired an interest in the celebrated Milbum Wagon Works at that 
place, but after the big fire which destroyed a large part of the property, after the 
close of the war, Mr. Milburn disposed of his interests and moved to Bristol. 
Purchasing a small tract of land, he engaged in fruit growing, and from time to time 
as his increasing means permitted, added to his posessions until he now owns 170 
acres of valuable land, all but seventy acres being exclusively devoted to fruit cult- 
ure. Although a Democrat in politics, Mr. Milbum is in no sense what is 
termed a politician. He l^elieves in the policy of his party, but never aggressively 
urges his views on others; he invariably makes use of the inalienable right of the 
American citizen, but illustrates by action the method of attending strictly to his own 
business, and not meddling with matters of no concern to him. These qualities 
made him unn.sually popular, and when he became the candidate of his party for 
county auditor in l890, he not only overcame the reliable Republican majority 
of 400 votes against the Democrats, but secured a popular majority of 4li5 
votes over his opponent. Ability and courtesy have characterized his administration, 



494 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

and he tmquestionablv has given satisfaction to all, regardless of politics. In 186-1 
Mr. ililburn married Miss Mary E. Hanford, who died without issue two vears later. 
In 1S6S he wedded Miss Elizabeth P. Congdon. who has borne him six children, five 
of whom survive (Laura dying in January 1S92): Henry H., Mary E., Laura. 
Helen. Florence and Eollin G. Mrs. Milburn is a member of the Episcopal 
Church. 

Isaac Shets. The entire life of Mr. Shinn has been passed in ceaseless activity, 
and has not been without substantial evidences of success, as will be seen from a 
glance at his rather small, but very productive farm. His career is an example of 
industry, perseverance and good management, rewarded by substantial results, well 
worthy the imitation of all who start out in life as he did with no capital except a 
good constitution and liberal supply of pluck and energy. Mr. Shinn was born in 
Lincoln county. Ohio. June 26, 1S35. and is a son of Stacy and Esther (Fowle) 
Shinn. both natives of New Jersey. The parents emigrated from their native couuty 
to Ohio in 1S35. settled on a farm, and there Stacy Shinn died shortly afterward. 
His wife survived him until about four years ago. and was about seventy years of 
age at the lime of her death. These children were born to their union: William, 
Amos. Nathan. Stacy. Elizabeth, Rachel and Isaac; Nathan, Rachel and Isaac being 
the only ones now living. The youthful days of our subject were spent on the farm 
in Ohio, and as his father died before he was born, at a very young age he was 
obliged to start out to battle in life for himself. He had very limited advantages 
for receiving an education, but as he was indastriotis and reared to hard labor, he 
obtained a competency and has many of the comforts and conveniences of life. He 
was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Swartz, who died October 27, ISSl. leav- 
ing five children, -who are named as follows: Amos, Sarah C, Celia H., George 
W. and Nettie S. Mr. Shirin's second marriage occurred January 29, 1SS5, at Elk- 
hart to Miss Mary M Keefer. who was born in Ohio. September, 1S3-1, and who is 
a daughter of Peter and Catherine ( Rihert) Keefer, both natives of the green isle of 
Erin, and both of whom died in Elkhart county. Mr. Shinn has eighty acres of 
land, about eight acres of which is timber, and is one of the most industrious and 
thoroughgoing agrieultttrists of this section. He and wife are worthy and 
exemplary members of the Lutheran Church, and he is a stanch supporter of Dem- 
ocratic principles. 

William A. Beaxe, editor and proprietor of the Goshen Democrat, was born in 
Preble county, Ohio. October 5, 1S2S. He came with his parents to Elkhart county 
in July. 1S36. where he attended the common schools of that time up to 1S41. the 
teachers being Capt. Henry Beane. E. D. .Smith, John Dantrow, Sylvester Webster, 
and last the Hon. Nelson Prentiss, of Albion, Noble county, who is now living at 
the age of eighty years. In the fall of 1S43 he came to Goshen, and that winter 
attended the school of A, C. Carpenter. In March. 18-14, he commenced the print- 
ing business with the late Dr. E. W. H. Ellis, in the old Democrat office, which 
then stood upon the same ground now occupied by his son, W. R. Ellis, immedi- 
ately north of the Court House. After working two years at the trade he took a 
position in the store of the late John Winder, where he remained until March. 1S50, 
a period of four years. After working at the printing business again, in different 
places, as a "jour" printer, for a couple of years, he settled down again in the 
Democrat office, where he has been almost tmintermptedly ever since. He first 
became the sole proprietor of the office in August. 1S60, and has been connected 
with it so closely since that any short vacation is hardly worth mentioning. His 
life is bound up in his favorite business as much as his files are inside of the covers 
of his books. Mr. Beane married in July, 1S54. and has raised six children, three 
sons and three daughters, as follows: Mrs. W. E. Geddes. of Cbicago: Charles E. 
Beane, of Salt Lake City, I'tah; Frank W. Beane, of Blackfoot, Idaho: Joseph A. 
Beane and Mrs. H. E. Whitmer, of Goshen, and Mrs. D. E. Studabaker, of 
Decator, Ind., thus leaving him where he commenced thirty-eight years ago. Mr. 



HEMOIRH Of I y BIAS A. 4t6 

Beane bad three sisters and two brothers, all of whom are dead except bis 
brother. C. C. Beane, of Leesborg, Ind., who was elected repreeentatiTe for 
Kosciusko countv in November, lSt>2. on the Bepnblican ticket Mr. Beane's father, 
William Beane, died in Benton, in March, 1S40. at the early age of thirty-eight 
years. Hig mother afterward married the late 3t£ark B. Thompson, by whom she 
had five children. Mrs. Thompson died in May, 1S72, and her hosband followed 
her in about six weeks afterward. The subject of this sketch has always had a 
strong attachment for G(»hen, where he has spent the beet years of his life, and 
the probabOity is that here is where his body will rest after "life's fitfol fever is 
over." He has attained considerable fame as an editor and a forcible, trenchant 
writer. Under his management the Goshen Democrat is a proDoanc«d financial 
success, and is justly recognized as one of the best and most readable papers pnb- 
lished in Indiana. 

Ho5. Dasiei. W. Vo-dehees. whom In liana Democrats so del^ht to honor, is a 
native of Ohio, his birth occnrring in Bntler county, September 26. 1S2T. and is a 
son of Stephen Voorhe^, a native of Kentucky, and a grandson of Peter Voorhies, 
of New Jersey nativity. When only two months old his parraits moved to Foantain 
county. Ind. , and this State has ever since been his home. Asbnry ITniversity grad- 
uated him in 1S49. and here he obtained a wide reputation as an orator of superin- 
abUity. and the high regard of the faculty. He studied law and in 1S52 was solie- 
ited by Hon. E. A. Hannegan, formerly United States senator, to become his part- 
ner, which he accepted. In 1S53 he was appointed State's attorney of his circuit by 
the governor, and thus obtained the foundation of his justly earned repntation as a 
superior criminal lawyer. In 1S56 he was the Democratic nominee for Congress, 
and although defeated, reduced the opposing majority nearly eighteen hundred 
votes. In 1857 he moved to Terre Haute, and the year following was appointed 
United States district attorney by President Bnchanan. In 1S6*J and in 18^2 he 
was elected to Congress, and in lS6-i, although declared elected, his election was 
successfully contested. In IS^S he was again elected to CaagiesB, and re-elected 
in ISTO. In November. ISTT. he was appointed United States senator to succeed 
Governor Morton, and has ever since occupied this positicm by election. Unques- 
tionably Mr. Voorhees is one of the most brilliant men that has ever held otBeo 
within the .State's jurisdiction. Not only has he an established reputaticm as a great 
statesman, but his fame as a criminal lawyer is equally as brilliant. He has always 
been an uoswerving. uncompromising Democrat. His great ability as a stateanan 
and lawyer is respected and acknowledged by alL regardless of polities. Mr. Voorhees 
married Miss -Jane Hardeety in 1S5(>, and four children hare blessed their miioD. 
" The Tall Sycamore of the Wabash," as he is known, occupies a prominent page in 
the TO-ume devoted to America's greatest sons. 

JoHS MosBOE (deceased). To keep green the memory of the departed whose 
lives were worthy and filled up with good deeds, is an object deserving much effort. 
Not only do the children of those who have passed on to the other world desire to 
perpetuate their memory, but their neighbors and friends may well feel that they 
are benefited by rehearsing the incidents of the life that has closed. He, of whom 
we write, was bom in the Empire State, and in New York City, -January 16. ISIT. 
His parents. Abraham and Sarah (Butters i Monroe, were natives of that State also, 
and there our subject grew to mature years, receiving no educational advantages. 
Glowing accounts of the fertility of the soil of the Bnckeye State reached his ears. 
and in 1 S3T he emigrated to Columbiana county. Ohio, where he was married in 
1S42 to Mary Topper. The following children were the fruits of this union: 
WUliam T.. Elizabeth, Margaret, James and Lucinda. In October, 1S50. they 
removed to 5t. -Joseph county, Ind.. settled on a farm in Madisoa township, but 
subsequently moved from there to Penn township, where Mr. Monroe passed 
away, .July 9, 1SS2. Mrs. Monroe stUl survives him and makes her IxHne with 
her son, William. She has lost the use of her limbs and has been eonfinad 



496 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

to her bed for more than six years. She is now quite aged, being over seventy-six 
years old. Her son, William T. Monroe, was born in CDlumbiana county, Ohio, 
March 21, 1847, and when three years of age he was taken by his parents to St. 
Joseph county, where he was reared. He had limited educational advantages, but 
being naturally of a atudious turn of miud, most of his education was received by 
diligent study at homo. On the 7th of July, 1872, in Elkhart county, he was married 
to Miss Alma Noffsinger, who was born October 12, 1855, and who was a daughter 
of Jacobaud Margaret (Overlees) Noffsinger, the former a native of Elkhart county, 
born May 2f3, 1831, and the latter of Ohio, born June 25, 1836. Jacob Noffsinger 
died June 7, 1882, but his widow is still living and makes her home in Elkhart. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Monroe have been born two iuteresting children; Jennie L., 
born November 28, 1874, and Pearl A., born December 17, 1876. Mr. Monroe has 
sixty-one and a half acres of land, about three acres of which is timber land, but the 
balance is under cultivation. He has a good residence and his out-buildings are all 
in good condition. Previous to his settlement in this county Mr. Monroe resided 
north of Osceola, in St. Joseph couuty, where he owned forty acres of land. 
In 1881 he came to Elkhart couuty, where he has made a permanent settlement. In 
politics he is a Democrat and his two children are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. 

James L. Kerstettee, secretary and manager of the Goshen Woolen Mills Com- 
pany, and one of Elkhart county's best known citizens, is a native of Stark county, 
Ohio, his birth occurring February 6, 1837. He is one of a family of eight children, 
three (James L., Edmund R. and Chauncey W.) yet living, born to the marriage of 
Peter Kerstetter and Mary Rogers. The father was a Pennsylvanian by birth and 
descended from German ancestry. When but a boy he was bound out to a saddler, 
but because of harsh treatment ran away, and when next heard from was at Minerva, 
Ohio, engaged in the harness aud saddlery business. He there married, but in the 
year 1839 moved to York township, Elkiiart Co., Ind., and became the pioneer in 
the manufacture of fauniug-mills. In 1844 he moved to Goshen, where he after- 
ward engaged in stock dealing. Being of a social disposition, he made many ac- 
quaintances, and invariably an acquaintance became a friend. He was honest and 
open in his dealings, and in politics was a Whig, Free Soiler and Republican. He 
died in 1875, followed by his widow nine years later. When two years old James 
L. Kerstetter was brought to Elkhart county, and when fifteen he began doing for 
himself. His education was obtained from the common schools, college at Kalama- 
zoo, Mich., and Wabash College at Crawfordsville, this State. His father and 
brother Edmund having enlisted for the war he returned to Goshen, after having 
taught school and clerked for a time after coming out of college, in order to assist 
his mother. For four years he was engaged with A. L. Hubbell in the grocery trade, 
and later continued a like business alone. Upon the close of the war he accepted 
his brother, Edmund R., as a partner, and dry goods were added to their stock of 
groceries. When his brother was elected sheriff of the county, the brothers still 
continued as partners in the general income. Owing to there being ample work for 
both in the sheriff's office, their stock of goods was sold, and, still continuing as 
partners, the brothers conducted the affairs of the office to which Edmund R. had 
been elected, two terms. Afterward, James L. engaged in saw-milling until he was 
burned out in 1874, when he went to La Porte and was employed by his wife's uncle, 
Frederick C. King, in a woolen-mill. He remained there five years, then returned 
to Goshen, where he has since resided, and is identified with what is now the Goshen 
Woolen Mills Company. This institution gives employment to about forty-five hands 
and annually transacts business amounting to nearly $60,000. When a young man 
Mr. Kerstetter clerked in a store at La Grange, Ind. He there met, and Octolier 13, 
1861, wedded Miss Susan E., daughter of Benjamin King, and by her is the father 
of four children: Jessie, Florence, Frederick and Fanny. Mr. Kerstetter cast his 
first vote for Lincoln in 1860, and he has ever since affiliated with the Republican 
party. He is one of Goshen's most enterprising and public-spirited men. 



MEMOIRS OF IXBIASA. 497 

Willis Laytos. Prominent among the representative citizens of Elkbart county 
stands the name of Willis Layton, a native of the Buckeye State, which has contrib- 
uted so much of population and of intelligence to Indiana. He was born in Miami 
county, June 15, 1843, and is a son of Benjamin F. and Mary (Wilmore) Layton, 
native Virginians, the father born on December 19, 1801, and the mother in Kock- 
bridge county, January 19, 1808. Both parents grew to mature years in their native 
State and were married ou September 16, 18'.^3. Five years after this union they 
removed to Miami county, Ohio, and located on a farm near Piqua, where they made 
their home until December, 18-18, at which time they removed to Elkhart county, 
Ind. They settled on a farm in Cleveland township, where the son Willis now 
resides, and as there were oiil}' about five acres cleared at that time, Mr. Layton went 
actively to work to develop and make imj)rovemeuts. He was unusually successful 
and passed the remainder of his days in cultivating the soil, his death occurring on 
October 7, 1854. His wife survived him until November 17, 1872. An old-fashioned 
family of eleven children was born to this worthy couple, four of whom are living: 
Susannah, born September 2, 1S34; Katie A., born July 19, 1837; Joseph J., born 
May 18, 1841, and Willis. Those deceased are: Martha J., born August 16, 1828, 
and died January 30, 1892; William W., borii August 16, 1832, and died May 20, 
1866; Benjamin F., born June 2, 1837, and died in the army in 1862 from the efPects 
of a wounil received in the battle of Fort Douelson; Mary E. , born June 23, 1846, 
and died October 3, 1854; Naucy E., born March 27, 1849, and died September 18, 
1854; Sarah A., born June 14, 1853, and died September 25. 1854, and one died in 
infancy, in Ohio. When five years of age, Willis Layton was brought by his parents 
to Elkhart county, Ind., where he was reared on a farm, and where he received his 
education in the common schools. On September 10, 1S61, he donned his suit of 
blue and enlisted in Company I, Forty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry; turned 
recruiting officer and got several recruits for said company and was with his regiment 
in all its battles, skirmishes and marches the entire four years and four days, except 
time of absence caused bj' being a prisoner and a three dajs' mounted infantry ride 
after the enemy while he was on detached service. He was in the siege of Chatta- 
nooga, where there was less than one-fourth rations issued for more than three 
months, and he paid 50 cents an ear for corn to grind in a coffee-mill to make mush 
without salt to season it with; it was relished better than well-prepared meals are 
now, and there was very little corn or provision to be had at any price. If a person 
succeeded in buying an ear of corn the thought would come up before him that it was 
stolen from a starving mule. But from General Thomas down, they had resolved not 
to go any farther north until the enemy was whipped or they were starved or killed. 
The men made little complaint about their condition. For two or three weeks after 
the Chickamauga battle, going on picket duty was about like going on the skirmish 
line, as there was more or less firing on the line all the time. Willis was in a train 
wreck between Chattanooga and Knosville, Tenn., where one man was killed and 
himself and several others were more or less seriously injured. He took a prominent 
part in the battle of Chickamauga, in which he received a gunshot wound in his left 
knee. He still feels the effects of this wound, and lieing obliged to be vaccinated, 
in April, 1864, he suffers from the impurities that passed through his system and is 
unfit for work. He receives a pension of §14 per month, which is a very small 
price indeed for the loss of his health. Mi'. Layton was taken prisoner while on 
picket duty near Henderi^on, Ky., and was taken to Little Eock, Ark., where he was 
confined tbree months. About the first of the year 1862 he succeeded in escaping, 
but before he got to the Union lines was taken seriously ill, from exposure, was re- 
captured and taken back to the rebel hospital. There he remained four months and 
was very ill indeed. When he improved again he was confined in the prison, but 
shortly afterward effected his escape and made his way to Fort Scott, Kan., the 
nearest point where the Union army was stationed. Before reaching his destination 
he was fired upon by Coffey's cavalry, and they, believing him to be a spy, gave him 



498 PICTORIAL AMD BIOGRAPHICAL 

a hasty trial; but there not being sufficient evidence he was paroled, afterward mak- 
ing his way to Fort Scott. At that point he was furnished transportation to the 
North by General Lane, commander of the post at that place. During Sherman's 
famous march to the sea he was detailed to drive a post ambulance from Chattanooga 
to supply the General's shortage in that line. He followed after the Sixty-sixth 
Regiment, Illinois Volunteei's, which were armed with the Henry repeating rifles and 
they fought like tigers, being deployed as skirmishers most of the time. They ran 
the enemy as a deer would run from a destroyer, keeping up almost a continual fire 
at them. But every once in a while it was his sad duty to pick up one of the 
boys who had fallen in battle, far from home and kind hands that would gladly have 
cared for them. He went with them well down into the heart of Georgia before he 
was relieved. He then returned to his regiment at Chattanooga, Tenn., and was at 
the battle of Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge, but was in reserve. He 
fought bravely for the old flag and no braver soldier trod the sod of a battlefield. 
Mr. Layton was married on October 6, 1870, to Miss Sarah L., daughter of John 
and Jane (Bryson) Nixon, the former a native of Ireland, born September 24, 1805. 
Mr. Nixon was reared on the Green Isle and when seventeen years of age braved 
Neptune's tender mercies and came to America, locating in Pennsylvania, where he 
remained one year. From there he went to Ohio, located in Huron county, and 
was there married on September '20, 1827, to Miss Jane Bryson, a native of Center 
county, Penn., born January 17, 1806. To them were born the following children: 
Jane A., born November 20, 1828, and died January 15, 1875; Elizabeth, born July 
20, 1830, and died March 4, 1873; James, born January 14, 1833, and was killed 
at the battle of Richmond, Ky., August 30, 1862; Robert, born August 26, 1835, 
and died April 12, 1854; Samuel B. , born August 29, 1837, and died September 28, 
1838; Isabella, born April 18. 1840; William, liorn April 11, 1843, and killed at the 
battle of luka, Miss., September 19, 1862; Sarah L., born September 30, 1845, and 
David, born October 12, 1850. After residing in Ohio twelve years, Mr. and Mrs. 
Nixon moved to Cass county, Mich., and there resided until February, 1838, when 
they moved to Kosciusko, where tiiey made a permanent settlement, residing on one 
farm for over forty years. Mr. Nixon died on February 25, 1875, and his wife sur- 
vived him until February 11, 1890. To our subject and wife were born three 
children: Etta L., born August 23, 1871; Millard W., born April 3, 1881, and 
Katie M., born April 15, 1883. Mr. Layton has twenty acres of land, principally 
devoted to small fruit, and he also has an apiary of about twenty colonies, but for- 
merly had one hundred. In politics Mr. Layton is a Republican and is a mem- 
ber of Elmer Post, G. A. R., of Elkhart. 

Gen. Alvin Peterson Hovey, who died while serving his first term as governor 
of Indiana, was a native Hoosier, his birth occurring in that widely famed county of 
Posey September 6, 1821, and, like thousands of others who attained prominence in 
American history, his lot in youth was one of hardship and gave no hint of the 
honors that a strong intellect, fairly used, coupled with unwearying industry, were 
to bring him. In the common schools of his native county, which were then of the 
poorest, and are not now much better, he managed to pick up a rudimentary educa- 
tion which he supplemented by hard study, after the active work of his life had 
begun. He studied law and, having been admitted to the bar in 1843, when about 
twenty-two years of age, he entered at once upon what, his youth and surroundings 
considered, was a successful and lucrative practice as an attorney at Mount Vernon. 
For seven years he devoted himself to his profession, l>ut about 1851 he was elected 
a member of the constitutional convention by which the constitution of Indiana was 
revised, and so greatly did he distinguish himself in that body that in the next year 
he was chosen circuit judge of the Third Judicial District of his State and, after 
three years' service upon that bench, was in May, 1854, made one of the judges of 
the Supremo Court of Indiana, but held the position only a few months. He was 
appointed by President Pierce in 1855 United States district attorney for the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 499 

District of Indiana, from which he was removed by President Buchanan because of 
having been an ardent supporter of Douglas. During the war with Mexico he was 
a lieutenant, but his company failed to secure an entry into one of the regiments 
assigned to Indiana. When the war of the Rebellion came upon the country, 
although he had never had any military training and had never shown the slightest 
aptitude or inclination for the military profession, he instantly cast aside his per- 
sonal considerations, enlisted in the service and started out as colonel of volunteers, 
by appointment of Gov. Morton. His command was first employed in Arkansas, 
where, without any opportunity of becoming distinguished in battle, he so bore him- 
self that he won the admiration of his superiors. Shortly after the reduction of 
Fort Donelson, for meritorious service, he was commissioned brigadier general and 
a short time after was made major general, although he did not receive his commis- 
sion until two years after it was granted. In time his chance came to show the 
mettle of which he was made. Transferred to the Army of Tennessee, just before 
the opening of the memorable campaign which ended on July 4, 1863, in the sur- 
render of Vicksburg, he was assigned to an important command. At the battle of 
Champion's Hill, which was the pivotal one of the brief and brilliant series of 
engagements by which Gen. Pemberton was forced back with his entire army into 
Vicksburg, Gen. Hovey so executed the task which fell to his lot, that Gen. Grant 
spoke of him, in bis official report, in terms of highest praise, awarding him the 
honor of the victory at Champion's Hill, which Grant himself called the "key 
battle" of his movements to get in the rear of Vicksburg. After the fall of this 
place he was sent to a field of duty where he could gain no military laurels, but 
where his services were of vital value to the Union cause, for he was put in command 
of the District of Indiana, where, with the powerful aid of Oliver P. Morton, then 
governor, he prosecuted and kept the disaffected element under control. The war 
being ended he resigned his commission in the army in October, 1865, and soon 
after was appointed United States minister to Pern, having declined the mission to 
Buenos Ayres, which had been tendered him. After holding the post of minister to 
Peru for tive years, he resigned it in 1870, when he returned to Indiana and resumed 
the practice of law, to which he confined himself for the next sixteen years, but all 
the time, having a keen interest in public affairs both national and State, he put 
his ability as a public speaker at the service of the Republican party, having prior 
to the war been a Democrat. In 1886 he was a candidate of his party for Congress 
and was elected in a close district. In the House of Representatives he showed so 
much civic ability that in 1888 he was made the nominee of his party for governor 
of his State and entered at once upon the hottest political campaign the State has 
ever known. As a result of the canvass he received a plurality of votes of 2.200 over 
his competitor. Gen. Matson, who had been a gallant Union soldier, had shown a 
capacity for civil office and was in every way the strongest candidate the Democrats 
could have nominated. Being thus chosen as the first Republican governor Indiana 
has had since the war, Gov. Hovey entered upon the duties of his office and in their 
discharge displayed the same courage, clear intellect and unsullied integrity with 
wliich he ever met every other function allotted to him. While fulfilling the 
requirements of his office he was taken ill and died November 23, 1891. He was a 
ripe Latiu scholar, was determined and self-reliant, a frequent contributor to maga- 
zine literature and a poet of more than ordinary ability. 

Henry W. Bissell. It is generally considered by those in the habit of super- 
ficial thinking that the history of so-called great men only is worthy of preservation, 
and that little merit exists among the masses to call forth the praise of the historian 
or the cheers and appreciation of mankind. A greater mistake was never made. 
No man is great in all things, and very few are great in many things. Many by a 
lucky stroke achieve lasting fame, who before that had no reputation beyond the 
limits of their neighborhood. It is not a history of the lucky stroke which benefits 
humanity most, but the long study and effort which made the lucky stroke possible. 



500 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

It is the preliminary work — the method — that serves as a guide for the success of 
others. Thus it appears that the lives of the masses out of which come the men 
who control the world, will furnish the grandest, truest lessons for the benefit of 
humanity. The common soldier, who bears the brunt of battle and who does his 
best, is as much entitled to highest praise for his efforts as is the general who stands 
back out of rifle shot and directs the struggling troops to victory. The widow who 
places her mite upon the altar deserves greater praise for her sacrifice than the 
prince who places thereon a costly pearl. The widow gives all she has; the prince 
will never miss his gift. And a history of the widow's suffering and sacrifice is of 
much greater pathos and value to the student of history and human nature, than the 
dizzy stor}' of the ostentatious gift of the priuce. All writers agree that the quiet 
lives are the ones which furnish the best examples of heroism, sacrifice and merit. 

After all this is said, the honest man, the man who has endeavored, to the best 
of his ability, to follow the precepts of the Golden Kule,the man who has lived to the 
age of four score years and universally commands the respect of his fellow-men 
even though he has attained no high political or other preferment, is the one whose 
life is worthiest of emulation and whose history is most deserving of preservation. 
Such a man is Henry W. Bissell, whose name forms the subject of this memoir. 
His ancestors were French, but for many generations lived in England. The general 
belief and accepted version of the advent of the family in America is that John 
Bissell, a native of Somersetshire, Englaud (where he was born about the year 
1591) in order to escape the religious persecutions so common at that time, immi- 
grated to the colonies with his family in 1628, landing at Plymouth Rock, Massa- 
chusetts. According to Stile's History of Old Windsor, Connecticut, to which 
point he moved about the year 1040, he was the first settler on the east side of the 
river and had charge of the Scantic Ferry. From this pioneer, John Bissell, the 
different heads of the family are traced in a direct line to the immediate subject of 
this sketch, as follows: John, Jr.; John, Jr., the third who married Izrel Mason; 
Daniel married Margaret Dewey; Ezekiel married Kiith Devotion; Eliphaz mar- 
ried Elizabeth Birge; Eliphaz, Jr., married Diantha Norton. This brings the 
record up to Henry W. Bissell, of whom a more extended notice is here given. A 
native of the State of New York, his birth occurred at Vernon Center, Oneida coun- 
ty, June 26. 1812, being now the only living representative of his family, origi- 
nally consisting of three sons and two daughters. His youth was passed in a similar 
manner to that of hundreds of other boys, having been spent in assisting his parents 
at home and in attending the district schools. During his early manhood he com- 
pleted his schooling by attending Cazenovia Seminar}', and later in life began farm- 
ing, teaching and clerking. In 1837, while on a visit to Detroit, where a brother 
was living, he embarketl in a trading tour through western Michigan and northern 
Indiana, and passing through Goshen was so well pleased with the village and its 
surrounding fertile lands that he determined to make it his future home. In 1839 
he opened a general store on the east side of Main street, opposite the present 
court house, which he operated about fifteen years, also being interested as part- 
ner a part of the time with \\ illiam Cowan, at Oswego, in a similar enterprise. 
Returning to his native State for a wife, he wedded Sabrina A. Spencer in 1840, 
who died May 26, 1846, leaving him three small children — Amelia J., Harriet E. 
(died in 1847), and Sabrina C., who died in 1848. The first named is the wife 
of A. E. Billings, of Toledo, Ohio, and is the only one living of Mr. Bissell' s 
children. For a second wife he selected Mrs. A. M. (Turk) Sands, of Somers, 
Westchester Co., N.Y., a lady of Huguenot ancestry, who died Maj' 19, 1880, with- 
out issue. Together with his family Mr. Bissell, the winter of 1853-4, visited 
Washington, remaining a period of nine months, visiting all the places of interest 
and particularly the houses of Congress. He particularly recalls the memorable 
speech of Stephen A. Douglas on the Missouri Compromise Bill, and considers 
this vacation one of the most enjoyable events in his life. Returning to Goshen, 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAyA. 501 

Mr. Bissell turned bis attention more exclusively to dealing in grain, which he 
continued for about seventeen years, acquiring a competency. Since then he has 
retired from active operations, confining his time to the management of his valu- 
able estate and in the contemplation of a well-spent life. A Whig firt^t in politics, 
he naturally drifted into Republican ranks upon the organization of that party, 
and has ever since affiliated as such. For nearly half a century he has been 
identified with the Presbyterian Church. While a man of strong convictions and 
steadfast resolutions, Mr. Bissell has at no time obtruded his opinions upon others, 
nor has he ever sought political or other preferment. His busy career has given 
him time to do but little else than purbue the even tenor of his way and in assist- 
ing, so far as alile, all meritorious causes. 

A. W. Shidler. The name of Shidler has been known in St. Joseph county, 
Ind. , for nearly fortj' years, for in 1854 Mr. Shidler took up his residence in the 
south part of Union township, at what was for many years known as the Shidler 
Mill, which came into possession of the Coquillards and was eventually burned and 
never rebuilt. Mr. Shidler is one of the well-known and influential men of the 
county and, as his walk through life has been characterized by honor, kindness and 
generosity, he well merits the numerous friends he has gathered about him. He is 
a product of Stark county, Ohio, where he was born in 1832, the youngest of thir- 
teen children born to George \V. and Catherine (Wise) Shidler, the former of whom 
was born and reared in Washington county, Penn., a son of John and Sarah Shid- 
ler, who were among the early residents of the Keystone State, where they eventu- 
all}- passed from life. In the State of Pennsylvania George W. Shidler and wife 
were married, but about 1800 with his wife and eldest child he went on horseback to 
Stark county, Ohio, he walking and his wife riding on horseback and carrying the 
baby who was about one year old. They settled on a woodland farm and as their 
nearest neighbor was four miles away they would have spent many lonely hours had 
not their time been fully occupied in the laudable endeavor to clear and otherwise 
improve their laud. He became well known throughout that section as a public- 
spirited and honorable citizen and not only made a success of farming but also of 
saw-milliug. and became a man of considerable property, and gave to each of his 
children 160 acres of land. He was a Whig in politics and at the time of his death 
in 1855, in Stark county, Ohio, when in his seventy-seventh year, he was a member 
of the German Baptist Church. Although he passed through many hardships in the 
early part of his career, his energy and determination knew no bounds; he not only 
cleared and improved his land but he made other ventures also, in which he was suc- 
cessful, and he taught his children to be honest and industrious men and women. 
His wife was a daughter of John and Nanc)' Wise, who were Pennsylvanians by 
birth and early settlers of Stark county, Ohio, locating in the vicinity of Canton 
about 1805. There John Wise entered two sections of land, on which the city of 
Canton now stands, and there both Mr. and Mrs. Wise were called from life. The 
great great-grandfather Wise was a soldier in the war for independence, and at one 
time in endeavoring to escape from the British soldiers, hid in a hay mow. where 
one of the soldiers ran his bayonet through Mr. Wise's hat but did not touch him. 
Although he came of English stock he was in the active service of the continental army 
and did much to assist this country in throwing off the British yoke. John Wise, 
the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, reared a family of nine children and 
Peter and Adam became prominent men, serving in the Legislature of Ohio, the lat- 
ter being elected to the Senate three different times. Mr. Shidler's mother died in 
Union township, this county, at the home of her son A. W., in 1867, at the age of 
eighty-seven years. She had seen many hard times in the pioneer days of Ohio but 
was alvi-ays cheerful, helpful and kind. She became the mother of thirteen children: 
David, the oldest of the familj-, was born in Pennsylvania, reared a family and died 
in 1860; Susan, who married Jacob Hoover and moved to Kosciusko county, Ind., 
where both passed from life; Mary became the wife of B. Clark and lived in Stark 



503 " PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHIOAL 

county; John is eighty-two years old and is a resident of Kansas; George and 
Anna died in infancy; Rebecca married John Nunemaker who is now deceased, 
and who lived in Stark county; Catherine married Philip Meece and died in Stark 
county in 1850; Peter, who resides in Missouri, was forced to leave his home during 
the war, and with three of his sons entered the Union army and his eldest son, who 
was wounded and captured, was starved to death in Libby Prison ; after the war 
the other two sons were engaged to carry provisions to the western forts and were 
both killed by the Indians; the father, who is now quite aged, is a retired farmer 
of Missouri; he reared a family of thirteen children; Samuel, who is living in 
Stark county, Ohio, is a man of family and is a farmer by occupation; Eliza, mar- 
ried Jacob Motz and lives in Stark county; Jacob came to St. Josejih county, Ind., 
with the subject of this sketch and lived on a farm in Union township where he 
tilled the soil and operated a sawmill witli bis brother A. W., for three years. At 
the close of the war he started for the Black Hills and died at Clark's Forks on the 
Yellowstone River, leaving a wife and seven children who reside near Lakeville. 
Adam W., the subject of this sketch, was the youngest of the family and naturally 
was the last one to leave home. Although his early advantages were not at all good 
he possesses a valuable fund of information, for his natural abilities and contact with 
the business affairs of life have in a great measure remedied the lack of early oppor- 
tunities. At the age of seventeen, owing to the fact that his father was well along 
in years and unable to follow the plow, he took the management of the home farm 
upon his own shoulders and continued to sucessfully conduct it until he was twenty 
years old. He then bought a farm in the vicinity on which he lived two years, then 
came to St. Joseph county, Ind., with his wife, whom he had married in Ohio 
shortly after attaining his majority. During the years that he operated a saw- 
mill and farmed with his brother, he was successful, but he eventually sold it and 
bought a portable mill, which he ran for some time. His attention for some time 
past has been directed to saw-milling, farming and stockraising, sheep and horses 
receiving particular attention at his hands. He has always been a Republican in pol- 
itics, and is a public-spirited man who has been active in the affairs of his section. 
He is a member of Lakeville Lodge, No. 353, of the A. F. & A. M., the I. O. O. F. 
of South Bend, and is a member of and deacon in the Christian Church, in which 
he is an active worker. Mrs. Shidler is also a member of the Christian Church and 
highly respected wherever known; was born in Stark county, Ohio, October 7, 1832, 
being the youngest but one of a family of tifteen children born to Christian and Bar- 
bara (Miller) Klopfenstine, both of whom were born, reared and married in Ger- 
many. Eight of their children were born in the old country, three died there, and 
with the rest they emigrated to this country about 1826 and settled in Stark county, 
Ohio, where they cleared up a good farm from the wilderness, on which the mother 
died in 1853, at the age of sixty-two years, a member of the Amith Mennonite 
Church. The father died five years later when seventy-five years of age. Their 
children are: Anna, the deceased wife of Christian Yoder of Stark county, Ohio; 
Michael is a well-to-do farmer of Stark county; Christian, who died at the age of 
twenty years; Peter, who died in Fulton county, Ohio, where his widow is still liv- 
ing; Barbara is the wife of Peter Miller and lives in Louisville, Stark county; Cath- 
erine, wife of John Shilling, lives in Stark county; Joseph is a resident of Califor- 
nia, whither he went in 1849, via Cape Horn; Lena became the wife of N. Smith 
and lived in St. Joseph county, but after the death of Mr. Smith married Samuel 
Carroll and now lives in Canton, Stark county, Ohio; Andrew lives in Bingham, 
Utah, was a forty-niner to California and did well as a miner; Mary is the wife of 
Mr. Shidler; Fannie married Christian Fogle and is living at La Pass, Marshall 
Co., Ind. Mrs. Shidler lived with her parents in Stark county until her marriage 
and her eldest child, Bell, was born there July 26, 1853. She is married to Andrew 
Moon and lives within two miles of Lakeville, Ind., the mother of the following 
children: Nora, Berton, Edith, Cecil, Don and Eva. The second child born to 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 503 

Mr. and Mrs. Shidler was Francis L., born June 30, 1856, is married to E. Hupp 
and lives oue-half mile east of Lakeville. He is an undertaker and they are the 
parents of four children: Enid, Maud, Dwight and Mabel. Emma L. was born 
October 20, 1858, is the wife of John Neddo, lives one mile north of Lakeville and 
has two children, Homer and Inez. Arthur L. was born September 28, 1860, is liv- 
ing in EUisville, 111., and for six years has been a successful practicing physician. 
He graduated at Valparaiso, Ind., and the P. & S. College of Chicago. He 
married Laura Hugh and has a daughter, Merl ; he is a Ilepul)lican. Schuyler F. 
was born October 10, 1862, is a successful physician at Sheridan, Mo. ; he grad- 
uated at Valparaiso, Ind., and is a graduate at the P. & S. College of Chicago 
and is married to Hattie Main of Iowa. Alice was born December 14, 1864, is the 
wife of Dr. A. L. Wagner and has two children, Albert and Marie. John W. was 
born July 3, 1867, is a hardware merchant of EUisville, 111. Adam N. was born 
September 18, 1869, is associated with his brother John in business and is also teach- 
ing in the public schools of EUisville, and Clem E. , who was born December 9, 
1874, is an intelligent and energetic young man and was a school teacher in Union 
township, now started to take a three-year course at Valparaiso, Ind. All the sons 
at one time taught school and all of the daughters excejjt two, and one of them was 
a music teacher. Mr. Shidler has resided on his present line farm for twenty- 
eight years and has become greatly attached to the place. He has made many trips 
throughout the West and South and is an exceptionally well-informed man. He 
and his wife are very highly regarded wherever known. 

Hon. W. J. Davis, attorney and counselor at law, and member of the oldest 
legal firm of Goshen, Messrs. Wilson, Davis & Wilson, is a native of Fairfield 
county, Ohio, his birth occurring September 24, 1847. He is a son of David Y. 
Davis, also a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, and grandson of John Davis, a 
Pennsylvauiau, and family tradition says, of Welsh descent. When it required all 
the hardihood usually possessed by the pioneer, the elder Davis, in the year 1800, 
braved the perils of frontier life and immigrated to the wilds of Ohio with his fam- 
ily. David Y. Davis was a farmer, as was his father before him, following that 
occupation through life. He married Eunice E. Stirratt, who bore him one daugh- 
ter, and after her death wedded Sarah B. Packer. Eight children were born to his 
second marriage, six of whom grew to maturity and four are now living. The father 
was a man of more than ordinary intelligence, honest to the very penny, unobtru- 
sive in his intercourse with his fellow man, a Presbyterian in religion and a Whig, 
Know-Nothing and lastly a Republican in politics. He died April 17, 1891, pre- 
ceded by his wife in November, 1871. W. J. Davis was reared upon his father's 
farm in Ohio, attended the district school in his boyhood daj's and later the high 
schools at Rushville and Bremen. In May, 1866, he entered Washington and Jef- 
ferson College, at which he graduated August 6, 1868, with the degree of Bachelor 
of Science, and during his collegiate career determined to make the practice of law 
his vocation through life. After graduating he taught school two years in the 
States of Ohio and Pennsylvania, and during this time read law under the tuition 
of G. AV. K. Minor and John S. Brasee, of Uniontown, Penn., and Lancaster, 
Ohio, respectively. He was admitted to the bar of the Supreme Court at Columbus, 
Ohio, on February 28, 1871, and the day following this event went to Wells county, 
Ind. , for the purpose of checking the theft of timber from a valuable piece of land 
entered by his father in 1835 from the Government. The object of his visit was 
satisfactorilj' performed, and while there he associated himself in the practice of his 
profession with T. W. Wilson, at Bluffton. He remained there until 1878, when he 
removed to Goshen, where he has ever since resided, actively engaged in legal pur- 
suits. Mr. Davis is a Republican in politics. He volunteered for the cause of the 
Union during the Civil war, but was rejected because of not being old enough. 
Naturally of a studious nature, his youthful surroundings were such as to develop 
this disposition rather than retard its growth. His father being a great reader of 



504 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

the news aud good literature, kept his home supplied with the magazines and news- 
papers current at that time, and with good books. Young Davis found much of his 
youthful pleasures in reading his favorite authors at home instead of on the play- 
ground with boys of his age. This habit, cultivated in j'outh, has clung to him in 
his more mature years, and he is as much a student at forty-three as he was at lif- 
teen. Asa lawyer he rank=i among the first in the district. As a citizen he belongs 
to the Odd Fellows fraternity, the Presbj'terian Church, is enterprising and com- 
mands general respect. In ISS-t he was elected senator from Elkhart county, serv- 
ing four years and making a creditable record. He became a church member in 
1867, and at the spring session of 187fi, was selected to represent the Fort Wayne 
Presbytery in the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, which met at the 
church presided over by the Rev. T. DeWitt Talmage, of Brooklyn, N. Y. This 
was one of the most enjoyable events of Mr. Davis' life. He not only had the 
pleasure of participating in the duties to which he had been elected, but was enabled 
to visit the larger cities of the East aud the Centennial Exposition at Philadelphia. 
Mr. Davis was married October 9, 1873, to Miss Maria McKean, a oative of Wash- 
ington, Penn., and the daughter of Thomas and Fanny (Snodgrass) McKean. 
Five children have been l;)orn to this union; Thomas A., born Julv 31, 1874; Fannv 
M.,born July 2, 1870, died October 25, 1886; Clara, born July" 14, 1878, Bessie, 
born June lb, 1SS5; died October 27, 1886, aud Marie McK., born October 27, 1887. 
Mrs. Davis, as well as the older children, belongs to the Presbyterian Church. 

Hanson G. Mangdn. Agricultural pursuits have formed the chief occupation of 
this gentleman, and the wide-awake manner in which he has taken advantage of 
every method aud idea tending toward the enhanced value of his property has had 
considerable to do with his success in life. In addition to being a successful farmer, 
whose opinions upon matters pertaining to agriculture carries with them much 
weight in the community in which he lives, Mr. Marigun was a man of broad in- 
telligence and has given much attention to questions of public import. Originally 
from Ohio, Mr. Mangun was born in Carroll county, March 24, 1828, and is a son 
of James and Mary (Germen) Mangun, both natives of Prince George county, Mary- 
land, the father born February 16, 1782. The elder Mangun was reared in his 
native county, and started out empty handed to battle his own way in life. Much 
against his inclination or desire he became overseer on different plantations, but as 
he greatly disliked this he gave it up, and in 1815 came north to Carroll county 
Ohio. This was in the pioneer days of the Buckeye State, and the country was as 
yet almost a wilderness. He commenced to make a home in the heart of the forest, 
and his was the first ax to fell the mighty monarchs of the woods on his farm. To 
clear and cultivate his land required years of labor and economy, but his toil was 
rewarded, and he became one of the foremost and substantial men of his section. 
He made his home on this farm the remainder of his days, and passed away on April 
10, 1861. His wife also received her final summons on this farm, her death occur- 
ring in September, 1854. She was born on September 2, 1786, and was married to 
Mr. Mangun December 24, 1807, their nuptials being celebrated in Maryland. The 
following children were born to them: Ann; Maria; Mary E. ; Rachel; Sarah A. ; 
Jane died at the age of nine years; Benedict W. ; James; George S. ; Hanson G., and 
Stephen died in infancy. All these children are now deceased with the exception 
of four sons. Hanson G. JIangun was reared in his native county, and his early life 
did not differ materially from that of other farmers' boys, who are expected to con- 
tribute to their own support as soon as they become physically able to perform any kind 
of manual labor, and the most important part of whose education is supposed to be 
industrial trainincr. Mr. Mangruu was married October 9, 1851. to Miss Louisa 
Watkins, a native of Tuscarawas county, Ohio, and daughter of John C. aud Sarah 
(Kollar) Watkins, the former a native of Maryland, and the latter of Pennsylvania. 
Both were brought to Ohio by their parents at a very early age, Mr. Watkins being 
only about four years old at that time. In 1851 Mr. and Mrs. Watkins removed 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 505 

to St. Joseph coiiaty lad., and there Mr. Watkius died oa November 6, 1879. His 
wife Sarah is still living, and makes her home in St. Joseph county. To Mr. 
and Mrs. Mangun have l)een born nine children, seven of whom are living at the 
present time: Ezra R. (died in infancy), Sylvester A., Sarah A., Josiah L., Ida B. , 
John W., Mary, Will E. and Charlie. Sarah A. Mangnn was married to Lewis M. 
Gillis of St. Joseph county, Ind., February Vi, 1879. To Mr. and Mrs. Gillis have 
been born three children, two boys and one girl. Ida B. Mangun was married to 
John D. Gillis of St. Joseph county, Ind., Fel)ruary 26, 1880, and to them have been 
born two children, one boy and one girl. Sylvester A. Mangun was married to 
Alice Thornton, daughter of Elias Thornton of St. Joseph county, Ind., February 24, 
1881, and to tiiem have been born three children, all boys. Josiah L. Mangun was 
married to Eliza Hartong, daughter of Levi Hartong of Will county, HI-, December 
29, 1881, and to them have been born three children, two boys and one girl. Josiah 
L. Mauguu died December 10, 1888, at the age of thirty years. John W. Mangun 
was married to Amanda Hartong, daughter of Levi Hartong of Will county 111., 
November 15, 1882, and to them have been born three children, two boys and one 
girl. The three other children are still unmarried, and at home with their parents. 
Mr. Mangun has about ninety acres of good, tillable soil, and has nine acres of tim- 
ber. He came from his native county to this in October, 1867, and here he has 
resided since. In politics he is a Kepublican. He and his wife are worthy mem- 
bers of the Jlethodist Episcopal Church. 

John Manning. Among the sons of ])ioneers whose memory is so highly hon- 
ored in Elkhart county, is Mr. Manning, whose excellent farm and pleasant home is 
one of the ornaments of Cleveland township. His father, Elias Manning, was a 
native of the Buckeye State, and his grandfather, John Manning, in company with a 
brother, came across the Alleghany Mountains in about 1780 or 1790, when that 
section was a vast wilderness, and settled in Cincinnati. Ohio, and there remained 
for some time. From there they moved to Piqua, Ohio, and were among the 
pioneers of that place, in fact laid out the first addition of the place and erected a 
custom mill, portions of the old race and foundation being still visible. Here John 
Manaing died about the year 1810. Elias Manning was married to Miss Sarah W. 
Frost in 1S24, her parents being among the pioneers of Miami county, Ohio, 
and in 1834 he removed to Elkhart county, Ind., locating one mile west of 
Goshen, on Elkhart River, on the 1st of May of that year. During that year 
he erected a saw-mill, which was considered a very good one for that time, 
receiving custom from many distant points, this being one of the first mills in the 
county. In 1838 he also erected a gristmill, which he sold in 1842, moving on a 
farm in Jefferson township, and in 1844 he removed to Elkhart, where he resided 
until the time of his death in the fall of 1846. He was a millwright and his death 
occurred while on a business trip to Ohio. His marriage resulted in the birth of 
nine children, eight of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, as follows: William 
F., Oliver H. (deceased), Elizabeth F., Mary C. (deceased), Susan, Ebeneezer F., 
Nancy, Margaret (deceased), and our subject. Mrs. Manning survived her hus- 
band until the fall of 1871. The original of this notice was but eight years of age 
when he came with his parents to Elkhart county, Ind. , and there finished his growth. 
He learned the millwright trade of his father and followed this for many years. At 
the time of his father's death he took entire charge of Viiisiness, and continued the 
same imtil about 1872, at which time he located upon the farm where he now resides 
in Cleveland township. Mr. M;^nning was married January 6, 1864, to Miss Hortense 
Complon, who was born April 1, 1839, and who was a daughter of Ezekiel and 
Frances (WardI Comptoii, both natives of Ohio, born near Cleveland, the former 
February 24, ISll, and the latter February 16. 1813. Mr. Compton died in June, 
1854, but his wife still survives him and is a resident of Elkhart. Seven children 
were born to them, as follows: Jacob D., Eliza A., Hortense, Charles (died in 
infancy). Hugh G., and Mary E. and George E. (twins, the former deceased). By 



506 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

strict attention to business, and by an upright, honorable career, Mr. Manning 
became the owner of 407 acres of land, and has about 100 acres in timber. He has 
a commodious residence, and everything about the place indicates that an experi- 
enced hand is at the helm. His out-buildings are au ornament to the farm, and are 
not allowed to assume a dilapidated appearance. In politics he is a Kepublican, 
and has represented his township as trustee, besides holding other local positions. 
His marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: Lewis E. , born Octo- 
ber 13, 1864, and died October 17, 1887; George J., born September 6, 1872, and 
Mary A., born May 15, 1878. 

Gilbert H. Bdnch, who came to this section many years ago, was born in Gates 
county, N. C, in 1826, August 4, being the eldest child born to Jacob and Sarah 
Bunch, also North Carolinians, who took up their residence in Wayne county, 
lud. , about 1832, and after a number of years removed to Union City, where the 
father died at the age of seventy-two years, a public-spirited citizen and a Democrat 
politically. The mother died at the home of the subject of this sketch in St. Joseph 
county when about seventy-two years of age. Prior to her marriage with Mr. 
Bunch she married a Mr. Hurdle and by him became the mother of one child, 
Nancy, who died two years ago. She bore Mr. Bunch eleven children: Gilbert H.; 
Americus, who is a farmer of this county ; Elijah, who is living in Richmond, Ind. ; 
Thomas J., who is a resident of Ohio; Jacob, who died in this county some years ago; 
Joseph E., who is living in Indiana; Franklin, who is deceased; John, who also re- 
sides in Indiana; Jackson, who is a farmer of St. Joseph county; Melissa, who died 
at the age of twelve years, and another child who died ia infancy. Gilbert, Joseph, 
John and Jackson were soldiers in the Union army during the Civil war. Gilbert 
H. Bunch was an attendant of the common schools of Ohio and assisted on the home 
farm until he was eighteen years of age, when he began working for himself as a farm 
laborer, and the first year saved $50 of his wages. In the three years that he continued 
at this work, although his wages were very low, he managed to save §150. He then 
began to learn the carpenter's trade, but after settling in St. Joseph county in 1853, 
he began the manufacture of barrels on his timber farm, at which business he made 
considerable money. In addition to this he gave much of his attention to clearing 
and cultivating his land, and now has a well-improved farm of 240 acres two miles 
northeast of Lakeville, having given 100 acres to his daughter. In 1853 
he united his fortunes with those of Mary Reynolds, daughter of Aaron and 
Elizabeth Reynolds. Mr. Bunch lived on his farm until 1889, when he moved to 
Lakevile, and has for some time past lived a retired life. He has been a Republican 
since the organization of that party, but prior to that was a Democrat. Although he 
has held a number of township offices he never aspired to do so, but when elected 
discharged his duties to the best of his ability. Although eight children were born 
to himself and wife only two are now living; Deming, who died when at the age of two 
years; Lafayette, who died when one year old; Sarah, who died at the age of thirty-two 
years, was the wife of S. Judd and the mother of two children one of whom is living 
(Ethel P.); Letitia, who died at the age of fifteen years; Delmor, who died when three 
months old; Willie, who died in infancy; Clara, who is married to Clarence Good, 
has one living child, Mabel F., her son Milo dying past three years old; and Alva, 
who makes his home with his parents. On February 18, 1864, Gilbert H. Bunch 
enlisted in Company K, Fiftieth Regiment, New York Eugineer Corps, and was in the 
service of his country for sixteen months building bridges, forts, etc. He was in 
many of the principal battles in which the Eastern wing of the army was engaged 
and was present at Lee's surrender. April 9, 1865, he received his discharge at 
Fort Berry, Va., June 13, after which he returned home to once more take up the 
peaceful pursuit of farming. He has been a highly honored citizen of this section 
for many years, and is now enjoying the fruits of a well-spent life. 

Hon. Joseph Ewing McDonald to Indiana was what Allen G. Thurman was to Ohio. 
Unlike many statesmen of prominence he never descended to "ward politics," petty 






\UM\^^> ^^>V [7^Vos^ 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 509 

intrigues, or appealed to party prejudice; but on the contrary was dignified, a 
thoroughly honest, conscientious gentleman, appealing to intellect and reason rather 
than passion, and preferring to meet squarely all issues instead of avoiding them. 
Democracy lost its ablest and most candid representative in Indiana upon the death 
of Hon. J. E. McDonakl. Born August 29, 1819, in Butler county, Ohio, he was a 
son of John McDonald, a native of Pennsylvania, a farmer, and, as the name indi- 
cates, of Scotch ancestry. His mother was Eleanor (Piatt) McDonald, also a native 
of the Keystone State and a descendent of the French Huguenots. Josejih E. was 
left fatherless when yet a babe, and his mother marrying John- Kerr, the family 
moved to Indiana in 1S'2(3, and settled iu the almost unbroken forests of Montgomery 
county. It was amid scenes of hard labor and self denial that the character of this 
youth was formulated. Naturally of a studious nature, he seized every opportunity 
for mental improvement, borrowed books and papers that he was unable to purchase 
and often the midnight hour found him by the side of a tallow dip absorbing 
intellectual food from the best authors and from standard works. He was appren- 
ticed to the saddler's trade at an early day, and at eighteen entered Wabash College, 
at Crawfordsville, defraying his expenses by working at odd hours at his trade. He 
also attended Ashbury University six months, and in 1842 began the study of law at 
La Fayette, Ind. He was admitted to the bar, undergoing an examination before 
the supreme court judges, was nominated for prosecuting attorney of his district 
prior to receiving his license to practice, and was elected to this position the August 
following. He was re-elected to this office in August, 1845, serving in all four years. 
The fall of 1847 he moved to Crawfordsville and was elected to Congress from the 
old Eighth District two years later. In 1856 he was elected attorney general of the 
State, being the first chosen to this office by the people, and was re-elected, serving 
two full terms. In 1859 he removed to Indianapolis, where he continued an active 
career until his death. His knowledge of the law was remarkable, and his readiness 
in debate made him the foremost lawyer of the State. As an all-round attorney and 
counselor, his superior has never practiced in Indiana. He made the principal 
argument for the objectors in the count of the electoral vote of Louisiana before the 
commission appointed to determine the result of the presidential election of 1876, 
having, in March, 1875, been elected as a member of the United States Senate. 
Always a firm, consistent Democrat of the Jeffersonian school, he took rank among 
the first men of the nation and was once a prominent candidate for his party's nomi- 
nation for the presidency. Mr. McDonald was a Presliyterian in religious belief. 
He married Nancy B. Buell on Christmas day, 1844, and the issue to this union was 
throe sous and one daughter. For his second wife he married Josephine Farnswortb 
Barnard, January 12, 1881, while in the United States Senate. She still survives 
him. To this union there was no issue. Mr. McDonald died June 21, 1892, 
honored and respected. 

Capt. William R. Ross. The philosophy of success in life is an interesting study, 
and affords a lesson from which others can profit. In choosing a pursuit in life, 
taste, mental gifts, opportunity and disposition to labor, should be considered, as 
any young man who has a disposition to become a respectable and useful citizen desires 
to succeed therein. On September ]2, 1825, a boy was born in Rhode Lsland, who 
grew up to sturdy manhood, ambitious to excel and possessing much energy and 
determination, attributes which are essential to .success in any calling. This boy 
was William R. Ross, his parents being Arthur A. and Jerusha (Newell) Ross, who 
were also natives of Rhode Island, the birth of the latter occurring in 1801, and 
their respective deaths in 1804 and 1865. Arthur A. Ross was a minister of the 
Baptist Church, devoted thirty years of his life to the cause of his Master, iu which 
his labors were prospered, and he was well known an<il highly respected over a large 
territory. His father, John Ross, was a native of Connecticut, and throughout his 
life followed the occupation of farming, the details of which he had learned of his 
worthy father, Lemuel Ross, who was a native of the land of "thistles and oatmeal," 

30 " 



510 riCrORIAI. AXD BIOaliAPHICAL 

and also a tiller of the soil. He came to this country with his father, and in early 
colonial days settled in Thompson, Conn., and the latter was one of the signers of 
the Declaration of lodepeudence. To Rev. Arthur A. and Jerusha N. Koss three 
sons and one daughter were born: Spaulding N. , who is living in Cincinnati, Ohio, 
was the cashier of a bank in that city for twenty-five years, but is now retired at the 
age of seventy-seven years; Mary E. (Mrs. Coe) is a resident of New York City; 
William R., and Hiram Augustus, who took up a sea-faring life in 1849 and followed 
it for four years. The vessel in which he sailed on his last voyage was shipwrecked 
on the coast of the Cannibal Islands, in the Pacific ocean, and the ill-fated crew were 
murdered and eaten by the savages. William R. Ross is the third of this family 
and until he was twenty-one years of age he made his home under the shelter of the 
parental roof, his education being acquired in private schools. Upon attaining his 
majority he was united in marriage with Miss Juliett Warner, of Natick, R. I. 
She was born in Connecticut in IS'26 to Christopher S. and Sallie (Greene) 
Warner, his father being a descendant of Roger Williams, of Providence, R. I., and 
her mother a direct descendant of Gen. Nathaniel Greene, of Rhode Island. The 
union of Mr. and Mrs. Ross took place in 1848, and fourteen months later Mr. Ross 
crossed the Isthmus of Panama on his way to the gold fields of California, he and 
the members of his party being the first white men to cross the narrow strip of 
land. In accomplishing this they went up Chagres River in a canoe, a distance of 
about forty miles, and there made their way on foot across the mountains, following 
an old Spanish trail to the city of Panama, of Panama Bay. After reaching the 
El Dorado of the west he followed gold digging for about three months, fourteen or 
fifteen hours a day being devoted to this work. He then began working at the 
carpenter's trade, which he had previously learned, and during his stay in San 
Francisco received from §12 to 820 per day for his services, accumulating a snug 
little sum during the two years that he devoted to this work. While he was in the 
mining district at Hang Town, Cal. , he paid for provisions as follows: Flour $1.50 
per pound, pork SI. 50 per pound, molasses §15 per gallon, saleratus 16 per pound, 
onions §50 per busliel, potatoes §50 per bushel, and whisky 500 per cent, above par. 
He worked fourteen hours a day and did not make enough to pay for his board, 
while the next man to him made his §500 per day. Thus it was in the days of gold- 
digcrintr. He left the mines bare-footed and bare-headed and walked fiftv miles in 
one day, swimming several streams and having nothing to eat but pine burrs and 
nothing to drink but good cold mountain water until he reached Sacramento, his desti- 
nation. His return trip from Sau Francisco to Panama was made on an old iron- 
screw steamer, and the last three weeks of the voyage were marked by many hard- 
ships. Rations were very short, and four dry and worm eaten crackers were given 
to each person once a day and the water that they had was only obtained when it 
rained, by catching what water they could in bed-blankets and wringing them dry 
in tubs. After this state of affairs had lasted for about three weeks they arrived at 
Coco Island, which was uninhabited, but there they found plenty of fresh water and 
numerous monkeys which served them for food. They remained there for about 
ten days waiting for the mail steamer from Panama to San Francisco and when it 
came by they obtained from it enough pork and crackers to last them until they 
reached Panama. Upon his return home Mr. Ross went to Norwicb, Conn., where 
he engaged in the sash, door and blind business, which he followed for four years, 
then went to Winona, Minn., where he devoted his attention to the same line of 
work until the opening of the Civil war. He at once showed his patriotism by en- 
listing in Company D. Minnesota Cavalry, in 1862, as a private and in the spring of 
1864 was made captain of the company and was mustered out in the spring of 1866 
at Fort Snelliug. Minu. He was at Fort Snelling. Minn., in the border service. 
After returning home he went to Arkansas, where he took contracts for building 
levees that had been destroyed during the war, a business he followed two years. He 
next went to New Orleans and took United States contracts for surveying the city 



MEMOIliS OF INDIASA. 511 

and the parish of New Orleans. Two years later he went to Chicago and seven 
years were there devoted to the carpenter's trade, but from there he went to War- 
ren Center, St. Joseph Co., Ind. , in 1877, and on a farm of 200 acres, located seven 
miles west of South Bend, he has since made his home. He is a Knight Templar in 
the Masonic fraternity, which order he joined in Winona, Minn. , in 1867. He is also 
a member of Auten Post, South Bend, Ind., G. A. R. He is an honest and up- 
right citizen, believes in the commandment to "Do unto others as you would that 
they should do unto you." although not a member of any church. His wife is a 
member of the Baptist Church. He cast his first presidential vote for Franklin 
Pierce and ever siace the Civil war has affiliated with the Republican party, but was 
previously a Democrat. He takes pride in assisting in all public enterprises and is 
public-spirited, liberal and high-minded. His entire career has been honorable and 
upright, and although liviug in the West when it was invested by lawless and desper- 
ate men, he ever conducted himself in an upright manner, and is in every way worthy the 
respect in which he is held. He is the father of three children who are living: Ella 
E., wife of C. F. Brenan, a printer of Chicago; Lillie, at home, and Cora, wife of 
George Witter, Jr., a farmer. They have one child deceased. Capt. Ross' 
grandmother, Jerusha Cook, was from Rhode Island. 

Calvin C. Lando.v. Among the sons of Vermont who brought with them to this 
western land the sturdy habits of independence, integrity aud industry which have 
ever marked the "Green Mountain boys," we are gi-atitied to be able to name Mr. 
Landon, whose fine farm of 210 acres is among the best of Elkhart county, Ind. He 
possesses those advanced ideas aud progressive principles regarding agricultural 
life, which seem to be among the chief characteristics of the average native Ver- 
monter, and in every walk of life he has conducted himself in an honorable and up- 
right manner. Mr. Landon was born in Rutland county, Vt.. July 27, 1824, and 
is a son of Calvin and Abigail (Smith) Landon, the former a native of Rutland 
county, Vt. , and the latter of Hampshire county, Mass. When but a small lad Cal- 
vin C. Landon was taken by his parents to the State of New York and there he was 
left without the tender and watchful care of a mother when only five years of age. 
After her death his father married again, his second marriage being to Miss Mary 
E. Marsh. On account of failing health the father went to the seashore in 1837 
with the hope of deriving some benefit from the salt breeze, and there he received 
his final summons. After the death of his father our subject went to Massachusetts 
to live with relatives, who afterward removed to New York where young Landon 
lived until 1854. Led by the promises of the prairies of the West he turned his face 
toward the setting sun and made no settlement until reaching the State of Indiana. 
He located in Elkhart county, where he purchased land, antl there he has made his 
home ever since. The most notable event in the life of the young man was his 
marriage in Elkhart county, July 22, 1S55, with Miss Margaret Brown, who was 
born October 6, 1833. She was the daughter of Solomon M. and Sarah (Ketcham) 
Brown. The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Landon, viz.: 
Clematus V. , born May 17, 1856, married William F. Wahl, and Oliver J., born 
May 14, 1861. Mrs. Landon died December 26, 1891. She was a lady of much 
culture aud refinement, and was highly esteemed by all. Mr. Landon has been a 
hard-working man, and what he has accumulated has Ijeen the fruits of his indus- 
try and good management. About 1875 he noticed his eyesight beginning to fail, 
and for ten or twelve years he has been unable to read or drive about. At present 
he is almost totally blind. Although he has met with this great misfortune Mr. 
Landon bears it with a great deal of fortitude, but it is a great blow nevertheless. 
His son Oliver has entire charge of the farm of 210 acres, twenty acres of which are 
in timber, and is a wide awake, industrious young man. He was married December 
25, 1884, to Miss Grace M. Shreiner, who was born December 14, 1867. They have 
three children as follows: George C, born Februar)' 11, 1886; Ai'chie B., born 
February 14, 1888: Clarence C, born October 1, 1890; Alvin Landon, born Novem- 



512 PICTOHIAl. A2{D BIOGIIAPIIICAL 

ber 8, 1892. Like bis father Oliver voices the platform and declarations of the 
Democratic party, and in general matters he is in favor of anything which will im- 
prove the condition of the county and elevate social life. 

Hon. Is.\.\c Bl.\ckford has made a greater impression upon the Supreme Court of 
Indiana than any man who ever sat upon the bench. Coming to the bench Septem- 
ber 10, 1817, he continued until January 3, 1853 — a period covering the entire 
existence of the old court, with the exception of the first few months after its crea- 
tion. He succeeded Judge Johnson. He sat longer on the bench than any other 
man, and daring that time made his name bj' his untiring accuracy and exact learn- 
ing, familiar on two continents. Blackford was born at Round Brook, N. J., Novem- 
ber 6, 1786. His father was a native of England, and died when Isaac was in bis 
teens. At sixteen he entered Princeton College in a class of thirty-four, and among 
his classmates were three who became governors of States, three United States sen- 
ators, and four judges of supreme courts. Blackford excelled in Latin and Greek, 
delighted in books, was proficient in astronomy and the higher mathematics, and in 
his senior year read Blackstone. He read law at Morristown with Gabriel Ford, 
walked to the Allegheny River because of a lack of means to pay stage fare, and in 
181 1 camo to Indiana, resuming his legal studies at Brookville. He later served as 
cashier of the Vevay branch of the Territorial Bank, and not long afterward edited 
a paper in Viucennes, lud. In 1813 he became the first clerk and recorder of 
Washington county, and in December of the same year was elected clerk of the 
House of Representatives. He was re-elected the following August, but resigned on 
being appointed presiding judge of the First Circuit, a position be held until Jan- 
uary, 1861. On his thirty-first birthday he was elected representative from Knox 
county, and on the organization of the first State Legislature was chosen speaker 
without 0])po3itiou. "His great fairness and unyielding integrity and natural fit- 
ness," said Senator James Noble, "won the respect and hearty good-will of us all, 
and we couldn't find it in our hearts to oppose him." Ten months later he was 
appointed judge of the Supreme Court. While a man of no great breadth of mind, 
of superior mental calibre, his bump of caution was so abnormally developed that he 
would never do any guessing; but, on the contrary, never passed an opinion unless 
be absolutely knew that be was right. He was emphatically a book jndge. In 1824 
be was an elector on the Adams ticket; in 1832 he voted for Clay; in 1836 be cast 
his ballot for Van Buren and was ever afterwards a Democrat. In 1825 he was de- 
feated by James Ray for governor, the respective votes being 10,418 to 13,040. The 
winter of 1825-6 be was defeated for the United States senatorship by William 
Hendricks, who had but one vote the majority. In 1855, under the appointment of 
President Pierce, he was appointed judge of the United States Court of 
Claims, a position be retained until bis death, December 31. 1859. This sketch was 
compiled from a biography pulilished in the Green Bag of May, 1892. 

Edw.vrd W. Walioir is justly deserving the recognition of being the most exten- 
sive manufacturer of Goshen, as well as one of its best known citizens. Born Sep- 
tember 2, 1831, at Logan, Hocking Co.. Ohio, he was brought to Elkhart county, 
Ind., in 1835, by bis parents, who engaged in farming in Middlebury township for 
several years, and later removed across the line to Eden township. La Grange Co. 
Both the father and grandfather of Edward W. Walker bore the name of Thomas, 
and were natives of Yorkshire, England. Thomas Walker, Sr., and bis four sons 
were horse shoers, a trade usually confounded with blacksmitbing and yet entirely 
different. In 1819 the family immigrated to the United States, being influ- 
enced to do so by a brother of the elder Walker, and by the father of the subject 
of this sketch, who bad preceded them. They located at Athens, where the father 
and youngest son engaged in blacksmitbing; the other sons locating at other points 
where they deemed they could do best. It was at Athens that the elder Walker 
died. Thomas Walker, Jr., father of Edward W., settled in Hocking county, Ohio, 
where he carried on farming and blacksmitbing conjointly. He married Elizabeth 



MEMOIRS OF iyi)IA.\A. 513 

Harman, a native of Yorkshire. England, whose parents settled at McConnellsville, 
Ohio, in 1818, and in the year 1835 immigrated westward for the purpose of improving 
their condition. The father died at his home, not many miles from Middlebury, in 
La Grange county, in 1S4S. followed by his widow in 1870. They were the parents 
of ten children, eight of whom are yet living. Edward \V. was the fifth born in 
this family. His early years were passed upon the home farm, assisting his parents 
in the work of backwoods life, and attending the pioneer subscription schools. He 
later attended the LaGrange Collegiate Ins-titute, an educational institution at On- 
tario, La Grange Co., well remembered by the old settlers, which has long since 
gone the way of all earthly things, as well as the town in which it was located. 
When nineteen years old he began learning the millwright's trade, but later worked 
at the carpenter's trade. When twenty-two he opened a stock of merchandise with 
his brother- in-law. C. Stutz. at Middlebury and sold goods there eight years, then, 
until 1870, handled stock — mostly sheep — and dealt in real estate. He moved to 
Goshen in 1866, and laid the foundation of his present business in 1870. He first 
began manufacturing agricultural implement wheels, which then began to come in 
vogue, but later branched out into making wheelbarrows, wood pumps, etc. At no 
particular time has his business been affected with what is called ''booms." It 
has simply reflected what its management has been. The idea of Mr. AN'aJker has 
all along been to do a conservative business, to do what he did do honestly and in 
first class order. The result has been a substantial and steady increase from its 
very inception. Besides this he is head of the company comprising himself and 
nephew, Edward E. Stutz, in the manufacture of carriages. He is also president 
of the Goshen Folding Bed Co., being its largest stockholder, and was one of the 
founders of the City National bank of Goshen, established in ]87'2, and has contin- 
uously been one of its directors since its organization. In his various interests Mr. 
Walker gives employment to from 175 to 200 men, and his average annual sales now 
amount to §250,000. While an ardent Republican in politics. Mi-. Walker aspires to 
no political preferment. January 19, 1859, he was united in marriage with Miss 
Hannah M. Brown, daughter of Benjamin and Hannah (Fields) Brown. No children 
have ever been liorn to this union, but the Christian charity of Mr. and Mrs. 
Walker has been exemplified in their adoption of a child. Laura Dayton. This 
child was received by them an infant, and l)eing deprived of children of their own, 
they lavished on this child all the love and care which their generous hearts could 
bestow. When life seemed brightest, when upon the threshold of womanhood, lack- 
ing three months of being seventeen years old, their hearts were crushed l)y the shad- 
owy hand of death, and their daughter, by adoption, was called to a home in the In- 
finite. Both Mr. and Mrs. Walker are members of the Presbyterian Church. 

John S. Smith (deceased). It is with true interest that the biographer takes up 
his pen to speak of those worthy citizens whose active lives have ceased on earth 
but whose influence extends still and will continue to extend among all who knew 
them. Mr. John S. Smith was born in Alsace, France, now Prussia, Ger- 
many, in the latter part of December, 1800, and was a son of George Smith. 
Our subject crossed the ocean to America in the spring of 1828, and was six weeks on 
the trip to New York City. After reaching that city he went up the Hudson to 
Albany and then via Erie Canal came to Buffalo, from Buffalo by schooner to Cleve- 
land, from there by wagon to Canton, Stark county, Ohio, when there were but three 
houses in the town. His son, George A., has a saw that was used in the erection of 
the first house in Canton. After residing a year in town John S. Smith moved nine 
miles north, purchased thirteen acres of land and two years later purchased thirteen 
acres more. In 1837 he crossed to Elkhart county, Ind., by ox team, was three 
■weeks on the road and was one week in getting through Maumee Swamp, a distance 
of thirty miles, this being considered fast traveling for those days. He located on 
the northwest half of northwest quarter of Section 27, Cleveland township, and 
erected a log cabin in the wilderness. Although the land was wild upon which he 



514 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

settled, and the implements Le used rude and unhandy, the soil was ricb, and as 
the work of clearing progressed and the crops were put in, it yielded a good 
return. He bad eighty acres to start with and he afterward purcliased addi- 
tional land at different periods. He was married in France in 1828 to Miss Anna 
Hessig and the following children were born to this union: John H., resides in 
Mahaska county, Iowa, where be settled in 1850; Margaret, resides in Cass county, 
Mich., and is the wife of Michael Hoover; Catherine (deceased); Christian, and 
Anna (deceased). Mr. iSmith was among the first settlers of this township, and 
here he labored on the farm until his death, on October 29, 1879. His wife sur- 
vived him until May 29, 1892, making her home with her sou, George A., after 
the death of her husband. She was an invalid during the last four years of her 
life. A brother of our subject, George, who was twenty years his senior, was in 
the army under Napoleon, but being wounded when about to start to Moscow, was 
released. He came to America with his brother, John S. , and settled in Stark 
county; in 1835 he came to Elkhart county, where he died in January, 1864, 
when seventy-five years of age. George A., son of John S. and Anna (Hessig) 
Smith, was born in Stark county, Ohio, October 5, 1832. When nearly five years 
of age he came with his parents to Elkhart county, Cleveland township, which was 
an unbroken forest at that time. He distinctly remembers the privations and 
hardships of those pioneer days, and at an early age became thoroughly familiar 
with hard labor. He received his education in the common schools of the county and 
later entered a seminary at New Berlin, Penn., where he remained for two years. He 
was married December 4, 1863, to Miss Susan Eyer, a native of Pennsylvania, and 
the daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Eyer, natives of Lancaster, Penn., where they 
both died at an advanced age. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been born four 
children: Albert H. , Wesley E., Anna B. and Clara E. Mrs. Smith's death occurred 
September, 1, 1883, after a lingering sickness of nearly a year. Mr. Smith's sec- 
ond marriage occurred September 14, 1884, to Miss Mary Kelley, a native of Elk- 
hart county, Ind. , born April 22, 1858, and the daughter of Urs Kelley, a native 
of Switzerland. One child, Clifton C, has been born to this union. Mr. Smith 
has 284 acres of land, forty-five acres of which are timber land, and has a very 
fine brick residence, excellent out-buildings, etc. He is a member of the Farmer's 
Association and he and Mrs. Smith are members of the Evangelical Church. He 
is a strong Prohibitionist in politics. 

BnscH & Rensberger. The name of this firm is a passport to popular favor 
and has become prominent in the general mercantile trade, during the three years 
that it has been in existence. It was established in February, 1889, Ijy H. W. 
Bunch and C. S. Rensberger, who bought out W. S. Clark, who had for about thir- 
teen years prior to that time successfully conducted a general mercantile business. 
The young blood that has been infused into the enterprise has been the means of 
making it one of the most successful mercantile houses of the count)', and the amount 
of business now being done annually reaches the $25,000 mark. The stock is 
exceptionally large and well selected, and will compare favorably with that of any 
similar establishment in the southern part of the county. Mr. Rensberger was born 
in Liberty township, this county, December 30, 1863, the eldest of six children liorn 
to Moses and Anna (Deetz) Rensberger, the former of whom was born in Holmes 
county, Ohio, in 1848, a son of Jacob Rensberger, who was a Pennsylvanian and an 
early pioneer of Ohio, who, about 1860, took up his residence on a farm in Liberty 
township, St. Joseph county, Ind., where he died about 1872. His wife also died 
in this county. All the members of their family, consisting of nine children, are 
still living. Moses Rensberger was a young man when he came to this section, was 
married here, and is still residing on his farm in Liberty township. He is a Repub- 
lican in politics and has ever been very public-spirited. Their children are as 
follows: Clarence S., a member of the above-mentioned firm; Lester, who is clerking 
for his brother; Alice, who is the wife of Charles Fruitz; Eli; Lloyd and Ezra. The 



MEMOIRS OF IXniAyA. 515 

mctber was bom in Holmes county, Ohio, the daughter of Jacob Deetz, who were 
Pennsylvaniaus by birth, and early Ohio pioneers. Mrs. Rensberger became a resi- 
dent of Indiana in 1855, and in this State is still living. Clarence S. Rensberger 
was educated in the district schools, and at the same time assisted his father on the 
farm until about twenty years of age, when he went West to see the country and while 
there clerked for some time in a store. In February, 1889, he engaged in his pres- 
ent business and the success which has attended his efforts thus far in his mercan- 
tile career speaks in an eloquent manner as to his excellent business qualifications. 
He has always been actively interested in politics and is a stanch Republican. H. 
W. Bunch is a product of St. Joseph county, Ind., his birth having occurred 
in Union township, May 28, 1860, a son of Americus Bunch, who was born in 
North Carolina in 1829. He is one of two surviving members of a family of 
eleven children, of which he was the eldest but one. His early life was spent on a 
woodland farm, and from his thrifty and industrious parents he learned habits of 
industry and honesty that have been his stepping-stones to success. He attended 
school in the district near his home, and when he became old enough took up various 
duties on the farm. At the age of nineteen he began working in the store in which 
he is now interested, but after a few years gave up this line of work to take a trip 
West, during which time he saw considerable of the country. In 1880 he entered 
college at Valparaiso, Ind. , after leaving which he became a "Hoosier school master," 
and was a successful educator of Marshall county for six months. Following this he 
clerked in the store for W. S. Clark for some "time, then he and Mr. Rensberger 
became the proprietors of their present establishment and have built up a paying 
trade. He is a public-spirited man and politically is a Democrat. December 1, 
1888, he was married to Miss Emma Kern, daughter of Adam and Catherine 
(Winklesprek) Kern. She was born on the old Kern homestead, in Union town- 
ship, this county, December 1, 1805, and has borne her husband the following 
children: Glenn, "born February 9, 1890, and Alice M., born February 11, 1892. 
Mr. and Mrs. Bunch are among the highly honored residents of the section in which 
they reside. 

Mrs. Saeah Watkins. The widow of John C. Watkins is a wide-awake lady of 
much intelligence, and she is now residing on the farm which she assisted her hus- 
band in locating and clearing upon their first arrival in the Hoosier State. John C. 
Watkins was born in Richmond, Va., February 22, 1811, and was a son of Reisler 
Watkins, who inherited good old Dutch blood of his ancestors. At the age of five 
years John C. Watkins was taken to Ohio and in that State resided with his parents 
until he attained his twenty-first year. He then determined to "try his wings" and 
in a blacksmith's shop of the neighborhood, he thoroughly learned the details of 
that calling. He was shortly after united in marriage with Miss Sarah Kolars, a 
German by descent, and for nineteen years thereafter he supported his family by 
means of the hammer and anvil. In 1851 he came with his family to the territory 
of Indiana and for some time resided on 156 acres of woodland in St. Joseph county, 
which he endeavored to improve, but also gave much of his attention to his trade. 
Later he abandoned his trade and up to the day of his death his attention was given 
solely to tilling the soil, which occupation was congenial to his tastes and proved a 
profitable source of revenue, after the first few years of hard work, in which he was 
gaining a start, were over. While a resident of Tuscarawas county, Ohio, he was 
superintendent of the County Poor Farm for some time. From the time he was fif- 
teen years of age he kept the faith in the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he 
was a devout member when he paid the last debt of nature on November 13, 1879. 
His widow resides on the home farm, which she conducts in an admirable manner 
through renters. She is proving herself a good business woman, and as a friend 
and neighbor is considered generous, kind and accommodating, She bore her hus- 
band fourteen children; Hezekiah, who died while serving his country in the Union 
army; Louisa; Adam; Rosetta; George W.; Hiram L. ; Hester; De , who 



516 I'lVTillUAL AM) niocHM'lIICAL 

diet! ill infancy; Ezra; Euieline. who died in infancy: Hmisou ]\I. ; Catherine L. ; 
Sarali and Mary A. Mrs. Watkins and her husband took a baby boy to raise when 
be was only eight days old, and cared for hiiu until he attained manhood. He sub- 
sequently died in the army. Her children are now living in Iowa, Kansas and Indi- 
ana and are an honor to the mother who bore them. 

Jo.\ATH.\N W. Nickels is a prosperous general merchant of Lakeville, Ind., who 
keeps a well-stocked establishment and by energy and fair dealing has built up a 
prosperous liusiness. He was born iu Marion county, Ohio, January 19, IS")!, 
being tlie youngest in a family of eight children boiii to Jonathan and Martha 
(Shuey) Nickels, the former of whom was born in Wheeling, W. Va., in 1803, and 
died at the age of tifly-two years in Marion county, Ohio. He was among the tirst 
pioneers of that State and made himself and family a comfortable home in the woods 
where he spent a useful, honorable and upright life. In addition to clearing his 
farm and tilling his land he followed the callings of a carpenter and architect, at 
which he was an adept, his ability receiving public recognition when it fell to him 
to draw up the plans for the new State House at Columbus, in 1849. He made his 
home at iMarion, Ohio, for a number of years, during which time he devoted himself 
exclusively to contracting and tlrawing up plans and specilicatious for different 
buildings. In politics he was an old line Whig, was very public spiiited, had a 
wide acquaintance in the section in which he lived and wherever known was highly 
respected. He was married in Ohio to Miss Shuey, who was born in Harrisburg, 
Penn., in 1810, a daughter of John and Margaret Shuey, who were old-time Penn- 
sylvanians of German stock. The grandfather, John Shuey, lived to the patriarchal 
age of one hundred and four years and died near Logansport, Ind., in 1864. When 
he was one hundred years of age he walked four miles to the polls to vote for 
Abraham Lincoln for the presidency. He was a strong Republican and a man who 
possessed many noble qualities. The grandmother lived to be ipiite aged also and 
died iu In<liana, on the farm which the grandfather entered on coming to this State 
in early times. Mrs. Nickels, the mother of the subject of this sketch, died in 1859 
in Fulton county, at which time she was a member of the Baptist Church. She 
became the mother of eight children, all of whom lived to reach maturity, only one 
being now deceased. The eldest was Caroline wiio married Samuel Smith and died 
leaving four children; Edwin, the nest, married Elizabeth Smith and is living in 
Fulton county, Ind.; Mariam (Mrs. Tuckei) is living at Logansport, Ind., and has 
three children; Willfam W. lives at Kewanna, is a prosperous farmer and has live 
children; George W. is also in Fulton county, was one of the first to enlist in the 
service of his country during the Civil war, becoming a member of Company B, Sixty- 
fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded in battle, losing his right arm at 
Chickamanga in the last volley tired (he was a participant in seventeen hard-fought 
battles, among which may be mentioned Stone River, Missionary Ridge, Bull Rnn, Shi- 
loh, Corinth, Iuka,and the Wilderness; he held the rank of sergeant; he is now a farmer 
of Fulton county, is married to Sarah Buntain and is the father of six children); 
Mariah is tlie wife of John Buntain. resides in Loganspoit, Ind., and is the mother 
of four children; Jonathan W. : Martha is the wife of Louis Mnllins, has five children, 
of Fulton county. Jonathan ^V. Nickels was a boy of five years when the family 
came to Indiana, and at the age of eight years he was left an orphan, his father and 
mother both having died, and for some time thereafter he made his home with 
friends. However, at an early day he started to make his own way in the world, 
and by his own exertions not only supplied himself with the necessaries of life but 
also managed to attend the district schools a sufficient length of time each year to 
acquire a good practical business education, up to the time he was sixteen years of 
age. He then w-orked at ditching for several years, after which he took up the car- 
penter's trade, at which he worked six years. In 1870 he came to Lakeville, where 
he has since made his home. In ISSOhe opened a general mercantile establishment 
and received the appointment of postmaster under President Cleveland, which he 



MfiMOTIlS OF IMJIASA. 517 

held four years. He Las conducted bis mercantile business with remarkable suc- 
cess, has a large patronage and is highly regarded in the mercantile circles of the 
county. In 1889 he was elected to the ijosition of township trustee on the Democrat 
ticket and ran considerably ahead of his ticket. He is a member of the A. F. & 
A. M., Lakeville Lodge, No. 353, and is a well posted man on the general topics of 
the day. In 1871 he was married to Miss Ellen Hardy, a daughter of John and 
Sarah Hardy, who came to this section in an early day from Pennsylvania, and 
settled in Lakeville. They reared a family of ten children: Mary, Amanda, Avilla, 
Matilda, Ellen, Amelia. Fernando, Albert, Edward and Nettie. Mrs. Nickels was 
born December 25, 1847, in Union township, this county, and her union with Mr. 
Nickels has resulted in the birth of eight children, five of whom are living: War- 
ren, born in 1872 and died at the age of two and a half years; Carrie M., born in 
1873, September 10; Willard, born in 1875 and died at the age of two and a half 
years: Marshall was born August 2(1, 1877: Omar was born February 24, 1879; 
Ethel was liorn February 14, 1881, and died October 15, 1888: Clarence was born 
May 6, 1884, and Oren was born Maich 30, 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Nickels are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which Mrs. Nickels has been con- 
nected since she was fourteen years of age. Mr. Nickels is decidedly public spir- 
ited, is interested in educational work and expects to give his children good advan- 
tages. 

Hos. John H. Lesh. There is an obscurity in the game of life that, to the ro- 
bust mind, is always attractive. The important uncertainty of the final outcome, 
its value to all, serves as an incentive to great deeds. To push forward and win the 
battle is the one common impulse and ambition of humanity. But in this vast 
concourse of struggling warriors, the numlier who achieve success is compar- 
atively small, and in the majority of instances is confined to those who by reason 
of family inheritance or extended learning, have a far better start than their fel- 
lows. Without these qualifications success is rarely attained, but when it is the 
fortunate being is invariably the po.ssessor of an indomitable will, untiring energy 
and an unusual amount of native shrewdness and ability. Such a man is John H. 
Lesh, the subject of this sketch. A native of Ohio, his birth occurred in Mont- 
gomery county, March 19, 184G, being a son of Joseph and Margaret Lesh, the 
mother's maiden name being Leslie. The family moved to Wabash county, Ind., 
in 1850. and there both parents died. The father was a farmer, conservative in all 
his dealings, honest in every sense of the word, wise and brave and distinguished 
among his fellow-men. He died November 14, 1891, preceded by his wife in 
March, 1866. Of the five children born to them all are living save the eldest. John 
H. Lesh was reared to hard work on the home farm, and when twenty years of 
age was told by his father that, inasmuch as he was unable to give him a start in 
financial matters, he could then start for himself and not remain at home until 
twenty-one. Up to this time his schooling was so limited that he could Ijarely 
read and do a little figuring; but subsequent events rendered it absolutely neces- 
sary that he should be better qualified in this respect, and he accordingly applied 
himself, with the result that through his own efforts he has acquired a practical 
knowledge of the common branches of education. For seven years after starting 
out for himself he found employment as a day and monthly laborer, and during this 
time had accumulated a team of horses, some household goods, and what was both 
more interesting and important, a wife and two children. The year 1873 was the 
important epoch in the financial career of Mr. Lesh. Prior to this time he had 
worked as hard at farming and kindred employments as was possible for a man to 
work, and after seven years he was but little better off than when he started. 
This was discouraging in the extreme. He concluded to try lumbering as a means 
of bettering his condition. Investing a few dollars which he had saved in some 
live timber, he cut the trees down, carted the logs to a neighboring saw-mill, con- 
verted the logs into Ijoards, and when this lumber was sold he found his original 



518 PICTORIAL AND BlOd IIAPIIICAL 

investment had been multiplied bj- seven. Moving^ at once to North Manchester, 
he turned bis entire attention to the lumber trade, aud so successful were his efforts 
that four years Ister an inventory disclosed that he had accumulated $15,000. This 
was a great deal of money, but untiring energy, shrewd management and clcse at- 
tention to business had brought him a just reward. North Manchester then prov- 
ing too limited a lield for his labors, he established a lumber office in Chicago; bat 
desiring to live at Goshen, a place he had always admired, he moved his family to 
this place iu order to get better railroad transportation to where his business was 
located. Goshen has ever since been his home. After two years' profitable trans- 
action in lumber at Chicago he closed out, and invested his cajjital, amounting to 
about $'20,000, iu a like business at Goshen. Evidently Mr. Lesh was particularly 
adapted to all the intricacies of the lumber trade, for from the very beginning he 
has been successful. The business of John H. Lesh & Co., of Goshen, was estab- 
lished l)y Mr. Lesh, and he was always the manager and chief mover of the firm. 
Through his efforts the business as John H. Lesh & Co. was successful for nine 
years. By him the firm was dissolved. Mr. Lesh is president of the firm of Lesh, 
Sanders & Egbert Co., Goshen, having a cajntal and surplus of $125,000 and doing 
an average annual business of $400,000; is president of Lesh, Prouty & Abbott 
Company, capital and surplus $110,000, of East Chicago, dealers iu black walnut 
lumber, doing a yearly business of $300,000, and is president of the Rock River 
Stock Farm, having a capital of $15,000. He is the owner of considerable real 
estate in different places — one tract near Goshen being as finely an improved piece 
of land as there is in the State. He owns sixteen acres of Chicago suburban prop- 
erty which has a market value of $30,000; about 1,255 acres of southern lands and 
beside is a director in the City National Bank, of Goshen. He owns, at Goshen, 
the handsomest and most costly residence in Elkhart county. Mr. Lesh originally 
had as good a constitution as mortal man usually possesses, but the immense amount 
of bard work he has gone through with has unquestionably impaired his health, al- 
though not to any serious extent. Remembering the time when he was a boy, strug- 
gling with the adversities of life, he has been the most liberal of employers and has 
overextended a helping hand to the worthy. Perhaps no man in Goshen possesses 
more friends than John H. Lesh. Unsolicited on his part he received the Repub- 
lican nomination for mayor of Goshen by acclamation in 1890, and after serving 
one term positively declined a renomiuation. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., 
K. of P. and Masonic fraternities. 

John Stewart. When a citizen of worth and character has departed from this 
life, it is meet that those who survive him should keep in mind his life work, and 
should hold up to the knowledge and emulation of the young his virtues and the 
characteristics which distinguished him and made him worthy of the esteem of his 
neighbors. We, therefore.- present to our readers a narrative of the life of the rep- 
resentative pioneer whose name we have just given. This highly esteemed aud 
eminently useful member of society was a native of the Keystone State, born in 
Dauphin county, January 13, 1807. There he grew to manhood and learned the 
weaver's trade, which was his principal occupation during his early years at Harris- 
burg, although he lived with his parents on a farm. Later in life he purchased a 
farm, but continued to devote most of his attention to his trade. He was married 
in March, 1832, to Miss Margaret Rudy, who was liorn May 20, 1811, and five chil- 
dren were the fruits of this union, viz. : Margaret, married and resides in Nebraska; 
Samuel; John; David; and Matilda, married, resides in Nebraska. The three sons 
served in the Civil war. In 1850 Mr. Stewart emigrated to Indiana and settled in 
Cleveland township, Elkhart county, on the farm where his son John now resides, 
in June of that year. He became the owner of 150 acres of land aud was a man 
universally respected. He and Mrs. Stewart were members of the Evangelical 
Church, and his death, which occurred on January 7, 1880. was the occasion of uni- 
versal sorrow, for all felt the loss to be sustained by the departure of such a man. 



MEMOIRS OF INUFAXA. 519 

His wife survived him until July 20, 1882. Their son, David Stewart, was born in 
Dauphin county, Penn. , March J, 1842, and when he was about eight years of age 
he came with his parents to Indiana, where he finished his growth and received a 
good, practical education in the district school. In 1866 he was united in marriage 
to Miss Catherine Thomas, a native of Ohio, born February 22, 1843, and the daugh- 
ter of John and (Mathias) Thomas, natives of the Buckeye State also. Her 

parents settled in Elkhart county in 1865, and here the father died, but the mother 
passed the closing scenes of her life in Michigan. To Mr. and Mrs. Stewart were 
given the following children: Albertus, married Eleanor Peabody and resides in 
Elkhart; Alvertus, twin of Albertus, is at home; Ida M. and Melvin Mearl. Mr. 
Stewart has about one hundred and thirty-five acres of land, about ten acres in 
timber, and is engaged in general farming and stockraising. In February, 1865, 
he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Fifty-second Indiana Volunteer In- 
fantry, and served until cessation of hostilities. His two older brothers were also 
in the army and he could not leave home until their return. He was discharged at 
Charleston, W. Ya., August 30, 1865. In politics he is a stanch adherent of Repub- 
lican principles. 

John Moore, M. D., has been a close student of his profession and in his mission 
of "healing the sick" his generous treatment of his patients, his liberality and kind- 
ness of heart, have won for him not the respect alone, but the earnest regard of '.he 
large clientele which he has gathered around him. The family physician, he 
becomes also in scores of cases the family adviser in matters of business and affairs 
other than of a professional nature. He was born in Holmes county, Ohio, August 
3, 1836, the fifth of nine children born to John G. and Margery (Miller) Moore, the 
former of whom was born in the Isle of Erin, August 8, 1808, a son of Gabriel 
Moore, who came to this country in 1813 and settled in Holmes county, Ohio, where 
he died at an early day, being about sixty-five years of age. His widow attained the 
advanced age of ninety years. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. John G. was one of their five children, the other members of the family 
being William, who died unmarried, Mary A., Eliza and Jane. Mary A. married 
William Kelley and reared a family at Fostoria, Ohio. Eliza married J. M. De 
Havan and Jane married Hiram Walgamot of Holmes county, Ohio. John G. 
Moore was about five years old at the time of his parents' settlement in Ohio and 
there he grew up on a farm and obtained his education in the district schools of the 
rural districts. He afterward followed the occupation of teaching for some time, 
but upon starting out to make his own way in the world, he took up the occupation 
to which he had been reared — that of farming. In early manhood he was married 
in Holmes county, his wife having been born in Westmoreland county, Penn., in 
1807, a daughter of Robert and Martha (Hewey) Miller, who were also Pennsylvani 
ana. The Millers removed to Holmes county during its very early history, and on a 
farm in that section they resided until their respective deaths, the grandfather 
being called from life when quite young and the grandmother when quite advanced 
in years. Their children were Margaret, Nancy, Isaac, Matthew, Robert and 
Martha. Isaac is the only member of this family that is living at the present time, 
his home being still in Holmes county, Ohio. After his marriage John G. Moore 
continued to reside in Ohio until the death of his wife in 1851, she having borne him 
nine children, one child dying at the age of four years. The other members of the 
family are: Robert, who is a prominent physician of Lakeville, Ind. ; Lucinda, who 
married Andrew Martin and died leaving three sons — John, James and Gilbert (John 
is a resident of Sterling, 111.; James is a resident of St. Louis, Mo., and Gilbert 
resides in Dixon, 111.); William, the next child of John G. Moore, died when four 
years old; Martha J. married Joseph Karnes, resides at Dixon, 111., and is the 
mother of three sons — Louis, Emanuel and Francis, and lost one daughter, Emma, 
who died in June, 1892; John, the subject of this sketch, comes next in order of 
birth; Margaret married Erral Uhl, died in Kansas in 1870, leaving two sons — Will- 



520 riC'JOHIM. AM) lUOCllM'IIICAL 

iam and Einra, the former of whom is a physician of Gardner, Kan., and the latter 
a dentist; Allen is a practicing physician of Marshall county, Ind., where he has 
resided for seventeen years. He graduated from the Fort Wayne Medical College, 
is a member of the Indiana Medical Association and has practiced that [)rofession for 
twenty yeais. He was married to Sarah Rutenson of St. Josej)h county. Politically 
he is a Prohibitionist and socially is a member of the A. F. & A. M. Eliza, the 
nest child, died at the age of nineteen years and Emma, the youngest of the family, 
married George Kelley and lives in Dixon, 111. She has one daughter, Mattie. In 
1865 John G. Moore became a resident of Harris townshiji, St. Joseph Co. , Ind., and 
after residing on a farm there for three years he moved to South Bend, where he 
died in June, 1SS3. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a man 
who took great interest in church work, was public spirited to a degree, and politically 
was a Democrat. After the death of his first wife he married a Mrs. Lisle, who is also 
dead. The early life of Dr. John Moore was spent in Holmes county, Ohio, but after 
coming to this county he spent two terms in teacliing school, after which he took up the 
study of medicine under the instruction of his brother Robert, l)ecoming soon fitted 
to enter college, which he ditl at Cleveland, Ohio, in 1860, from which he graduated. 
In 1861 he established himself at Lakeville, Ind., and since that time has been one 
of the active practitioners of that section. He is a member of the State Medical 
Association of South Bend, the St. Joseph County Medical Association and socially 
is a Knight Templar iu the A. F. & A. M. lodge of Lakeville, of which he is W. 
M. and is still holding the position, and politically the Doctor is a Democrat. He 
has taken much interest in all enterprises of a public character and is considered 
one of the most substantial and useful citizens of his section. The Doctor was first 
married on June 18, 1862, to Miss Harriet A. Johnson, a daughter of A. P. Johnson 
of South Bend. She was born July 19, 1842, and died in 1866, at the age of twenty- 
four years, at which time she was a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. The Doctor's second union took place December 31. 1867, Ellen, daughter 
of Jonathan and Eliza Cunningham, becoming his wife. Mr. Cunningham was killed 
by falling on the ice at Walkerton, Ind., but the mother is still living on a farm in 
Union township. Dr. Moore is the owner of an excellent farm of ninety acres south of 
Lakeville and also owns some tine residence property on South Main street, South Bend, 
and some iu Walkerton. He has always stooil high iu the estimation of his fellows 
and has numerous warm personal friends who not only prize his friendship, but also 
value his services as a physician. His wife is an active member of the W. C. T. U., 
is a woman of much intelligence and good judgment and is an enthusiastic worker in 
the Sunday school. 

E. D. Fair. Prominent in agricultural and social circles of Green township, St. 
Joseph Co., Ind., is E. D. Fair, whose birth occurred in Somerset county, Penn., 
December 9, 1827, his parents being Jacob and Eva (Deal) Fair, who became the 
parents of the following children: Clara, E. D.. Elizabeth, Lavina. Margaret, Joel 
J., Leah and Susannah. The father of these children was born in Somerset county, 
Penn., his father, Christopher Fair, having been born in Germany and during his 
early life came to this country, but eventually became a resident of Harris county, 
Ohio, to which region he removed in a two-hor.se wagon and where he purchased 
forty acres of land, at which time no improvements had been made thereon. He 
was extremely fond of the chase, and was an expert rifleman, many deer, bear and 
other wild animals falling victims to his skill while he was clearing his land. After 
the death of his wife his children found homes among kind neighbors, and eventually 
Mr. Fair married again, Elizabeth Davis lieeoming his wife and bearing him one 
child, whom they named Angeline. E. D. Fair, the immediate subject of this sketch, 
was reared in the then wilds of Ohio, and in the old-time log cabin, furnished with 
slab seats and other primitive furniture, he succeeded in obtaining a common school 
education. He attended school only during the winter, each term lasting about three 
months, but, notwithstanding these drawbacks, he made fair progress in his studies. 



MHMOins OF IXDIAXA. 521 

On March 9, 1851, lie was united iii marriage to Miss Susanna Barnett, and on Sep- 
tember 23, 1859, arrived in South Bend, Ind., and for three years thereafter resided 
on a rented farm on Turkey Creek Road. In 1868 he purchased 100 acres of the 
farm on which he now makes his home, at which time it was heavily covered with 
timber, and not a tree had been felled thereon. He erected a l)oard house iu which 
he lived contentedly until his circumstances were such as to permit him building a 
better habitation. He was always averse to holding office, and although at onetime 
elected to the office of justice of the peace, he emphatically refused to serve, much 
preferring to devote his time and attention to his farming interests, and as a conse- 
quence has been remarkably successful, being now the owner of 580 acres of line 
farming land, well cultivated and improved. Although he was reared a Democrat he 
has always supported the men and measures of the Republican party since the Civil 
war. His wife is of German-English descent, and has borne him the following chil- 
dren: Harvey D. (deceased), Elizabeth A., Leander, Cyrus (deceased), Alvilda A., 
Thomas M., Johu B., Rosa A. and Cora A. Thomas M. is iu a clothing store, Eliz- 
abeth married a gentleman engaged in the hardware business, and Rosa and Alvilda 
married farmers. Although Mr. Fair follows the teachings of the Golden Rule, 
supports worthy enterprises and believes in justice and right, he is not a member of 
any church. He is one of the substantial citizens of the county and has numerous 
friends. 

Hon. Henry D. Wilson, the oldest living member of the bar of Elkhart county 
now in active practice, and one of the ablest attorneys of northern Indiana, is a 
native of Champaign county, Ohio, born October 3, 1829. Thomas H. Wilson, a 
native of Peimsylvania, was his father. The grandfather came to the United States 
prior to the war for American independence. A farmer by occupation, Thomas H. 
Wilson immigrated westward early in the present century, settling tirst in Ohio, 
where he resided until 1830, when he again moved West, and this time found a home 
in southwestern Noble county, Ind. Being a man of more than ordinary intelligence, 
he was made one of the associate judges of the court, and afterward he was twice 
elected to the State Legislature. While living in Ohio he selected Mary Neal as his 
life helpmate, and of the eight children born to them six are yet living. Mr. Wil- 
son died February 7, 1870, iiis widow yet surviving him at the advanced age of 
ninety years. Henry D. Wilson obtained from the pioneer subscription schools his 
early book learning, but later attetided the Ontario Collegiate Institute, the State 
University at Bloomington, and Wabash College at Crawfordsville, graduating from 
the regular course of the last named institution in 1854. Having fitted himself for 
teaching, he followed that occupation for hve years. From 1854 to 1857 he was 
principal of the Female Seminary and the County Seminary, situated at Salem, Ind., 
l)ut resigned this position to accept the prineipalship of the Cascade Academy, at 
Cascade, Iowa. Ill health, caused by overwork, compelled his retirement after three 
years' service there, and, having previously read law, he returned to Indiana, and 
June 25, 1860, he entered into partnership with Hon. A. Y. Hooper, and embarked 
in legal practice at Columbia City, continuing in partnership and by himself at 
this i>lace until November, 1864. He then removed to Goshen, where he has ever 
since been in active practice, both alone and associated with some of the ablest law- 
vers of Goshen. At the present time he is the senior member of the firm of Wil.son, 
Davis & Wilson, composed of himself, Hon. W. J. Davis and his son Harry C. Wil- 
son. A close observer of persons and events, of dignified presence, an excellent judge 
of law, a close student and an eloquent and ready debater, Mr. Wil.son has for years 
been recognized as one of the foremost members of the legal fraternity in northern 
Indiana. In 1808 Mr. Wilson was elected the first mayor of the city of Goshen, 
doclitiing a reelection. Upon urgent solicitation, in 1890, he allowed his name to 
be piesented to the voters as the Repulilican nominee for Congress from the Thir- 
teenth District, but the tidal wave against his party, caused mainly by the recent 
enactment of the misunderstood tariff law, encompassed his defeat together with 



522 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPIIICAL 

hundreds of other Republican candidates. April 26, 1855, occurred his marriage 
with Miss Annjeannette Trumbull, at Fort Wayne, Ind. , the day following her grad- 
uation at college, and their children are: Viola A., wife of F. W. Nichols, principal 
of the Springer School of Chicago; Louise M., wife of C G. Beers, a business man 
of Chicago; Harry C, lawyer at Goshen; Clara J., wife of F. W. Wood, agent of the 
Chicago Varnish Company', with headquarters in New York City; Lawrence H. , 
agent of the Standard Oil Company at Racine, Wis. , and Weldon N. , deceased. 
Both Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. 
Wilson has been an elder for thirty-six years. 

John W. Irwin. Of the early settlers of northern Indiana who left homes of 
comfort in the East to brave the perils and hardships of pioneer life in the great 
West, who felled the forests and laid the foundations of plenty which the present 
generation now enjoy, but few are remaining. Occasionally one of these old 
frontiersmen is met with who has survived the storms and ravages of time, but his 
silvery locks and his faltering footsteps tell us that ere long he will "pass within 
that tent whose curtain never outward swings." In no way can the present gener- 
ation honor so well these old heroes of the early times as by imitating their virtues, 
and preserving inviolate the lessons guaranteed unto us in the civil, religious and 
educational institutions, founded and fostered by their wisdom and self sacrifice. 
Among the first to seek homes within the borders of what now constitutes Elkhart 
county, was the Irwin family. The pioneer was Alexander Irwin, a soldier of the 
War of 1812, and a son of Isaac Irwin of Franklin county, who was of Scotch-Irish 
ancestry, and one of the defenders of the colonies in their struggle for independence. 
The advent of the Irwins in this country was probably about the year 1750, and 
settling in Franklin county, they afterward removed to Allegheny county, Penn, 
and resided there many years. It was here Alexander Irwin wedded Elizabeth 
McConnell, who bore him a family of children, and after her death married Mrs. 
Elizabeth (Wycoff) Daily, mother of the subject of this sketch. In 1832 he 
immigrated with his family to northern Indiana, and settled on Elkhart Prairie in the 
" Goshen settlement," the only other one then in Elkhart county being the "Elkhart 
settlement." Three years later he succumbed to an attack of malarial fever prev- 
alent in those days, coupled with treatment of bleeding, purging and heroic 
doses of calomel i)rescrilied by the pioneer doctors. Of the five children born to his 
second marriage, three sons now reside in Goshen. John W. Irwin, one of these, is 
the immediate subject of this sketch. He was born September 24, 1822, and, like 
the majority of the Irwins was reared on a farm. The indifferent subscription 
schools of pioneer days furnished his early education which was later supplemented 
with about two years' attendance at the State University in Bloomington. Begin- 
ing the study of law. when yet a boy, under the tutelage of Judge Chamberlain and 
others, he attended lectures at the law department of the university at Bloomington, 
and in 1849 located at Goshen to begin the practice of his profession, or, as he 
termed it, "to begin the starving process." Goshen has ever since been his home, 
and for years he confined his occupation to probate and ex parte practice. In 
1850 he, together with W. A. Thomas, Gen. Milo S. Hascall, Edward Metcalf, 
Charles Mvirray, Thomas G. Harris, Judge Joseph Mather and others, organized the 
Republican party in Elkhart county from the disaffected ranks of the Democrats, 
and from the defunct Whig and Free Soil parties. In 1860, as a Republican, he 
was elected to the office of county treasurer, and later was re-elected, serving two 
terms. In 1854 he became associated with Hon. Robert Lowrey in the legal practice, 
but prior to this time had served two years as deputy county clerk for Owen 
Cotfin, a year and a half having exclusive charge. At the expiration of his term as 
treasurer he was appointed deputy collector of internal revenue; but during this 
time (1865) formed a partnership with Gen. Milo S. Hascall, in the purchase of the 
business and good will of the Salem Bank at Goshen, from John Cook; and this 
partnership continued uninterruptedly twenty-five years, lacking a few months. 



.UEMOTIiS OF INDIANA. 523 

Since then Mr. Irwin has conducted the business alone, although he and Gen. Has- 
call are yet partners in the hardwood lumber trade at East Chicago. During the 
troublous time when rebellion threatened the overthrow of the Union, Mr. Irwin 
took an active part in the raising of troops for the war, and his loyalty was of so 
pronounced a character as never to be questioned. During his half century of res- 
idence in Elkhart county, Mr. Irwin has been connected with some of the most note- 
worthy enterprises of Goshen, and the pride of his declining years is that no one can 
point to a single act that in the least reflects discredit upon his name. He was one of 
the organizers of the Elkhart County Agricultural Society, and was continued as its 
secretary for twenty-five years, serving twenty-three years without compensation, when 
he declined further service. He left tlie society the owner of thirty-two acres of 
ground, and buildings thereon and .SSOO in cash, all made and saved from the 
receipts from year to year, the property valued at -515,000. Notwithstanding his 
busy life, he has found time for extended reading and travel, and has twice crossed 
the Atlantic to Europe visiting all noteworthy places of interest in the Old World. 
He has the largest miscellaneous library in the county. October 11, 1855, occurred 
his marriage with Miss Hagar Jackson, the third daughter of Col. John Jackson, 
one of the pioneers of Elkhart county, and two children have been born to this 
union: Frank, and May, now Mrs. F. E. Baker. Aside from being one of the oldest 
living pioneers of the county, Mr. Irwin unquestionably is one of its foremost citi- 
zens. Gifted with intelligence, of unswerving integrity, he to-day, on the evening 
of his life labors, commands the respect of his fellow men, and numbers his friends 
only by his number of acquaintances. 

Samuel Scoles. For many years, or since boyhood Mr. Scoleshas given the occu- 
pation of farming his principal time and attention, and that a lifetime spent in pur- 
suing one calling will result in substantial success, especially if energy and perse- 
verance are applied, is particularly true in his case. Like many other of the 
representative citizens of the county, Mr. Scoles is a native of the Buckeye State, 
born November 13, 1814, and is a son of Thomas and Mary (Scoles) Scoles, natives 
of Maryland, where they were reared and married. At an early day the parents 
emigrated to Ohio, and in 1819 settled in Knox county, where they passed the 
remainder of their days, living to be quite aged people. The paternal grandparents 
of our subject were John and Esther (Bing) Scoles, the former a native of the Green 
Isle and the latter of England. Both came to America at a very early day and John 
was a soldier in the Revolution. The death of Thomas Scoles occurred in 1858 and 
that of his widow in January, 1866. The original of this notice was but five years 
of age when his parents located in Knox county, Ohio, and as the educational facili- 
ties of that early day were not of the best, his scholastic training was limited. About 
the year 1845 he removed to Marshall county, Ind. , and February 22, 1846, he was 
married to Miss Barbara Huutsinger, a native of Montgomery county, Ohio, born 
October 3, ISlSt. and the daughter of Henry and Mary (Kessler) Huntsinger, the 
former born in Tennessee and the latter in North Carolina. Mr. and Mrs. Hunt- 
singer settled in St. Joseph county, Ind., Ma}' 5, 1831, and were among the pioneers 
of that county, there passing the closing scenes of their lives, Mrs. Huntsinger 
dying in 1848 and her husband in 1850. To Mr. and Mrs. Scoles were born these 
children: Jesse B., Matilda W., Levcis, Melissa (deceased), and Enoch (who died 
when live years of age). In 1852 Mr. Scoles located in Elkhart county, Ind., settling 
on a farm in Baugo township, and there he resides at the present time. With the 
exception of about ten years spent in Elkhart, Mr. Scoles has resided on this farm 
ever since and is one of the old and much esteemed citizens of the township, and 
takes a deep interest in the welfare and progress of the county. While Mr. Scoles 
is a member of the Methodist Episcopal, his wife holds membership in the Baptist 
Church, and both are active workers in their respective churches. In politics he 
has voted the Republican ticket ever since the organization of that party, and is a 
firm advocate of its platform. His son, Lewis Scoles, was born in Marshall county. 



524 PWTOlilAL AND lUOGllAlHIWAL 

Ind., March 23, 1847, and when about five years of ago was biongbt to Elkhart 
county by his parents. Here his youthful days were spent and in addition to a 
common-school education received in Baiigo township, he attended the public 
schools of Elkhart, where the family moved in 1802. Here Lewis attended school 
for four years and then returned to the farm where he has resided ever since with 
the exception of three years spent in Elkhart. He was married June 23, 1S67, to 
Miss Louisa Bowman, a native of Stark county, Ohio, born December 25, 1847, and 
the daughter of Peter and Julia (Esseck) Bowman, natives of Ohio, who came to 
Elkhart county in IS.")"), where they jiassed ihe remainder of their days. To Lewis 
Scoles and wife have been born live children, three of whom are living: Carrie A., 
Clarence P., died when two years of age; Nora B. and George O. and Georgie E., 
the latter dying at the age of six months. His father and mother make their 
home with him. Mr. and Mrs Scoles are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church and Mr. Scoles is steward of the same. In politics he is an ardent Repub- 
lican. 

C. W. Moon, general merchant and grain dealer of Lakeville, Ind., was bom in 
Union township of this county January 0, 18-15, at the home of his parents in the 
northwest part of the township, being one of their ten children. His parents were 
Eli and Louisa (Hathaway) Moon, the former of whom was born in Wayne county, 
Ind., in April, 1822, a son of Malachi Moon, who came thither from his native State 
of North Carolina in an early day and died in Wayne county when his son Eli was 
a small child. The grandmother Moon also died in Wayne county, having become 
the mother of eight children: John, James, Eli, Elizabeth, Sarah, Nancy, Mary and 
Jane, all of whom are dead except James, who is about eighty years of age. All the 
early members of the family were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, all 
followed farming and became well to do. Eli Moon spent his early life in Wayne 
county and when about fifteen years of age came to St. Joseph county and until 
eighteen years of age worked as a farm hand. He then started to farming on 
his own account on some land which he purchased in Union township, but in 1878 
he retired from that Inisiness and took up his residence in Lakeville, where he lived 
until his death in 1874. He held office in the United Brethren Church, of which 
he was a member, and until 1856 was a Democrat in politics, after which he became 
a Republican. His farm of 155 acres was well improved, but it required many years 
of hard labor to bring it to its present admirable state of cultivation. He was a 
well-known and useful citizen, and his death was a source of much regret to all who 
knew and respected and admired him for his many sterling traits of character. 
His union with Miss Hathaway took place in 1840, she being a native of the State of 
New York and a daughter of Jesse and Hannah Hathaway who were born in the 
Stale of New York, but were of English descent. They early became residents of St. 
Joseph county and here passed from life, he before the war and she about 1873. 
They held to the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church, were well to do and 
reared the following children: Henry, Gaylor, Abner, Peter, Ezra, Phcebe, Hannah, 
Lo.iisa, Electa, Ovanda, of which family five members are living. Louisa Hatha- 
way was born in 1823 and died in 1859, an earnest member of the United Brethren 
Church. She also became the mother of ten children: William H., Charles W., 
Andrew% Jesse F., George R., Mary, Ruth, Alice, Emeline and Lucina. William, 
Henry, Alice and Emeline are deceased. William was a soldier in Company H, 
Seventy-third Regiment Indiana Volunteers and was killed at the battle of Stone 
River December 3, 1862, at the age of twenty years. He had participated in a num- 
ber of severe engagements, in which he acquitted himself creditably. He was buried 
on the battlefield. All the living members of the family reside in St. Joseph county 
except Lucina, who is a resident of Nebraska. C. W. Moon, the subject of this sketch 
attended the common schools and the Northern Indiana College of South Bend, and 
thus gained a good practical education. He remained with his father on the farm 
until he was twenty-one years of age and then started to do for himself and for four 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 537 

years thereafter was engaged in teaching school. He then began clerking in the 
store belonging to Mr. Shively of South Bend and still later in Lakeville, and in 
1869 embarked in the mercantile business for himself, opening up a general store at 
Lakeville, which he operated for fifteen years, then gave up the business and once 
more became a pedagogue in Union township. Three years later he again opened a 
mercantile store in Lakeville and since that time has followed the business constantly 
and with good results. He keeps everything that can be required in a general store 
and for the past three years has also handled grain, making a specialty of wheat. 
Mr. Moon is a Republican in politics and has been active in the political affairs of his 
section. He has been justice of the peace for the past ten years and with impartial 
fairness has adjusted his neighbors' difficulties. Although a member of the A. F. & 
A. M. , in which he attained quite a high rank, he has not attended lodge for some 
time past. November 16, 1870, he married Miss Mary E. Crosby, of Whitley covmty, 
Ind. , her birth occurring November 4, 18-47, a daughter of Charles and Mary 
(Shults) Crosby, who came from the State of New York to this section in 1852, and 
took up their residence in Huntington county and later in Whitley county, where the 
father died in 1876. The mother is still living. They were the parents of three 
children: Wellington, Seward and Mary E. Mr. and Mrs. Moon have three sons: 
Edmund B., born October 6, 1872; Arthur, born January 3, 1876, and Marvin, born 
April 13, 1878. Edmund was a school teacher for some time and is now studying 
veterinary surgery in Toronto, Canada. When thirteen years of age he graduated 
from the public schools, being the youngest graduate in the county, and since that 
time he has not disappointed his friends in regard to his progress. He possesses 
superior mental gifts and the determination to make the most of his opportunities 
and talents. Arthur graduated at the age of fourteen years and is now a successful 
teacher of the county, and Marvin, who also graduated at the age of thirteen years, 
continues to attend school and assist his father in the store. Mr. Moon has always 
taken much interest in educational matters and has given his children good oppor- 
tunities to become well informed men and useful citizens. 

David Whitmek, farmer and stockraiser. It is always a pleasure to deal with the 
history of one who is a member of one of those substantial old families who for 
many years have been distinguished for patriotism, the genuine spirit of Christianity 
and the strong characteristics which have made them well and favorably known in 
the sections in which they have resided. Such a man is David Whitmer, who was 
born in Montgomery county, Ohio, October 18, 1830, a son of Abram Whitmer, a 
sketch of whom appears in this volume. When about two years old David was 
brought to St. Joseph county, Ind. , by his parents, and in the old-time schools of 
this section succeeded in obtaining a practical education, which has since been of 
much benefit and satisfaction to him. In his youthful days game was very 
plentiful hereabouts and continued to remain so for many years after their settle- 
ment. He was raised to a healthful and vigorous manhood on his father's farm and 
learned lessons of industry, honor and sobriety which have remained with him to 
the present day. On Febuary 2, 1854, he took for his wife Miss Celia A. Fuson, 
and their union resulted in the birth of five children: Melisa A., Alma L., Wilbert 
L. , William A. and Abram W. All are married and live in St. Joseph county. 
The mother of these children was called from life on November 14, 1872, and until 
Febuary 18, 1874, his daughters kept house for him, when he was married to Miss 
Phcebe J. Miller, of Dutch descent, who was reared in St. Joseph county. Her 
father is still living in South Bend, of which place he is a respected and esteemed 
citizen. The principles of the Republican party have always recommended them- 
selves to the judgment of Mr. Whitmer, bathe has never held office of any kind nor 
aspired to do so, the proper conduct of his tine farm completely occupying his atten- 
tion. During the long term of years that Mr. Whitmer has resided in St. Joseph 
county, the people have had every opportunity to judge of his character, and no 
whisper has ever been breathed against his fair name. He is an honor to the race 



528 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

from which be sprung, and is one of the most successful agriculturists of his section, 
being the owner of a fine farm of 260 acres, all the improvements on which were 
made by himself. His wife is a worthy member of the Dunkard Church, and in 
every sense of the word is a true Christian. 

Isaac Whitmer, farmer. This gentleman has been prominently connected with 
the welfare of Green township, St. Joseph Co., Ind., is one of its best known 
and most influential citizens, and is one of the most enterprising of farmers, 
using the best methods of fertilizing the soil and improving the land. He was born 
on the farm which he now occupies, December 14, 1835, a son of Abram and 
Catherine (Bowman) Whitmer, the former a native of the Keystone State and the 
latter of Ohio. The Whitmer family is of German origin, and this blood can be 
readily seen in the members of the family, for their chief characteristics are energy, 
perseverance, honesty and thrift. Abram Whitmer came from Ohio to St. Joseph 
county, Ind., in 1831, and first resided about four miles south of South Bend on 
Turkey Creek road, but remained there only a year or so, when he moved to 
where his son Isaac, the subject of this sketch, now resides, entering 100 acres of 
wild land. On this property he built a little log cabin, in which he and his family 
moved, and in order to at once begin Ihe work of farming he "scratched" a small 
tract of land on which he sowed .some grain, and around which he built a sort of pen 
in order to hold his claim. In those days the face of the red man was more fre- 
quently seen than that of the white, and wild game of various kinds roamed the 
forests and frequently gave the early settlers considerable trouble by killing and 
carrying off their stock and destroying their fields of grain. Mr. Whitmer set en- 
ergetically about the work of improvement and although he for some time had hard 
work to keep the wolf from the door, his labors at last began to be rewarded and 
funds became more plentiful. In time he added eighty acres to his homestead tract 
and also forty acres of heavy timber land. On this valuable farm he breathed his 
last on December 13, 1872. In early days he did his trading and milling at Bert- 
rand and Michigan City and although these hardships and privations were annoying, 
there was no such word as "fail" in his vocabulary, and when the country began to 
be thickly settled his reward came. He was an elder in the Dunkard Church, and 
was a man who possessed many sterling attributes. His union resulted in the birth 
of eleven children, one of whom died in infancy, the living members being: Jacob; 
David; John; Susan; Isaac; Ann; Daniel, an elder in the Dunkard Church; Henry, 
Mary and Lydia. Christina is deceased. Isaac was born and reared on the farm 
he now owns, but his educational advantages were limited, owing to the poor facili- 
ties in his boyhood days. He attended the winter terms, which lasted about three 
months and were held in the log cabins of pioneer days. When not in school his 
time was spent in clearing the farm and with horses tramping out wheat on the barn 
floor. There were plenty of deer at that time and being a fair marksman the family 
did not lack for fresh meat. In 1859 he crossed the plains to California in search 
of gold, but in January of the following year returned home via the Isthmus of 
Panama, only to again cross the plains to California in the spring of 1800. This 
time he was absent two and a half years, during which time he not only tilled 
the soil but also hauled freight over the mountains, making his headquarters at 
Sacramento. In the fall 1862 he once more returned to the home of his birth, rid- 
ing a pony across the plains. He was subsequently married and moved to near 
La Porte, Ind., but in March, 1869, settled on his present farm — his birthplace — 
■where he owns 271 acres of land, nearly all of which is under cultivation. He deals 
in stock to some extent, but the most of his attention is given to tilling the soil. He 
was elected township trustee in 1884 and served a term of four years. He is one of 
the enterprising and representative men of Green township, is a Republican in 
politics and is a member of the Dunkard Church. He was married in 1863 to Miss 
Sarah M. Greene, daughter of Nathan and Rebecca Greene, and his union has re- 
sulted in the birth of three children: Eva, A. L. and Mary M. Eva, the oldest, has 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 529 

taught school oine years; A. L., the second child and only son, has taught three years; 
both are now attending College, while Mary M., the youngest, after graduating 
in the common schools, is now attending the high school of South Bend, Ind. 

Leonard H. Frank. The old country has contributed to the new many estimable 
citizens, but she has given us none more worthy of respect and esteem than the 
subject of this sketch, who is one of the representative men of the county. He was 
born in Germany on February 7, 1870, and his parents, George L. and Margaret 
(Kapp) Frank, were natives of that country also and there passed their entire 
lives. Leonard H. Frank's early life was characterized by the energy and 
industry so common among those of German nativity. On April 6, 1854, he decided 
that America was the Mecca to which so many were turning, and he decided to cross 
the ocean to this laud of promise. He landed in New York on May 17 of that 
year with but $2 in his pocket, but with any amount of energy and pluck. 
Two days in New York reduced his %'l to a cipher and he was obliged to 
borrow $2 to get to Philadelphia. Thus he started out for himself $2 
poorer off than nothing. Immediately upon reaching that city he procured 
employment on a farm across the river in New Jersey and received $10 for 
his first month's services. The next month he received $11, but daring the 
winter he received but $9 per month, not being so busily employed. The 
following spring he received $13 and continued on the farm until the fall of 
1855, when he decided to travel toward the setting sun. He was offered $15 
per month to remain, but in spite of all this he started for Ohio. For three 
years he resided in Wyandotte county and then went to Crawford county, that 
State, where he purchased his first land, seventeen acres, upon which he settled and 
began improving. Two years later he added sixteen acres to this and made his home 
here until the spring of 1867, when he disposed of his farm and came to Indiana. He 
purchased eighty acres in St. Joseph county, Ind., but as it was not all paid for he 
disposed of this and bought sixty acres in the same county. In January, 1886, he 
came to Elkhart county, purchased his present farm of 145 acres, in Baugo town- 
ship, and is one of the successful and properous men of the county. Mr. Frank 
celebrated October 15, 1855, by taking to himself a wife in the person of Miss Mary 
Zanciuger, a native of Germany, born December 2, 1833. They are the parents of 
eleven children, who were named in the order of their births as follows: William 
(deceased), George, Caroline, Emaliue, William (deceased), Lewis, Andrew, Tracy, 
Kate, John and Edward (deceased). Worthy and exemplary members of the Lutheran 
Church, Mr. and Mrs. Frank contribute liberally to its support. They have a fine two- 
story brick residence and a large barn, erected in 1888 at a cost of $1,800. As we 
know he started out with limited means, in a strange country, and what he has 
accumulated is the result of great industry and perseverance. He says he could 
never have accomplished so much in any other country, and that the United States 
is the country for a struggling young man to amount to something. 

Lester Sawyer. A noble class of men has built up the agricultural interests 
of Baugo township, Elkhart Co., Ind., and has made it a garden spot in the 
great commonwealth of the State. Among those who have been active and efficient 
in the work is he whose name stands at the head of this sketch. He has been identi- 
fied with the farming interests of the county for many years and in every walk of 
life has conducted himself in an honorable, upright manner. His fine farm of 132 
acres is one of the most attractive agricultural spots of the district, being conspicu- 
ous for the management that, while making it neat and attractive, still shows 
prudence and economy. Mr. Sawyer owes his nativity to Ohio, born in Portage 
county May 23, 1832, and is a son of Levi and Catherine (Beers) Sawyer, the 
former a native of the Old Bay State and the latter of Ohio, born in Portage county. 
Levi Sawyer was born on January 1, 1801, and his parents, Asa and Eunice (Priest) 
Sawyer, were natives of Massachusetts. Asa Sawyer emigrated to Ohio at an early 
date, settled in Portage county and there followed his trade, cooper, in connection 



530 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

■with farming. He was a very successful agriculturist and became quite wealthy. 
He was captain in the War of 1812, under Col. Carter, in a company known ae 
the "Floodwood." His death occurred about the year 1846, but for several years 
previous to his death he had no use of his limbs, being a paralytic. His wife sur- 
vived him until about 1860, her death occurring in Portage county on the home- 
stead. Levi Sawyer was reared and educated in his native county and there learned 
the shoemaker's trade, which he followed for many years. He was married to Miss 
Catherine Beers, who bore him these children: Luke, served in the One Hundredth 
Ohio Regiment during the war: Lewis, Lester and William, were cavalrymen during 
the war, in the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Regiment; Lucy is in Kansas, and 
Louisa died in 1866; Lewis and Leroy died in 1855. In 1854 Levi Sawyer came 
to Indiana, located in Elkhart county, and for many years was justice of the peace 
in Jefferson township. Previous to this, in 1845, Mrs. Sawyer died in Portage county, 
Ohio, and in 1846 Mr. Sawyer married Eliza Kelso, a native of Portage county, 
and whose death occurred in Iowa in 1880. Three children were the result of this 
union: Charles, Franklin and Byron, two of whom, Charles and Franklin, served 
in the Union army. Mr. Sawyer was a man of energy and strict integrity and was 
universally respected. His death occurred on August 30, 1889, at the home of his 
son, Lester, in Baugo township, this county. Lester Sawyer was trained to the 
duties of the farm at an early age and received his education in the common schools. 
Although the advantages were not of the best, he improved every opportunity and 
for several years after coming to Elkhart county was a school teacher during the 
winter months. In 1853 Mr. Sawyer came to Indiana, settled on a farm in Bauga 
township, this county, and resides on this at the present time. Thirty of the 132 
acres that he owns is in timber, but the remainder is in a high state of cultiva- 
tion. Mr. Sawyer has served his township as clerk and trustee at various times, 
and has always been identified with the Democratic party in politics. Our subject 
celebrated his marriage to Miss Olive E. Newman, at Elkhart, December 11, 1856. 
She was born in Tioga county, N. Y., April 1, 1834, being the daughter of 
James E. and Catherine (Hart) Newman, natives of the Empire State, but of En- 
glish German descent respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Newman emigrated to Indiana 
in 1840, settled in Baugo township, Elkhart county, and there followed farming 
on the land now owned by our subject. Mr. Newman was one of the pioneers 
of Baugo township, but did not live long after settling here, his death occurring 
on August 25, 1840. His wife survived him until February 4, 1872, her death oc- 
curring at Elkhart. The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Sawyer: Clara E., born June 17, 1866; Mina E., born June 4, 1868; Nora F., 
born December 1, 1870; William E., born January 31, 1874; and Herbert, born 
January 9, 1861, and died March 4, 1865. 

Jeremiah H. Service. The best security is, after all, individual integrity and 
personal responsibility, for, however strict laws have been made, it has too often been 
shown that some one has turned out sharp enough to beat them. So-called private 
banks, though comparatively few, are yet useful spokes in the wheel of com- 
mercial relations, and one of the strongest buttresses of social happiness. They are 
unrestricted in their manner of doing business, and their operations rest entirely 
upon the judgment of their owners and officials. In various ways they can satisfy 
the public easier than institutions which are bound down by laws, and to-day the 
largest banks in the world are private banks, and the individual loaner is, and has 
always been, the principal lubricator of the engines of commerce. As a striking 
example of this summary, the bank which is conducted under the title of Service & 
Son may be mentioned, the place of its location being New Carlisle, Ind. Mr. Ser- 
vice was born in Herkimer county, N. Y., November 15, 1812, his native town being 
Norway. He comes of a highly respected and well-known family, being the eldest 
son and second child in a family of four children born to Philip and Clara (Hall) 
Service, the former of whom was born in New Jersey in 1788, being one of the fol- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 531 

lowing children: William, Philip, Eva, Mary and Elizabeth, born to William and 
Sophia (Young) Service, who were also natives of New Jersey, the former being a 
son of German parents, who came to this country and settled in the State of New 
Jersey, from which State William Service enlisted in the Revolutionary war, serving 
in the continental army. Upon his removal to New York State he took up his resi- 
dence in Schoharie county, and about 1800 became a resident of Herkimer county. 
He died in that county some years ago, having been a public-spirited citizen, and a 
farmer by occupation. His children grew to honorable maturity, reared families, 
some of them quite large, and nearly all died when quite advanced in years. The 
grandmother was a native of Germany, came to this country at an early day, and 
died in the State of New York. William Service was an old line Whig and a man 
of unblemished reputation. Philip Service removed to the State of New York with 
his parents, and having been brought upon a farm, he followed that calling through- 
out life and died at his home in the Empire State in 1863. He was drafted in the 
War of 1812, but sent a substitute and devoted his attention to his farm. He was 
first an old line Whig in politics, but afterward became a Republican, and supported 
the principles up to the time of his death. His wife was a daughter of Jeremiah 
Hall, who was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and an early and prominent resident 
of Herkimer county, who was a stanch supporter of the Whig party. Mrs. Service 
was born in Herkimer county, N. Y. , and was there called from life in 1828, having 
become the mother of four children: Mary, who became Mrs. Jacob Edbirt, has been 
dead many years; Jeremiah, the subject of this sketch; Harriet M. , who became the 
.wife of Moses W. Frazier, died about two years ago; and Clarissa, who is the 
deceased wife of John Frazier. Jeremiah Service was reared in the county of his 
birth, and on the old homestead he learned habits of industry and energy which 
were of great use to him when he started out in life for himself. His education was 
obtained in the district schools, and, like most farmers' boys of his day, he only 
attended during the winter months, but fortunately afterward for sometime attended 
the grammar school of Syracuse, N. Y. At the age of twenty years he began 
to make his own way in the world and for four years thereafter worked on a dairy 
farm in New York. He then turned his footsteps westward, and during the two 
years that he spent in Huron county, Ohio, he taught school during the winter, and 
worked as a farm hand during the summer months, and in a brick yard. On April 
12, 1837, he found himself in St. Joseph county, Ind. , and that season made 
some of the first brick that was ever manufactured in this section. He followed this 
calling two years, then made a short visit to his old home in New York, after which 
he returned to this section where his home has been, with the exception of from 
1843 to 1846, when he lived at Buchanan, Mich. After selling his brick yard he 
opened a general store at a small town called Hamilton, in Olive township, then 
resided three years in Michigan, but since 1846 has been an active and influential 
business man of New Carlisle. Upon retiring from the mercantile business in 1867 
he established a bank which has been in successful operation ever since, and is estab- 
lished on a sound basis. He has ever been a far-seeing man of business, and is well 
known as one of the most prominent Isusiness men of the county, and in politics has 
ever been a strong Whig and Republican. His intelligent views on all subjects, his 
honorable methods of conducting his business affairs and his agreeable and courteous 
manners led to his election to the State Legislature from St. Joseph county, in 1852, 
and for one term he discharged his duties iu a faithful and able manner. Healsoheld 
the office of justice of the peace for four years in early times, and when at Terra 
Coupee served " Uncle Sam " faithfully as postmaster. As a business man he has been 
remarkably successful, and since 1880 he has " kept the faith " in the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, in which he is now trustee. He is a member of the A. F. & 
A. M. lodge, of New Carlisle, No. 204, and for a number of years has been com- 
mander of the same. He is very public spirited and has ever manifested much inter- 
est iu educational work, and for a number of terms has been a trustee of the school 



532 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of New Carlisle. June 24, 1847, he was married to Miss Sarah A. Flanegin, who 
was born in Butler county, Ohio, March 12, 1822, a daughter of Hugh C. and Mary 
(Jones) Flanegin, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania, was an early 
pioneer of Butler county and became a resident of St. Joseph county, Ind., in 1834, 
locating on a farm in the northern part of Olive township. He was a Whig in pol- 
itics, a man prominent in public affairs, held the office of justice of the peace, and 
in an early day represented St. Joseph county in the State Legislature. He was a 
charter member of South Bend Lodge, No. 45, of the A. F. & A. M. He was killed 
by lightning in 1846, his widow surviving him until 1884, when she died at New Car- 
lisle. She was born in Butler county, Ohio, a daughter of William Jones, a native of 
Wales, whose wife, Sarah, was also from that country. Hugh C. Flanegin and wife 
became the parents of the following children: Sarah A., the wife of Mr. Service; 
Laura, who is Mrs. Vaughn, of Greeley, Iowa; Caroline, who is Mrs. Sparks, of 
Buchanan, Mich. ; Adaline, who is Mrs. Druluier, of La Porte county, Ind.; William 
T. , who is living in New Carlisle; Marcella became a Mis. Perkins and is now dead; 
Joseph P. is living in New Carlisle, and Charles, who was a soldier in the Second 
Colorado Regiment, was killed during Price's raid. Mr. and Mrs. Service are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and have many friends throughout the sec- 
tion in which they reside. Their children are: George H. , born June 17, 1848, is 
a leading merchant of New Carlisle; Mary J., born August 4, 1850, is the wife of 
Charles Walverton, of South Bend, by whom she has three children: Hattie E., 
Walter J. and Clarence; Hattie was born in 1861, and died at the age of two years; 
Carrie M. was born April 6, 1857, is married to Edward H. Harris, a groceryman of 
New Carlisle, and John C, who was born January 21, 1859. George H. Service, 
one of the above-named children, has the principal charge of the banking and mer- 
cantile business of Service & Son, and he may in every respect be said to be a " chip 
of the old block," for he is enterprising, energetic, a shrewd financier but thoroughly 
reliable and honorable. He was brought up in the mercantile and banking business, 
but received fair educational advantages in the district schools of Terre Coupee and 
in Bryant & Stratton's Business College of Chicago. In 1867 he assumed the man- 
agement of the mercantile store belonging to his father, which has been under his 
capable control over since. It is one of the leading establishments of New Carlisle, 
and the annual business done is large. He assisted in organizing the New Carlisle 
Bank in 1873, in which he has an interest, and aside from this and his mercantile 
business, he is interested in buying all kinds of grain, especially wheat. Politically 
he has always been a Republican, is interested in the affairs of his section, and is a 
member of the city council and the city school lioard. Socially he belongs to the A. 
F. & A. M. of New Carlisle Lodge, No. 204. He was married in 1876 to Mary J. 
Howe, of La Porte, Ind., who was born there May 1, 1850, a daughter of Robert B. 
and Mary (Spaulding) Howe, which family came from Pennsylvania, the father 
being one of the first merchants of La Porte for many years. He died in 1890, his 
widow still surviving him. To them were born seven children: Robert A., who lives 
in Oakland, Cal. ; William H. , a real estate man of Kansas City; James A., who is 
book-keeper in the Chicago, Burlington & Northern Railroad officeof Chicago; Charles 
D., a physician of Pullman, 111. ; Mary (Mrs. Service); Lizzie, who died at the age of 
twenty-three years; Kittie, who is a type-writer operator in the office of the La Porte 
Carriage Company. Mr. and Mrs. George Service have three children: Clara L., 
born April 4, 1877; Anna S., born in 1880, and Lizzie M., born in 1882. Mr. Ser- 
vice and his wife are members of the Baptist Church, and are leaders in the social 
circles of New Carlisle. 

EoMaND Michael (deceased). The sketch here given is that of a former citizen 
and resident of Baugo township, Elkhart county, Ind., and is a tribute paid to his 
many virtues and to the lesson which, as a father, he impresses upon the minds of 
his children by the example of a noble and honorable life, which, although it was 
fraught with hard labor and patient industry, was a model to his heirs of the sterling 



MEMOIRS OF lyniAyA. 533 

qualities that characterized a man who lived nearer to nature in its purity than to 
the artifices of society. His death, which occurred ou the '25th of January, 1869, 
was the occasion of universal sorrow, for all felt the loss sustained by the departure 
of such a man. Mr. Michael was born in the Buckeye State, Miami county, Febru- 
ary 27, 1820, and is a sou of Solomou and Sarah (Jacobs) Michael, natives of the 
Old North State. At a very early date the parents moved to Miami county, Ohio, 
and were among the pioneers of that county, experiencing all the hardships and 
privations of the early settlers. In 1830 they removed to Indiana, settled in St. 
Joseph county, on the banks of the river of that name, and there entered eighty acres 
of land. Upon this they erected a rude log cabin, and here passed the remainder of 
their days, the father dying about 1848 and the moth»>r in 1854. They were honest, 
upright citizens and an honor to any community. Our subject was ten years of age 
when his parents came to St. Joseph county, and there he finished his growth. He 
was early inui'ed to hard labor, for he assisted his father in clearing the farm and set- 
ling the county. His educational advantages were of course sadly neglected and he 
never attended school more than one day in his life. Being possessed of a naturally 
quick mind and a fertile brain, and being a man of observation, he became as well post 
ed perhaps as many men who have had much better advantages. On the 1st of March, 
1840, he was married in St. Joseph county to Miss Eliza Noffsiuger, a native o 
Ohio, born June 14, 1818, and the daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Syler) Noff- 
einger, natives of the Old Dominion, who settled in Dart county, Ohio, at an early 
date. Mr. and Mrs. Noffsinger cleared a farm in the wilderness and resided on this 
for many years. In 1830 they removed to Elkhart county, lud. , and on December 
27 settled in Baugo township where they entered 240 acres of land. In the spring 
of that year Mr. Noffsinger had cleared about four acres, planted some corn, and 
erected a log cabin, 12x12 feet, into which he moved his family on the 5th 
of August. Here the family lived for many years, improving the land and making 
a home. Mrs. Noffsinger died in 1856, and in June, 1859, he followed her to the 
grave. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Michael they settled on eighty acres of 
land presented to Mrs. Michael by her father (where J. Proudfit now lives) und here 
they made their home for several years. They tlien disposed of the firm and pur- 
chased the property where Mrs. Michael now resides. The following children were 
given Mr. and Mrs. Michael: William, Jonathan (deceased), Jacob (deceased), 
Joseph (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased), Mary J. (deceased), Anu N. and Ada. at 
home. When the war cloud hung darkly over the nation Mr. Michael enlisted in 
Company F, Forty-eighth Indiana "Volunteer Infantry, 1862, and participated in the 
battles of Corinth and Pittsburg Lauding. He served about nine months, when an 
accident occurred which eventually resulted in his death. He was a consistent 
Christian, a kind father and loving husband. Mrs. Michael has 120 acres of land, 
about fifteen of which are timber. She is a member of the Baptist Church and a lady 
possessed of many womanly virtues. 

Asa Kxott (deceased). The name which is here given was for many years 
counted as among the leading farmers and business men of St. Joseph county, and 
although he has now passed from earth's activities it is but just and satisfactory 
that his life's narrative be recounted among those who have done excellent service in 
subduing the wilderness and l)ringiug it into its present splendid condition physic- 
ally, morally and socially. Born in Greene county, Ohio, May 27, 1834, he was 
brought to St. Joseph county, Ind., when but four years of age, the names of his 
father and mother being David and Margaret (Brearley) Knott, who were born in 
New Jersey, and who emigrated to Ohio in an early day. In 1838 they settled in 
Greene township, at which time the country was wild and unimproved, populated by 
Indians, wolves and panthers; but while growing up Mr. Knott saw it transformed 
from a wild state to a thickly peopled region and magnificent farms. He obtained 
a fair education, and after reaching manhood followed lumbering in Marshall county 
for some time. He then returned and purchased the home farm and commenced 



534 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

farming and dealing in live stock and real estate, which business he continued 
through life. On January 7, 1868, he was united in marriage to Miss Caroline E. 
DuiBald of South Bend, and to their union live children were given: Charles, born 
January 16, 1869; William D., born August 25, 1870; AsaG., born July 13, 1873, 
and is now deceased; Nellie, born November 19, 1878; and Robert, born November 
9, 1886, and is deceased. Mr. Knott was the owner of 1,200 acres of land 1,000 
of which was under cultivation. He also owned the 100-barrel flouring mill and 
grain elevator at Walkerton, Ind. , which he operated with the help of his two sons, 
and which did a large and flourishing business. On the organization of the Forty- 
eighth Indiana Volunteers during the Civil war, Mr. Knott was chosen first lieuten- 
ant of Company B., and while doing his duty in the service of his country contracted 
the diseases which afterward caused his death. He was one of the organizers and 
tir.9t treasurer of the Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and was afterward 
elected president, which ofSce he held until his death which occurred February 23, 
1891. Mr. Knott was, along with the late Judge Stanfield, drainage commissioner, 
and during their term of office they reclaimed over 25,000 acres of marsh 
and swamp land in St. Joseph county. Although not a candidate for office Mr. 
Knott was an influential and loyal Republican and always helped to develop a 
healthy public sentiment. He was prominent in Grange and G. A. R. , circles, and 
always ready to assist in any liberal and public-spirited movement. He was a 
man of strong character, sound judgment, and his integrity was unimpeachable, and 
he set an example of honor and industry that all will do well to emulate. 

JoH.\NN K. Boss. The material for the manufacture of first class, durable brick 
for building and paving purposes in and around Elkhart is inexhaustible, and there 
are a number of old and established yards in and around the city. One of the most 
noted and successful concerns in the county, extensively engaged in the manufacture 
of brick of all kinds, is that conducted by Johann K. Boss and located in Baugo 
township, on the banks of the St. Joseph river, Section 11. This flourishing indus- 
try has been established for many years and the brick is unrivaled for durability, 
finish and uniform excellence, and is a general favorite with our leading contractors 
and builders. An immense stock of choicest brick is constantly on hand and every 
effort is made to give complete satisfaction to patrons. Mr. Boss engaged in the 
manufacture of brick on the present site in 1881, although he had studied this 
industry for many years and had established a manufactory of this nature in Baugo 
township as early as 1871. He has all the latest improved machinery for the suc- 
cessful manufacture of pressed brick on a large scale, including a machine with a 
capacity of 50,000 per day, but the demands of the market at present do not require 
the making of only about one-half that amount and about sixteen men are employed. 
For a number of years Mr. Boss has carried on an immense business, the average 
output for the past ten years exceeding 2,500,000 bricks per year. During the 
years from 1883 to 1886 the output exceeded 3,000,000. The present season has 
been a very trying one for the business (1892), making it impossible to fill all 
orders. Mr. Boss was born amid the beautiful scenes of the Alps mountains, 
Switzerland, August 9, 1831, and his parents. Christian Boss and Anna Boss, were 
natives of that country also. Born of poor but honest parents, our subject had very 
limited educational advantages and was reared to labor early and late on a farm 
and to practice the most rigid economy in order to gain a livelihood. The principles 
thus instilled into his youthful mind have followed him closely through life, winning 
for him victories at critical periods, and bringing him bravely to the front. Having 
arrived at the age of twenty years and realizing the meager advantages offered in 
his native land for the acquirement of a home, he decided to cross the ocean and seek 
his fortune in the land of untold possibilities to the energetic, persevering student of 
industry and of which he had heard so much. At the time of his departure, April 
14, 1851, his capital stock consisted of a faithful dog which he had raised and which 
he disposed of for $4. Through the generosity of an uncle he was enabled to secure 



MEMOIliS OF INDIANA. 585 

passage to America and with this uncle lauded in New York City a few weeks after 
taking passage. In consideration for the expense his voyage cost his nncle, young 
Boss was to give him his services until the debt was wiped out. Owing to the care- 
ful attention and consideration he manifested toward his uncle during the voyage, 
that gentleman generously donated the expenses of the trip and informed our suject 
that he could consider himself free to act for himself. Upon arriving in the city of 
New York this hopeful young man had about 10 cents in money and he immediately 
invested that in a straw hat. Later, in company with his uncle, he came to 

, Indiana, which was then the terminus of the railroad. An overland 

trip was then made to Kosciusko county, our subject walking the entire distance, 
about sixty miles. Six months later he came to Elkhart county and worked at what- 
ever employment he could find. In 1852 he began working in a brick yard and here 
laid the foundation for his subsequent prosperous career. He applied himself ener- 
getically and became thoroughly conversant with every detail of the business. He 
began as general utility man and, gradually progressing, was given an opportunity 
to take a hand at the molds. He made 6,000 bricks by hand the first day, and 
eince that time he has made millions of them. In 1863, in company with a brother, 
he invested in sixty acres of land in Concord township. On this property he labored 
at night, being employed during the day in the rail shops at Elkhart at $1.10 per 
day and the money thus earned enabled him to pay the balance on his farm. Dur- 
ing the summer of 1863 he cultivated twenty acres of corn, two acres of potatoes and 
performed all the work by hand after returning from his labors of the day at Elk- 
hart. His energy was unbounded and he was gifted with an endurance and consti- 
tution seldom bestowed upon man. In this way he made a start, being a careful, 
economical and persevering student of all that he undertook. His parents, having 
come to America in 1862 and being advanced in years, now made their home with 
our subject. The father was born November 22, 1795, and the date of his mother's 
birth was Jane 2, 1798. They were married June 20, 1820. Their lives were 
spared but a short time after coming to the States. A strange coincidence occurred 
in connection with the death of the father, which took place December 31, 1863. 
On October 19 of that year Christian Boss attended the funeral of a brother and on 
returning from the same made the remark that he was the last of the family and 
would not live to see the new year ushered in. He was advanced in years, quite 
feeble, and the middle of the following December found him in bed with the premo- 
nition that his life was fast ebbing away. While not suffering from disease of any 
kind he steadfastly refused to have medical attendance, sincerely believing that he was 
past the aid of human help. From that time on his decline was rapid, all his strength 
and vitality passing away from him, and in the last hours of the last month of the 
year his predictions were fulfilled. He passed quietly and peacefully away. Dur- 
ing the early days of our subject's farming experience he had but few implements 
for carrying on the work and the stock on the place consisted of one horse and a cow. 
On many occasions when the work was too severe for the horse he would call into 
requisition the services of the cow and drive them together. Mr. Boss recalls an 
incident when he took a load of wood to Elkhart with this oddly improvised team. 
The sight of it caused great amusement for the town people, especially the children, 
who followed him about the street in great glee. The principal event of his life 
took place January 10. 1864, when he was united in marriage to Mrs. Julia A. Reid- 
meyer, whose husband had been killed on the railroad, leaving her with five children 
to provide for. She has proven a helpmate, indeed, to her husband, and to her 
economy, untiring assistance and co-operation in hours that were darkest, Mr. Boss 
attributes his success. Four sons have been born to them: Jacob, Albert, J. C. 
Christian and Edward A. In 1871 Mr. Boss engaged in the manufacture of brick, 
purchasing five acres of land in Section 11, Baugo township, at a cost of $1,000. 
He borrowed the money and mortgaged his farm for this. For seven years he made 
brick by hand and then invested in a small machine. Three years later a larger 



536 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

machine was found necessary, which he added at an expense of $1,000 cash. In 
1882 the demands of the time called for increased facilities and be purchased the 
machine which he uses at present and which is valued at $2,000, with a capacity of 
50,000 briclis per day. At this time he also purchased eight and one- fourth acres 
of land, on which is an almost inexhaustible supply of superior clay and where his 
manufacturing interests are now located. Since Mr. Boss engaged in the manufact- 
ure of brick with modern appliances his advancement has been rapid, and he has 
been eminently successful in this business. In 1880 he was |4,000 in debt, but 
since that time he has not only paid off all debts contracted, but has kept abreast of 
the demands of the times in the purchase of modern machinery; has purchased 188 
acres of fine land aud is entirely free from encumbrances of any character. He has 
also been a generous and indulgent father to all his children and for seven years 
gave his three step- sons a comfortable home and $500 cash each year. At the time 
of their marriage he presented each of them with .flOU in gold, over $10,000 being 
disbursed in this way. He is equally generous to his own children who are still 
with him, enjoying the comforts and benefits of a model home, a modern two-story 
brick residence having been erected. Mr. and Mrs. Boss are consistent members of 
the Evangelical Church and in politics Mr. Bo^s is a Democrat. He is a loyal, 
patriotic citizen iu all that the word implies and blesses the day that inspired him to 
come to this country. He ardently believes that there is no other such country on 
the face of the globe. 

Solomon Stump. Among the representative and venerable citizens of Elkhart 
county, and one who is a splendid type of the enterprise, industry and self-reliance of 
the early Indiana pioneer, it is a pleasure to introduce to the readers of this volume 
the subject of this sketch. More than half a century ago he braved the dangers, trials 
and privations of pioneer life in order to establish a home and competency for his grow- 
ing family, and where now are waving fields of grain then stood the mighty monarch 
of the forest. He was born in Canada August 26, 1830, being the tenth of thirteen 
children reared by Daniel aud Sally (Smith) Stump, the father having been born in 
Pennsylvania, May 1, 1790. and died at the advanced age of eighty-seven years, in 
Elkhart county. His parents, Abraham and Mary (Meekley) Stump reared a fam- 
ily of two daughters and six sons, and at the time of their removal to Canada Daniel 
was only fourteen years old. He was reared on British soil with his brothers 
and sisters whose names are as follows: Solomon, David, Samuel, Jacob, Joseph, 
Lizzie and Susan, he being the second of the family. Upon reaching man's estate 
he was married, and in 1838 moved to Elkhart county, Ind. , making the journey 
thither by wagon, as did many other Canadian families, and as he bad been brought 
up to a knowledge of farming it was but natural that he should devote his attention 
to that calling upon taking up his residence in this section. His marriage with 
Miss Smith resulted in the birth of the following children: John, who is farming 
in Kosciusko county, has a large family; Mariah, who married Joshua Yoder, who 
is deceased; Abraham is also deceased; Samuel, deceased; Jacob is living in Ne- 
braska; Daniel, deceased; Susan, Joseph and Benjamin died in Canada; Solomon; 
Sally, now Mrs. Brown, of Union township; Jonathan; Noah is farming iu Noble 
county. Upon the arrival of the Stump family in this section they settled on the 
farm on which the subject of this sketch is residing, and they began energetically to 
clear the land and break the soil. They erected a log house with a puncheon floor, 
and they had considerable means upon coming here. The early life here was not 
marked with as many hardships as usually fall to the lot of the pioneer settler, al- 
though they had to put up with many inconveniences and were compelled to labor 
early and late in order to clear the large amount of land which they owned, 
which consisted of thirteen eighty-acre tracts. The founder of the family in this 
section paid the last debt of nature on May 7, 1877, having for many years been a 
bishop of the River Brethren Church, having charge of a circuit at the time of his 
death. Although Solomon Stump was born and spent the first eight years of his 



MEMOIltiS OF INDIANA. 537 

life under the protection of the British lion, he is nevertheless a patriotic son of 
Uncle Sam, and since becoming a resident of Elkhart county he has identified him- 
self with her every interest and has ever cast his influence on the side of justice and 
right. He is a public-spirited man, and during the fifty-four years that he has been 
a resident of this county, naught has ever been said derogatory to his honor. He 
has witnessed the growth of the country from a primitive wilderness to its present 
flourishing agricultural condition, and has done his full share in bringing about this 
most desirable result. He was twenty-six years of age when he was married to 
Mary Troup, who was a native of the county, born in 1836, and their union result- 
ed in the birth of four children: Ephraim, Sally, Susan and Jesse. Ephraim 
married Margaret Wiltfong; Sally married Jacob D. Pippenger, and Susan mar- 
ried Chris. Umbaught. The mother of these children died November 24, 1883, and 
for his second wife Mr. Stump took Eliza Borger, July 19, 1885, her birth having 
occurred in Lancaster county, Penn., April 22, 1837, a daughter of Philip and 
Saloma (Slussen) Borger, Pennsylvanians, who are both now deceased. Their 
family consisted of ten children: Netta (deceased), Amelia, Mary, Lydia (de- 
ceased), Jacob, Eli, Esther, Eliza, Macine and Caroline. Solomon Stump remained 
with his father until the death of the latter, when the estate was divided up and 
eighty acres surrounding the old home fell to his share, each of his other children 
falling heir to alike amount. He and his worthy wife have ever been observant of 
all the amenities consistent with their sphere and position in life and have always 
been noted for their generosity and largeness of heart. Mr. Stump has always been 
prudent and wisely economical in his manner of living and now is enabled to enjoy 
the fruits of his early labor and of a life well spent. 

Ephraim Stdmp is the eldest son of Solomon Stump. He was born on the home 
farm in Elkhart county, Ind., October 2, 1857, where he was reared to manhood and 
received his education in what is known as the Stump school, which was in the vicinity 
of his home. He remained with his father until he reached manhood, and in 1887 
began farming for himself on the place where he now lives, which consists of eighty 
acres. In 1888 he united his fortunes with those of Margaret Wiltfong who was 
born in Olive township of this county on September 20, 1864, a daughter of 
Elias and Anna B. Wiltfong, being the second daughter of the family that con- 
sisted of four children: Kate, Margaret, Susan (who died at the age of two years) 
and Nancy. Soon after their marriage Ephraim Stump and wife began bending 
their energies to the improvement of their home, and since then he has been rea- 
sonably successful as a general farmer. He has a fertile tract of sixty-eight acres 
under cultivation, and if it is very carefully tilled it will yield as large an income as 
the general average farms; the rest of his land is covered with timber and is con- 
sidered valuable. Mr. Stump's union has resulted in the birth of two children: 
Herman who was born December 26, 1888, and Mary A., born August 12, 1890. 

Daniel Bechtel (deceased). Among the noble men of Elkhart county, Ind., who 
fulfilled their destiny and are now no more, may be mentioned Daniel Bechtel, whose 
walk through life was characterized by the most honorable business methods, by his 
devotion to his family, and by the interest he took in the welfare of his fellow men. 
He was the founder of one of the most prominent families in the county, and although 
the history of this section is tilled with the deeds and doings of self made men, no 
one in Elkhart county is more deserving the appellation than Mr. Bechtel, for he 
marked out his own career in youth and steadily followed it up to the time of his 
death, which occurred in Harrison township, this county, June 16, 1890. He was 
born in Huntington county, Peun., October 15, 1822, and was the only child born 
to the union of Henry and Barbara Bechtel. Henry Bechtel's parents were born in 
Germany, but at an early date crossed the ocean to the "land of the free" and 
settled in the Keystone State, where Henry was born. The latter was an early 
pioneer of Huntington county, was highly respected as an upright, honorable citi- 
zen, and reared his five children to be esteemed and respected citizens. He was 



538 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

twice married, the mother of our subject dying when the latter was but a child, and 
Mr. Bechtel became the father of four children by a subsequent marriage. These 
children are all living, reside in Blair county, Penn. , and are named as follows: 
Susan, Barbara, Mary and John; all are honest, upright citizens. Daniel Bechtel 
was reared on the old home place in Pennsylvania and there learned habits of indus- 
try that remained with him through life. Early taught the duties of the farm, he 
continued to discharge them on the home place until the age of twenty one, when 
he married. Soon after this he emigrated to the Buckeye State, settled in Stark 
county, and there resided for a year and a half. In 1854 he emigrated to Elkhart 
county, lud., and bought eighty acres of land, on which he settled and lived a pioneer 
life until he succeeded in clearing the land, which was covered with timber. This 
took years to accomplish, and as he had very little means to start with, he went in 
debt for the first laud he bought. By much hard work and any amount of perse- 
verance he succeeded in clearing his farm and converting it into one of the finest 
ones in the township. So well did he manage his agricultural affairs that he not 
only paid off all his indebtedaess, but bought more land, and at the time of his 
death owned a very large estate — over 500 acres — and was worth about $75,000. He 
remained on the old home place until about 1884, when he moved to one of his other 
farms near the original tract. His wife is still living and resides on this place. Mr. 
Bechtel was a man possessed of generous, true-hearted and hospitable instincts, and 
being kind and sociable in disposition he won numerous friends and rarely lost them. 
He was very liberal with his means in contributing to enterprises of worth, and be- 
ing a man of intellect, who kept himself thoroughly posted on the current topics of 
the day, his wealth was used to a good advantage. He was married in Pennsylvania 
to Miss Sarah Neterer, a native of Pennsylvania, born in Bedford county, October 
21, 1821, and the daughter of Jeremiah and Peggie (Rouderbuck) Neterer. Mr. 
Neterer was a prominent man in Pennsylvania and made a good citizen. The mother 
was born in the same State and died there when about thirty-five years of age. She 
was the mother of five living children: Michael, Levi, Samuel. Sarah and Mary. 
The father was married the second time and two children were born to this union: 
Elizabeth, and one who died in infancy. Of these children the only ones now liv- 
ing are Mrs. Bechtel and Samuel. The parents of Mrs. Bechtel were born in 
Bedford county, Penn., the former the son of Jacob Neterer and the latter the 
daughter of Michael Rouderbuck. Both families were early settlers of that county, 
very prominent people, and of German descent. Mr. Neterer died in Pennsylvania 
in 1865, when seventy-six years of age. He had followed the occupation of a 
farmer all his life, was a member of the Dunkard Church, and in politics a Dem- 
ocrat. Mrs. Bechtel spent her early life in Pennsylvania and after marriage emi- 
grated to Ohio. Nine children were born to her marriage, six of whom are living: 
M.-jry A., who died at the age of fifteen years; Samuel, who died in July, 1887 
(see sketch); Henry; Jeremiah; John; David (see sketch of all); Caroline, married 
Henry Nye and died in 1886, leaving five children; Louella; Sadie; Amanda; 
Daniel and Rosa. Sarah married Mr. McDonald and Amanda married Wilson 
Starbaugh (see sketch). Mrs. Bechtel is now seventy years of age, is an intelligent 
and well-posted lady, and by her many womanly qualities of mind and heart has 
won a host of warm friends. Her children are all worthy citizens and classed 
among the best people of the county. She has attended 130 births in the county, 
and most of these in the neighborhood where she lives. 

Samuel Bechtel (deceased). It is always a pleasure to deal with the history of 
one who is a member of one of those grand old families who have for generations 
been distinguished for patriotism, the genuine spirit of Christianity and the strong 
characteristics which have made them men of mark. Samuel Bechtel was born in 
Blair county, Penn., December 27, 1844, and was a descendant of one of the repre- 
sentative families of Elkhart county, lud. He was the eldest son born to Daniel 
Bechtel (see sketch), and when but a boy was brought by his parents to Elkhart 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 539 

county and reared amid the pioneer Burroundings of Harrison township. He obtained 
a good business education in the common schools of that township, but being of a 
studious turn of mind, he was mainly self-ediicated, all his spare time being spent 
with his books. He was a man possessed of excellent business acumen, generous, 
true-hearted and hospitable instincts, and, being kind and sociable in disposition, he 
■won numerous friends and rarely lost them. His death, which occurred July 1, 
1887, was the occasion of universal sorrow, for all felt the loss to be sustained by the 
departure of such a friend. As a business man he had few equals and, although he 
was self-made and started at the bottom of the ladder, he climbed to the top round 
of success in social and business circles. When the tocsin of war sounded to arms 
during the late unpleasantness between the North and South our subject donned his 
suit of blue, shouldered his musket and August 13, 1862, enlisted in Company E, 
Seventy-Fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. The only time he ever disobeyed his 
father was when he enlisted. He served until June 9, 1865, and was then dis- 
charged at Washington, D. C. He was a good and faithful soldier, participated in 
man}' battles and was wounded once in the hand. A prominent member of the 
Masonic fraternity, he was much interested in this order and was a member of the lodge 
of Nappauee at the time of his death. He was also a member of the G. A. R. lodge. 
For eleven years before his death he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
and assisted in building the new church at Nappanee. He took a great interest in all 
worthy movements and none were allowed to fail for want of support on his part. 
In 188-1 he and his father and brother Henry established the Farmers' & Traders' 
Bank of Nappanee, the first bank in that town, and it is now owned by Samuel 
Coppes & Son. This he operated successfully until his death. Mr. Bechtel was a 
shrewd, far-seeing business man, a banker of the soundest judgment and a public 
spirited and progressive citizen. He made a good property and at the time of his 
death left a large estate of land and town property. He was accidentally killed in a 
gravel bank near Nappanee. May 1, 1877, he was married to Miss Mary Myers, a 
native of Hillsdale, Mich., born July ]3, 1854, and a daughter of Andrew and Rosena 
(Negline) Myers, both natives of Germany. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Myers 
came to this country and settled in Michigan, where they lived at Hillsdale. Shortly 
after the birth of their daughter Mary they moved to Elkhart county, settling in 
Goshen. Since that time Mr. Myers has been a resident of this county. He was 
the father of six children, as follows: John G. S. Myers, M. D., who is well known 
in Indiana; George F., a resident of Indiana; Anna L., wife of Frank Plank of New 
Paris, Elkhart county; M , the wife of Jacob Nald, of Nappanee; Andrew, resid- 
ing in Chicago and Mrs. Bechtel. The latter was a child when she came to this 
county and has passed nearly all her life in Goshen. She taught in the schools of 
that town for some time and is a woman of fine character and much learning. After 
marriage she and her husband made their home in Goshen until 1884, when they 
moved to Nappanee and there resided until the death of Mr. Bechtel, when she 
returned with her children to Goshen. The children are named as follows: Daniel 
M. , born November 12, 1878, attending school; Esther, born December 18, 1880; 
Joy G., born May 23, 1884; Samuel B. , born June 30, 1886, and died September 13, 
1887. Mrs. Bechtel believes in the Christian religion, is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church and is a regular attendant at its services. 

John Bechtel is not only a gentleman in every sense of the word but as a busi- 
ness man is shrewd, practical and far-seeing, well qualified to discharge the nec- 
essary duties of life and well adapted to the active life he has led. He comes of one 
of the finest families of the county, being next to the youngest brother born to 
Daniel and Sarah (Neterer) Bechtel, whose sketch precedes this. He is a product 
of the county in which he now resides, his natal day occurring on June 11, 1854, 
on the old family homestead in Harrison township, on which his brother-in-law, 
Martin McDonald, is now residing. The common country schools in the vicinity 
of his home furnished him with a fair education, but the general routine of his life 



540 PICTORIAL AND BIOOBAPHICAL 

did not differ materially from that of the average farmer's boy, for his winters were 
thus spent in his efforts to secure an education and his summers in assisting on the 
home farm. He remained with his father until he was twenty-five years of age, 
then started out to do for himself and with his brother Jeremiah, began working in 
the saw mill in Union township. During the four years that he followed this 
occupation his efforts were crowned with success, but at the end of that time he 
purchased ninety acres where he now lives, which even then was a well- improved 
place. The work of farming has proved a congenial occupation to him, and as he 
is of a very energetic temperament, his worldly possessions have continued to in- 
crease in size, until he is now regarded as one of the wealthy farmers of the town- 
ship. He also gives a considerable portion of bis attention to the raising of 
cattle and especially sheep, an occupation for which his farm seems well adapted, 
and for which he seems to have a decided taste. He has always taken an active 
part in politics, has held the ofBce of Justice of the peace for four years and was re- 
elected, but not caring to devote his time to the oifice did not qualify. As he has 
always been interested in the public-school question, he has been appointed by the 
court, on various occasions, as trustee for different heirs and guardians. His success 
in life is owing to his own push and enterprise and also to the fact that in his 
vocabulary there is no such word as fail. He is a man whom to know is to honor, 
and his numerous friends testify to his many worthy qualities as a citizen, friend 
and neighbor. In the fall of 188-4 he united his fortunes with those of Miss Susan 
Clouse, who was born in Harrison township, Elkhart Co., Ind., December 6, 1863, 
and in this county grew to womanhood. She is the mother of one daughter, 
Myrtle, who was born on June 17, 1891. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtel may well be classed 
among the prominent young people of the county, for they are well known and com- 
mand respect from all who have the honor of their acquaintance. They have a very 
fine farm and the improvements thereon are much above the average, being a very 
substantial and attractive kind. They have a large brick residence, a fine and com- 
modious bank barn which will hold a large amount of hay and grain and will accom- 
modate a great deal of his stock. Mrs. Bechtel is the daughter of Daniel and Mary 
(Jones) Clouse, the former of whom is now a resident of Kosciusko county, Ind., and 
is residing on a farm near Milford. Daniel was born in Pennsylvania to John and 
Susan Clouse, also of that State, who early became residents of Ohio and later of 
Elkhart county, Ind. Daniel was one of ninechildren: Sarah, Susan, Mary, Daniel, 
Benjamin, AVilliam, Lina, Laviua and Rebecca. In the State of Ohio Daniel 
Clause and Mary Jones were married, after which they removed to Elkhart county, 
Ind., and for many years resided in Harrison township on a farm, but later took up 
their residence in Kosciusko county. They had a family of three sons and four 
daughters: Eliza, Caroline, Chauncey, Joseph, Noah, Susan (Mrs. Bechtel), Melissa. 
Mrs. Clouse is a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Humenell) Jones, who were early- 
settlers of Madison county, Ohio, and the parents of sis children: Mary, Levi, 
Henry, Eliza, David and Daniel. Mr. and Mrs. Jones have been residents of Harrison 
township, Elkhart county for many years and have long been members of the 
Mennonite Church. Mr. and Mrs. Clouse lived in Ohio for some years, but have long 
been residents of Elkhart county, and here reared their family of ten children: Eliza, 
who married Louis Clipp, a well-to-do farmer, has six children; Caroline, wife of 
David Greenham, of Nappanee, has eleven children; John, died at the age of fifteen 
years; Chauucy is a farmer of Kosciusko county, is married and has three children; 
Joseph is living in the same county, is married and has two children; Noah lives 
there also, and he and his wife have one child; Daniel died at the age of two years; 
Susan is the wife of John Bechtel and was born on December 6, 1863; Melissa is the 
wife of Milton Brumbaugh, has two children; and Lewis who died at the age of 
eighteen months. The parents of these children are still living on a farm and are 
in the enjoyment of a large circle of friends. Mr. Clouse is a Democrat, politically, 
and has always manifested much interest in the development of his section. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 541 

Henry Bechtel. There is something essentially American in the life and 
character of the gentleman who is the subject of this sketch. The United States 
has given rare opportunities to men with courage, honesty of purpose, integrity 
and energy, to achieve success. The bulk of the men who have legitimately achieved 
fortune have been men with the above characteristics, and Mr. Bechtel is sui 
generis one of that stamp. His success as a business man and citizen has come of 
his devotion to right and his tenacity of purpose. There is no man in Elkhart 
county, Ind., who stands higher in the estimation of the people, both in business 
and social circles, than he, and no man has done more to advance the interest of the 
county. Mr. Bechtel was the third child and second son born to Daniel Bechtel (see 
sketch), his birth occurring in Blair county, Penn., April 6, 1846, and was only a child 
when his parents made the trip to the Buckeye State. Later they moved 
to Elkhart county,Ind., and he there gained a practical education in the district 
school -if Harrison township, but much of his time was given to clearing the farm, 
for he was put to work as soon as possible. Until twenty-one years of age 
he labored manfully on his father's farm, clearing and grubbing in the woods, 
thus gaining a thorough knowledge of the lumber trade; and the only break in this 
monotonous employment was when he enlisted in the army when seventeen years of 
age. He went out to service in Company D, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Indiana 
Volunteer Infantry, was in active duty for 100 days, the term of his enlistment, and 
was then discharged. Six days later he re- enlisted in Company D, Thirty-fifth 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served twelve months, taking part in a number of 
hard-fought battles and many skirmishes. His first engagement was at Pulaski, 
Tenn. Later he was in the bloody battle of Franklin, Tenn., and in the 
battle of Nashville, that State. Upon his second enlistment he was promoted to 
corporal, and held that position until cessation of hostilities. He was a brave and 
gallant officer, was ever to be found at the front and discharged his duties in an 
able and most efficient manner. He was never wounded or taken prisoner. His 
discharge was received in Texas at the close of the war and he returned home, where he 
remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He was one of 
the youngest soldiers from Elkhart county, and his conductduring that trying period 
is spoken of in the highest praise by all his surviving comrades. When he reached 
his majority Mr. Bechtel started out to fight the battle of life, and after a few years 
as an agriculturist he branched out in the saw-mill and lumber business. In that 
he met with excellent success and for twenty years was engaged in that line, but at 
the same time he embarked in other business enterprises, all of which have netted 
him substantial results. He has carried on agricultural pursuits in a very successful 
manner, and as a stockman he has few equals and no superiors in the county. He 
is now residing in one of the best improved farms in Elkhart county, Harrison 
township, and since 1888 has been a member of Elkhart County Draft Horse Importing 
Company. He, in company with John Whisler, Peter Tallens and Emil Goormachtigh, 
own the Spring Brook Stock Farm, and this company is one of the strongest and most 
pojjular enterprises in the county. This company is engaged in importing Belgium 
Draft and German coach horses, and they have a large barn on Spring Brook 
Farm where they can accommodate several hundred head of horses. Mr. Bechtel 
is a reliable business man, is held in the most favorable repute, owing to his en- 
terprise and his upright, honorable business methods. He formerly had an interest 
in the Farmer's & Trader's Bank at Nappanee, and is now a stockholder in the 
State Bank of Goshen, organized in 1892. For the past few years he has been en- 
gaged in many paying enterprises with Mr. John Whisler. Mr. Bechtel is the 
proprietor of an extensive carriage factory at Wakarusa, managed by John Witmer 
and there manufactures all kinds of carriages and buggies, also carts, and harness 
of all kinds. This business under Mr. Bechtel's supervision has grown to be a com- 
plete success and many hands are employed. In politics our subject supports the 
principles of the Rspublican party and takes a deep interest in the political issues 



542 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

of the day. He has ever been active in his support of all worthy enterprises, and 
no man has done more toward the improvement and development of the county 
than he. All his accumulations are the result of his own exertions except what was left 
by his father at his death, in 1890. In 1867 Mr. Bechtel married Miss Mary Otto, 
daughter of John and Polly (Price) Otto, who for many years have been residents of 
Elkhart county, and are now residing in Goshen (see sketch). Mrs. Bechtel was 
born in Ohio, May 30, 18-18, and died in 1888, having become the mother of six 
children: Alice M., born August 17, 1888, the wife of John C. Shank, a prominent 
young farmer of Harrison township, who comes of one of the leading pioneer families 
of the county and is now residing on the old Shank homestead: Charles I. was born 
February 1, 1871, and is a book-keeper in the buggy factory owned by his father 
in Wakarusa; Sarah J. was born August 16, 1873, is an accomplished young lady; 
Nora G. was born May 2, 1878; Daniel O. was born May 11, 1880; and John H., 
who was born June 17, 1882. The mother of the children was an earnest Christian, 
and reared her family to be a credit to her. On December 19, 1891, Mr. Bechtel 
took for his second wife Amanda J., the daughter of Peter Nusbaum, an old 
pioneer of the county; and they are living in the enjoyment of many friends and 
a comfortable income. 

David Bechtel, the youngest son of Daniel Bechtel, was bom on July 7, 1863, 
on the old homestead in Harrison township, Elkhart county. He was reared to the 
life of a farmer's boy, thoroughly learned the practical details of this work, and in 
the common schools near his home he gained a fair business education. He re- 
mained with his father assisting in the management of a large farm, and upon the 
death of the latter the entire management of the place fell upon his shoulders, and 
found them in every way broad enough to bear their burden. He not only tills 100 
acres of his own, but also has the management of a like amount which belongs to 
his mother. He is a steady, energetic and upright young man and in the conduct of his 
afEairs has shown that he possesses good business judgment and foresight and is thor- 
oughly alive to the fact that "The Lord helps him who helps himself. " Politically 
a Republican, he has taken much interest in the afEairs of his section, and is always 
found ready to assist enterprises that, according to his excellent judgment, are likely 
to benefit the section in which he resides. He possesses superior business ability, as 
the thrifty appearance of his land would indicate, and through his own exertions has 
made rapid advancement on the road to success. Stockraising is to him one of the 
most agreeable branches of his line of work, and he is considered one of the intelli- 
gent stockmen of his section. Through current literature and practical experience 
he keeps himself well posted in agricultural matters and possesses intelligent views 
on all matters of general interest. In 1891 he was married to Emma, daughter of 
Abraham and Louesia (Wehmeyer) Shank, who were early pioneers of Harrison 
township and are now deceased. Mrs. Bechtel was born February 22, 1866, grew 
up in Harrison township, obtained a good education in the district schools and being 
an intelligent and amiable lady, is much admired by all. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtel 
both sprung from fine old pioneer families, who did much to make the country the 
fine agricultural region that it is, and have every reason to be proud of their ancestry. 
They are among the most popular and useful youug residents of the county and are 
deservedly popular. 

Professor William H. Sims is one of the prominent educators of northern 
Indiana, and of Scotch-Irish descent, his father, William Sims, having been born 
near Glasgow, Scotland, at Kilmanoch, in 1811. The grandfather, James Sims 
was a mechanic of that village. He married Miss Mary Primrose and became the 
father of six children: Mary, William, James, Alexander, Robert and Andrew. 
James Sims was a Scotch Presbyterian, and one of his brothers was connected with 
the famous rebellion in Scotland. He passed the principal part of his life in his 
native country, but when quite advanced in years crossed the ocean to America and 
here received his final summons, dying in Cincinnati on his way to locate in Indiana. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 545 

William Sims, bis son, and the father of our subject, received but limited scholastic 
advantages in youth, for when quite young he began learning the cooper's trade of 
his father. When eighteen years of age he braved Neptune's tender mercies and 
came to America, locating at La Fayette, Ind., where he worked at his trade for 
some time. lu a short time he entered eighty acres of land in Clinton county, Ind., 
and on this settled with his widowed mother, who kept house for him until after he 
had reached the age of twenty-one years, when he married Miss Mary Ferguson 
daughter of Henry Ferguson. Henry Ferguson was of Irish descent; his immediate 
ancestors came to America at an early date. Settling in Kentucky he remained there 
for many years, and then moved to Hamilton county, Ind. He reared a large family. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Sims were born seven children, as follows: Nancy, James, Robert, 
Lois, W. H., Mary and Margaret. Mr. Sims had the characteristic Scotch grit and 
pluck, and by thrift and industry improved his original tract of land until he owned 
over 300 acres, one of the finest farms in Clinton county. He began with nothing 
but a knowledge of his trade, a stout heart, hardy constitution, and a determination 
to succeed. He was a pioneer of Clinton county, one of the county's honorable, 
upright citizens, and a friend to all good causes, especially to education, giving all 
his children a good education. His integrity and uprightness were above reproach, 
and he early impressed all his children with good principles and a love of truth. 
He naturally possessed a bright intellect, had a great love for literature, and became 
well informed on all the best writers, especially historical writers, and on all the 
important events of his day. In politics he was a Democrat until the war, after 
which he affiliated with the Republican party. He was a strong Union man during 
the war, and sent one son, Robert M., to the armj\ The latter became first lieuten- 
ant of Company D, Seventy second Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry — after- 
ward mounted and armed with Winchester rifles and known as Wilder' s Brigade. 
The principal business of this brigade was to pursue guerrillas who were annoying 
the Union troops. Lieut. Sims was wounded in a skirmish with guerrillas in 
northern Mississippi, and permanently disabled. Prof. W. H. Sims, son of William 
Sims, was born July 10, 1845, on his father's farm in Clinton county, Ind., and was 
early trained to farm life. He received the usual district-school education., and sub- 
sequently attended Union Academy at Lebanon, Ind., for two years. After this he 
taught school in Clinton county two terms, and then embarked in mercantile pursuits 
in Thorntown, Boone county, continuing this for about two years. Afterward he 
attended the National Normal University at Lebanon, Ohio, and then entered upon 
what has since been his life work — an educator. Prof. Sims was successful from the 
start, and as an instructor his peculiar capabilities shine forth in their brighest 
splendor. He was principal of the school at Greenfield, Ind., and afterward princi- 
pal of the schools at Cambridge City, Ind., for two years. In 1884 became to 
Goshen and will soon have rounded out a decade as superintendent of the city 
schools. Prof. Sims has, as is shown by his long stay in Goshen, made teaching a 
complete success and his untiring energy, unflagging zeal, and ceaseless devotion 
manifested in the promotion of educational improvements, have been highly appre- 
ciated. Since coming to Goshen the attendance has increased more than one-fourth. 
There are about 1,300 pupils. The high school, showing the most marked increase 
of from sixty to 135 pupils, now employs four teachers instead of two. In 1884 the 
full number of teachers was twenty- one, but is now thirty-one. One new building 
has been erected, doubling the capacity, and other buildings have been greatly 
enlarged. The kindergarten system has been introduced in the primary department, 
manual training has also been introduced with marked benefit, and an effort will be 
made to enlarge these departments. Since Prof. Sims has had charge of the schools 
he has completely abolished the old method of discipline, corporal punishment 
being abandoned, and finds a better feeling resulting from milder methods, better 
discipline obtained, and mutual respect is gained. The old feeling that a teacher is 
a hard and merciless taskmaster is replaced by confidence and a spirit of emulation. 



546 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Socially Prof. Sims is a member of the I. O. O. F. Both he and Mrs. Sims are 
members of the Presbyterian Church and he is superintendent of the Sabbath-school. 
Politically a stanch Republican, he is an earnest advocate of the principles of his 
party. Prof. Sims is president of the Northern Indiana Teachers Association and 
was chairman of the executive committee of the same in 1888. He is a member of 
the State Teachers Association, was chairman of the executive committee, and he is 
also a member of the Northern Indiana School Superintendent Club. He is an 
active vyorker and lecturer in the Teachers Association throughout the State. 
Broad minded and liberal, he is in favor of reform and progress, is a liberal patron 
of educational literature and a wide reader. He is a clear thinker, a logical reasoner, 
an expressive talker, and has unique, orderly and systematic methods in educational 
work. In 1867 Prof. Sims married Miss Elizabeth McFarland, and they are the 
parents of one son, Charles G., who graduated from Du Pauw University and is now 
practicing law at Omaha, Neb. Mrs. Sims died five years after marriage, and on 
the 3d of August, 1875, Prof. Sims married Miss Frances Bradley. He owns a 
comfortable home in Goshen and is in prosperous circumstances. He is now in the 
prime of life, of strong natural constitution and vigorous mind and stands deservedly 
high throughout the State as one of the leading educators. 

John Conrad, the second child born to the marriage of Solomon Conrad (see 
sketch of David Conrad), was born on his father's farm in Jackson township, Elk- 
hart Co., Ind., January 13, 1849, and was reared amid pioneer surroundings. Like 
most farmer boys of that period, he attended school during the winter months, 
and assisted in clearing the farm during the summer seasons, and thus engaged, 
remained under the parental roof until twenty-two years of age. He then started 
out to make his own way in life, and on February 9, 1871, was married to Miss 
Eliza Liveringhouse who was the daughter of John and Mary (Lehr) Liveringhouse. 
The Liveringhousps were Ohio people, and John Liveringhouse moved to Elkhart 
county at an early date, and settled in Elkhart township, near Goshen. Later, in 1879, 
he moved to Kosciusko county, and followed farming there for many years. In 
Elkhart county he was married to Mrs. Nancy Miller, a native of that count}', and 
the daughter of one of its pioneers. Mrs. Conrad was born August 25, 1850, and 
was left motherless when but a baby. She attained her growth in Jackson township, 
and attended the district school. She is the younger of two children, the other 
being William. Her father married Mrs. Nancy Miller, and five children were the 
fruits of this union; Lizzie. Mary, Etta, John and Mervin. John died young. 
After marriage Mr. Conrad settled on the farm where he now lives, which was then 
but partly improved, and since then has made many and vast improvements in the 
place, having now one of the best farms in his section. He has eighty acres cleared, 
and most of his attention is given to raising stock and grain. He takes much inter- 
est in politics, his vote being ever cast with the Democratic party. Two children have 
been born to his marriage: Frank, born September 21, 1871, and Fred, born Jan- 
uary 15, 1886. Frank is now twenty-one years of age, and his first presidential vote 
was east for Grover Cleveland in the fall of 1892. He has received good educational 
advantages, supplementing the district school education by attending Milford pub- 
lic schools, and for the past few years he has been assisting on the farm. Mr. Conrad 
and wife are well liked in the neighborhood, and are among the best citizens of the 
count}'. Mr. Conrad and his son are engaged in buying and selling stock, and has 
met with great success in this occupation. The farm on which he lived so many 
years he sold in the fall of 1892. Mr. Conrad is a self-made man in the true sense 
of that term, and is now one of the substantial men of the neighborhood. He and 
wife adopted a daughter, Birtie May, when she was ten months old, and they have 
taken much pains with this little lady, and reared her as their own. She was born 
October 10. 18S2. 

Myron E. Meadek. The position occupied by Mr. Meader as one of the most 
enterprising and energetic young business men of Goshen, has been gained wholly 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 547 

by his excellent business acumen and unquestioned inte^-ity. He is well and favor- 
ably known in Goshen, and although but recently established in his present busi- 
ness, he is rapidly becoming one of the most successful business men of this flourish- 
ing city. He is of English descent, and comes of good old New England stock, bis 
ancestors having settled in this country during colonial times. His father, David 
Header was born in Vermont, and was married at Elkhart to Miss Almira Cole. He 
settled ou wild land a short distance south of Elkhart, and was one of the respected 
pioneer citizens of this county, as well as one of the most substantial farmers. He was 
a member of the United Brethren Church, and in politics a stalwart Republican, and 
a strong Union man. He had one son in the army during the Rebellion; William J., 
who enlisted in the Seventy -fourth Regement Indiana Volunteer Infantry, but who was 
discharged for disability. Later here-enlisted in the one hundred days' service. My- 
ron E. Meader, subject of this sketch, was born March 19, 1856, in Elkhart county, 
Ind., and his early scholastic training was received in the district schools of the same. 
Later he graduated from the Elkhart High School, and then read law with Baker & 
Mitchell of Goshen for four years, being admitted to the bar in 1879. In connection 
with his practice he was also engaged in the real estate and insurance business with J. 
H. Defrees, now of Chicago, under the firm name of Def rees & Meader. Later he was 
in partnership with E. Louis Kuhns in the insurance, real estate and abstract business, 
under the name of Meader & Kuhns, and still later became a partner in the law office 
of Baker & Baker, having charge of the collection and office business. In April, 
1891, he became one of the incorporators of the Ariel Cycle Manufacturing Com- 
pany, and was elected one of the directors. He is also secretary, treasurer and 
business manager of the company, which has a capital stock of $25,000, the full 
amount being invested in their plant. The company has invested a much larger 
amount than their capital stock, at least $100,000. Mr. Meader is the active busi- 
ness spirit, and has built up a large trade amounting to $300,000 annually. 2.000 
machines are manufactured annually, and this large business has been built up 
within a period of two years. The company is now extending the manufactory, that 
its capacity may be increased. Mr. Meader is a practical and energetic business 
man, and stands deservedly high in Goshen for his integrity of character. In Octo- 
ber, 1886, he married Miss Lulu Stephenson, daughter of Andrew J. and Eliza (Felk- 
ner) Stephenson, and one child, Mac E. , has blessed this union. Socially Mr. Meader 
is a K. P., and has filled all the offices in the subordinate lodge, and politically 
he is a faithful Republican. 

John Michael. The sons of Germany are well represented in Elkhart county, 
and they hold conspicuous places in many pursuits which makes that county a sub- 
stantial star in the galaxy of Indiana's many interesting counties. John Michael, 
who is one of the prominent agriculturists of the same, is a descendant of sturdy 
German stock, and no doubt inherits from these ancestors the perseverance and in- 
dustry so characteristic of those of German nativity. His father, Paul Michael, was 
born in the Fatherland about 1772, and received a limited education there. He 
learned the mason's trade in his native country, and was married there to Miss Bar- 
bara Fink, who bore him four children, as follows: Aaron, George, Barbara and 
John, all natives of Germany. The advantages afforded a resident of the United 
States tempted him to cross the ocean, and in 1833, with his family, he took passage 
in an old-fashioned sailing vessel, and was eight weeks and six days in crossing to 
this country. He landed in Baltimore, Md., but went direct to Somerset county, 
Penn., where he bought 100 acres of land. On this he resided for two and a half 
years, and then, about 1836, he moved to Darke county, Ohio, and settled in the 
woods. He first bought sixty-two acres, and immediately began clearing and im- 
proving this. On this he resided for eighteen years and then, in 1854, moved to 
Elkhart county, Ind., where he purchased 110 acres. Tliis land was partly cleared, 
and on this Mr. Michael died witliiu a year, at the age of seventy-six years. He and 
Mrs. Michael were members of the Lutheran Church and Mr. Michael was deacon in 



548 PICTOUIAL AND BIOGltAl'UICAL 

the same for abont ten or twelve years. In politics he was a Democrat. He had been 
a soldier wheu a yoiiDg mau, and served in the war against Napoleon for four years. 
He served in the hospital for two years. Mr. Michael's repntatioii as an honorable, 
upright citizen was well known, and his word was as good as his bond. He was one 
of those sterling German citizens who came to this country for an honest purpose, 
and from this kind of sturdy German stock have descended many of the best fami- 
lies. John Michael, subject of this sketch, was born in Germany November 22, 
1828, and was five j-ears of age when he was brought by his parents to this country. 
The Ohio country being new, he received but a limited education, not more than two 
months of schooling all told, and when but a small boy all his energies were directed 
toward clearing the different farms on which his father settled. AVhen twenty-four 
years of age he married Miss Mollie Bintuer, and seven children were born to them: 
John Paul, George, Lewis, Edward. Harvey, Lizzie and Caroline. In 1854 Mr. 
Michael came with his father to Elkhart county, settled on the same farm, and here 
he has since remained. His wife died August 10, 1891. She was a lady of superior 
attainments, and his most efficient helpmate when struggling for a start in life. She 
was a member of the Lutheran Church, and Mr. Michael holds membership in the 
same at the present time. In his political views he is a stanch supporter of Demo- 
cratic principles. Public spirited and enterprising, he has ever been interested in all 
worthy movements, and has held the office of supervisor. His son, John Paul, mar- 
ried Miss Kate, daughter of Martin Miller, and is engaged in farming in Elkhart 
township. Five children have been born to them. George married Miss Lizzie Liver- 
inghouse. daughter of John Liveringhouse, and is engaged in carpentering in Goshen; 
they have four children. Lewis married Miss Rettie Goss, and has two children; 
he is a teamster of Goshen. Edward married Miss Elizabeth Snyder, and is a 
farmer of this township; he has two children. Lizzie married Frank lubody, a 
farmer of Harrison township, this county, and they have two children. Caroline 
married Allen Inbody, a farmer now residing on the home place, and is the mother 
of one child. Thus it may be seen that Mr. Michael is the grandfather of sixteen 
children. By indu^itry and enterprise he has added to his property until he now 
owns 1T(> acres of land, a good house, sulistantial barns and out- buildings, and is 
very comfortably situated indeed. He stands high in the estimation of all. 

Leander Anderson, Elkhart. Ind. It is doubtless entirely owing to the indus- 
trious, and persevering manner with which Mr. Andersonhasadhered to thepurs uits of 
agriculture that he has arisen to such substantial position in farm affairs in his 
county. His entire life has been spent within the confines of Elkhart county, and 
as a natural result he is much interested in the progress and development of the 
section and has done his full share in making it the magnilieent farming region that 
it now is. His birth ojcurrel July 12. 1848, his parents being Noah and Mary A. 
(Hay) -Inderson, who were born in Delaware and Pennsylvania respectively. The 
parental grandfather was an Englishman by birth and the maternal grandfather was 
born in Germany and both died in the Eastern States. Noah Anderson first removed 
from the State to Montgomery county, Ohio, but left that State in 1832 to take up 
his abode in Elkhart county. Ind., becoming the owner of 200 acres of land in 
Harrison township, for which he paid the government price. He brought his family 
thither in 1837, and they took up their residence in a little log cabin in which they 
resided until better improvements could be made. Like all pioneers his first resi- 
dence in the State was marked by hard work and numerous hardships, but in time 
he succeeded in clearing his land, which had been heavily covered with timber, and 
converted it into one of the finest farms in the county. He worked for a short time 
at Waterford Mills, which was the tirst mill in the county, and later conducted a 
plow factory at Waterford Mills for some time. His numerous worthy qualities of 
heart and head won him the good will and respect of all with whom he was connected 
or whom he met in a social or business way and as a result he was elected to the 
legislature in 1S6(\ filling the duties of his office with marked ability and to the 



ilEMOIUS OF lyitlAJfA. 549 

general satisfaction of bis political foes as well as friends. He served as county 
commissioner a number of terms, also townsbip trustee and justice of the peace, in 
each and all of which he displayed the workings of an active and intelligent mind. He 
was a stanch Rapublican politically and worked for the good of his partj' on all occa- 
sions, and in the political arena of his section became quite prominent. He died 
September 29, 1874. His wife died in 1885, having presented her husband with 
ten children, six of whom are living: Isabelle, wife of Samuel Kahler of Dixen, 
Illinois; Esther, wife of Nicholas Reith; Uriah of Elkhart; Belinda, wife of B. F. 
Sternberg; Amanda and Leander; L'riah was a soldier in the Seventy -fourth 
Indiana Volunteers, but did not serve long, owing to the fact that he was disabled; 
Warren, who is deceased, was in the One-hundredth Ohio Regiment, but after a short 
service was taken sick and returned home (he died August 17, 1891); Felix died 
February 18 of the same year; two died in infancy. The immediate subject of 
this biography was brought up on the farm and was educated in the public schools. 
Being the youngest of the family he remained at home until his parents died. In 
the fall of 1883 he purchased the place he now owns, which at that time consisted 
of eighty-four acres of land just as nature had fashioned it. This he purchased 
from Isaac Compton, who entered it in 1837, and although it was heavily covered 
with timber he has cleared sixty-five acres and has made many other improvements 
on the place. Besides this he owns eighty acres in Harrison township, which he 
purchased in the same way and has fifty-five acres of this place cleared, and has erected 
a good hjuse thereon. There are few young men of the present day who can boast of 
so much enterprise, and what he has accomplished has been at the expense of 
many days of bard and persistent labor, but the result has Ijeen in every way 
satisfactory. He is the owner of considerable property in Elkhart — two business 
lots on Main street and a livery barn on Harrison street — and is very much inter- 
ested in the progress of his section. He has been justice of the peace of Harrison 
township two terms, but has never been particularly active in political affairs 
although he always exercises his right of franchise. All his success is due to his 
own efforts, for his devotion to business has been great and his energy unflagging. 

Leakder p. Kuetz, twenty-seven years of age, the eighth child of Paul H. Kurtz, 
was born in Harrison township on the old home farm of his father, obtaining his 
education in the school near his home. Like his brother, his services were given to 
his father until he was twenty-one years of age, at which time he hired out to his 
father by the mouth, and remained thus employed for three years. At the end of 
that time his brother. Daniel P. , had returned from the West, and together they 
purchased a threshing machine and outfit, and for two seasons they carried on that 
enterprise in a highlj^ successful manner and to their credit. They then traded their 
machine for the saw-mill which they are now operating, and have made this a pay- 
ing business likewise. All kinds of hard wood lumber is manufactured at their mill 
and a specialty is made of finishing lumber, in the manufacture of which they are 
remarkably successful. They are among the rising lumber and mill men of the 
CDunty, and their product is coming into extensive use, owing to its desirability and 
to the prompt aud upright manner in which these young men fill their contracts. 
While they are both young they have shown more than the average business ability, 
and are winning golden opinions in the business circles of the county. Leander P. 
has always supported Repul)lican principles, is devoted to the welfare of his section, 
and so far as his means will permit he is ready and willing to support laudable enter- 
prises. On October 15, 1891, he was married to Miss Julia Berkey, daughter of 
Peter D. Berkey, a prominent citizen of the county. Mrs. Kurtz was born in Har- 
rison township, on her father's farm, July 8, 1872. This worthy young couple 
reside near the mill and are among the most popular young people of their neigh- 
borhood. 

Henry Paulus, farmer. The subject of this biographical notice is an honorable 
and progressive farmer, and as such no name in the memorial department of this 



550 PICTORIAL AND niOGRAPIIICAL 

work is more worthy of mention. He is a product of the Keystone State, his birth 
occurring in Bedford county, February '28, 1825, to John and Margaret (Martin) 
Paulus, who were also Penusylvanians, the paternal grandfather having lived and 
died in that State. He was a Dunkard minister, and established several churches 
of that denomination throughout the section in which he lived, for he was a faithful 
and earnest worker in the vineyard of the Master. He continued to preach the gos- 
pel until he had reached the e.'itreme old age of ninety two years, and had only 
ceased his active labors one year when he was called from life, his death occurring 
the same day and mouth in which he was born. John Paulus became a resident of 
Montgomery county, Ohio, during the pioneer days of that section, and there made 
his home until his death. Out of a family of thirteen children born to himself and 
wife, only three are living at the present time: Mary, who resides in Kosciusko 
county, Ind. ; Henry, and Jacob, who is a resident of Silver Lake, Kosciusko Co., Ind. 
Daniel, another child, had two sons in the Union army during the Civil war, and Mary 
had a son, David, who was also one of the "boys in blue." In the private schools of 
Montgomery county Henry Paulus was educated, and when not pursuing his studies 
his attention was devoted to agriculture, in the details of which he was thoroughly 
drilled. He was brought up to a knowledge of farming, which occupation he fol- 
lowed on the home place until the death of his parents. In 1843 he came to Elk- 
hart coiinty, Ind., by wagon, and settled at Goshen, where he followed carpentering 
for about three years, after which he farmed on shares for two years. In 1847 he 
became the owner of the farm he now owns and occupies, which at that time had only 
five acres cleared, on which were erected two little log cabins. He paid $4 per acre 
for a portion of this land and $2. 50 per acre for the rest, and after taking possession 
of it immediately began to make improvements, and is now the owner of a first class 
farm, every nook and cranny of which is kept in good order. Besides this fine faim 
of 140 acres he owns one acre in the city of Elkhart. Mr. Paulus is one of the 
pioneers of the township, and has witnessed the growth of the country from a wild 
state to the highest state of civilization, and where once was unbroken forests are 
now waving fields of grain. He well remembers when deer would come within a few 
rods of his cabin and wolves cotild be heard howling throughout the night. They 
wore the homespun clothing of primitive days, and although they were compelled to 
labor hard and do without many of the luxuries which seem so indispensable at the 
present time, they were contented and happy, and prospered in spite of adverse 
circumstances. The first eight years of his residence in the county Mr. Paulus 
helped to raise forty-two cabins and cut the corners for each one of them. They 
swapped work in those days, but for some reason or other Mr. Pauluswas never paid in 
kind, and was compelled to do the principal part of his own work himself, notwith- 
standing the fact that he was very obliging in helping his neighbors. In 1846 Miss 
Susan Cripe, daughter of Daniel Cripe, became his wife, and to them fourteen children 
were born, seven of whom are living: Daniel;Sarah, who resides in Michigan; Eliza- 
beth, who resides in Elkhart; Levi, also of this county; Jacob; Emanuel, and Maggie. 
Mr. Paulus was road supervisor for nine years, and is a memlier of the Dunkard 
Church. He is now retired from active business life, and is in the enjoyment of a 
fortune which his own industry earned him. He had $-tO in cash upon his settle- 
ment in the State, and after many ups and downs he finally found himself out of 
deep water and floating on a prosperous tide. 

Prop. George W. Ellis. It has been truly said that "a good education is the 
best inheritance that parents can leave their cliildren." lliches may take to them- 
selves wings and fly away, but a good education will last through life. One of the 
prominent educators of Elkhart county, Ind., is Prof. George W. Ellis, who in- 
herits all his push, energy and enterprise from good, old Scotch-Irish ancestors. 
William Ellis, grandfather of the Professor, was born in the north of Ireland, of 
Scotch-Irish stock, and was there educated. After reaching man's estate he be- 
came a farmer, and was married on the Green Isle of Erin to Miss Mary Vams, who 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 551 

bore him seven children, as follows: Richard, William, Thomas, Mary, Sarah, Joseph 
ine and James, all natives of Ireland. Led by the promises of the fertile land 
of this country, William Ellis crossed the ocean in about 1832, and first settled in 
Lancaster county, Penn. From there he moved to Holmes county, Ohio, bought a 
large tract of wild land, of which he cleared 120 acres, and became a substantial 
farmer. He and wife were members of the Lutheran Church, and he was an old- 
line Whig in politics. His death occurred in 1S71, when about seventy years of 
age. He was a strict Union man, and had one son, James, in the Civil war. All 
his life was spent in hard labor, and during the latter part of his days he was surround- 
ed by many of the comforts and conveniences of life. His sou, James, father of sub- 
ject, was born August 13, 182S, and received but a limited common-school education. 
He was about ten years of age when he came to America with his father, and as- 
sisted on the home place until seventeen years of age, when he began learning the 
blacksmith's trade. He was married in Holmes county, Ohio, to Miss Mary Thomp- 
son, daughter of James and Annie (Luzzard) Thompson, and the following chil- 
dren were born to them: John, Seth, George VV., William S., Alice and Elmer. In 
1855 Mr. Ellis moved to Stark county, Ohio, and worked at his trade there, be- 
coming foreman of the Agricultural Implement Works, of Milton, Ohio, now Wil- 
mott, Ohio. There he passed the remainder of his days, dying in 1870. In 
1864: he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Sixty-third Regiment Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry, as a private and was soon promoted to the rank of second 
lieuteuaiit. Shortly after being in the service he was taken sick and was honor- 
ably discharged, but was never able to do any manual labor after returning from 
the army. In politics he affiliated with the Republican party. His character 
was without a blemish and his noble conduct has reflected upon his children, making 
them good and useful citizens. George W. Ellis, son of the above, owes his na- 
tivity to Berlin, Holmes Co., Ohio, born September 15, 1850, and secured a good 
education in the common schools. He subsequently attended Greeubury Semi- 
nary, Somerset Co., Ohio; the University at Smithville, Wayne Co., Ohio, and the 
Mt. Union College, at Mt. Union, Ohio. In 1860 he began teaching in the district 
schools, continuing this twelve years in the schools of Ohio. After this he taught 
six years in the graded schools of Napoleon, Ohio, and in 1884 came to Goshen, 
where he became principal of the Fifth school, continuing with the same for four 
years. In 1888 he was elected county superintendent of Elkhart county and was 
re-elected in 1890. At the first election he was not well known in the county, but 
although there were eleven candidates for the office, he was elected. The second 
time he had a large majority in his favor. Professor Ellis has given the people of 
Elkhart county satisfaction in the management of the schools and has made a rad- 
ical change in the course of study, so that the pupils of the district schools can come 
directly from the country schools to the high school, and after graduating there 
can, if they so desire, be admitted to the State University at Bloomington, Ind. 
Under the administration of Professor Ellis the teachers'institutes are well attended, 
an active interest is shown, a decided improvement made and a very harmonious 
feeling been cultivated among the teachers. An unique feature of the improvements 
inaugurated by Professor Ellis is the exhibit of the county schools at the Elkhart 
Agricultural Association. By the efforts of Professor Ellis a building was erected 
on the Fair grounds, and the first exhibit was made in 1890. This was a grand 
success and much interest was shown by the patrons of the district schools. An ex- 
hibit is made of all the work done in the district schools and on "School day'' the 
children of the county meet with their teacher and a good time is had. A spirit of 
emulation is cultivated by this exhibit, and a good moral effect is produced. Decem- 
ber 3, 1874, Professor Ellis married Miss Ella Bray, daughter of Gideon and Eliza 
(Fallen) Bray. The fruits of this union have been four interesting children: Walter 
C. , Josie E., Mary H. and Frankie B. Socially Professor Ellis is a member of 
the Knights of Pythias, is chancellor commander, and has held all the offices of his 



552 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

lodge. In politics be supports the priuciples and policy of the Republican party. 
The Professor is a man of action, of positive character, and is well informed on all 
subjects of interest. He takes the leading educational periodicals of the day, has an 
excellent reference library and is advanced in all his views. 

Abraham McMains, another of the prominent pioneer settlers of Locke town- 
ship, Elkhart Co., Ind. , came to his present farm in 1843 and since that time has 
been a resident of Locke township. Like many of the esteemed citizens of the 
county he is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Hamilton county, March 29, 
1817, and was the eldest of a family of three children born to Benjamin and Cath- 
erine (Miller) McMains. Benjamin McMains was an early pioneer of Ohio and died 
in that State in 1820. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. His principal occu- 
pation in life was agriculture, but in connection he also followed the carpenter trade. 
In religion he was a Presbyterian and in politics a Democrat. His wife was born 
in Pennsylvania, and was a daughter of Abraham Miller, who was one of the early set- 
tlers of Pennsylvania, moving from that State to Kentucky. He became dissatisfied 
with Kentucky and decided to go farther North and first settled in Preble county, 
Ohio, but later in Hamilton county, that State, where his death occurred. After 
the death of her husband Mrs. McMaius remained in Hamilton county, and there 
her death occurred on the old farm in 1845. In religious belief she was a German 
Baptist. By her first husband she was the mother of three children: Abraham, 
John and Hannah. Her second marriage was to Samuel Gray and to this union 
were born four children: Sarah, Margaret, Benjamin and Catherine. The second 
and third children are living. Our subject's early life was spent on the farm in 
Hamilton county and he became accustomed to the duties of the farm when but a 
lad. When twenty one years of age he started out to make his own way in life 
and in 1843 emigrated to Elkhart county, lud., settling on the tract of land which 
he had taken up in 1838. This consisted of 160 acres, and he began immediately to 
improve it. The country was wild and unsettled, game was abundant, and he had 
all the experiences of pioneer settlers. He has killed quite a good many deer in 
his day but was never very fond of hunting. By good management and persever- 
ance he has become quite well to do and has one of the finest farms in his section. 
When Mr. McMains first came to Elkhart county he had but $10 in money and all 
his accumulations in the way of this world's goods are the fruits of his own honest 
industry. There were but nine voters in Locke township when he located on his 
farm. In politics he is a Democrat and has ever taken some interest in the political 
affairs of the county. At an early day he held office in the township, being town- 
ship treasurer for four years, and he is now one of the public-spirited men of the 
county. He is now seventy five years of age, has rented his farm, and is living 
retired from the active duties of life. He is one of the oldest pioneers of the towu- 
sbiiJ and has enjoyed single blessedness all his life. He has no living kindred in 
this part of the county except some distant relatives. Upright and honorable in all 
his dealings, Mr. McMains is one of the esteemed and respected men of the town- 
ship. 

Chakles D. Henkel. The Henkels are of worthy German stock, and it is sup- 
posed that the family tree first took root on American soil when Rev. Gerhard Hen- 
kel, who was Hofprediger, came to America about the year 1718 and located at 
Germantown, near Philadelphia, Penn. Rev. Gerhard Henkel was a descendant of 
Count Henkel, of Poeltzig, the latter being descended from Johann Henkel, D. D., 
LL. D., born in Leutschau, Hungary, and was father confessor to Queen Maria 
about 1430. He sympathized with Protestantism, and maintained friendly relations 
with some of the leaders who were engaged in the Reformation of the sixteenth cent- 
ury. The manuscript of a prayer-book written by Johann Henkel, is still preserved 
in Breslau. Gerhard Henkel's son, Jacob, was the father of Rev. Paul Henkel, who 
was born December 15, 1854, near Salisbury, Rowan county, N. C, being one of the 
following children born to Jacob and his wife Barbara (Teters) Henkel, their names 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 553 

being: Moses, a Methodist minister of Pendleton county, Va. ; Elizabeth (Creutz); 
Hannah, who was Isiirned to death in a fort during the Indian War; Christena 
(Harmaa); Benjamin; Isaac, a Lutheran minister buried in Rockingham county, 
Va. ; Joseph; John, a Lutheran minister buried under the pulpit of Zion's Church, 
Shenandoah county, Va. Kev. Paul Henkel became a minister of the Lutheran 
Church. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Nagley, who bore him six sons and 
three daughters, five of his sons becoming Lutheran ministers, and the other a doc- 
tor and publisher: Solomon, the doctor; Philip; Naomi (Rupert); Ambrose; Sabina 
(Adams); Andrew, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch; David; Charles, 
and Hannah (Stirewalt). Philip M. Henkel, the son of Andrew and the father of 
Charles D. Henkel, was born at Somerset, Perry Co., Ohio, September 7, 1819, 
his wife, Charlotte P., having been born at Germantown, Montgomery Co., Ohio, 
the latter being also descended from a worthy German family. Philip M. Hen- 
kel and his wife emigrated from southern Ohio to northern Indiana in 1843 and 
thereafter made Goshen, Elkhart county, their home. Their marriage was celebrated 
June 6, 1841, and resulted in the birth of the children whose names are here given: 
Charles D. ; Frederick; Catherine Louisa; Mary Adelaide; Charlotte M. ; Amelia, 
and Vandalaiu. Philip M. Henkel is an agnostic in his religious views and polit- 
ically is a Democrat, and on that ticket was elected to the position of county auditor, 
which position he acceptably tilled from 1851 to 1859. He has acceptably filled the 
duties and relations of life, is a man of shrewd business views and has been a suc- 
cessful financier, and a man highly honored by all with whom he has business rela- 
tions. He is descended in direct line from Lutheran ministers since the days of the 
Reformation, of Dr. Martin Luther. Charles D. Henkel, his son, was born in Ger- 
mantown, Montgomery Co., Ohio, March 29, 1842, but was reared and received his 
education in Goshen. After becoming sufiiciently qualified and upon reaching a 
suitable age he began keeping books in the Salem Bank, with which concern he 
remained two years to the satisfaction of his employer, John Cook, and very much 
to his own credit. For several years thereafter he was in the general produce and 
stock business and in 1870 was elected city marshal, in which capacity he served 
two years. He then went into the county treasurer's office as deputy to Charles 
T. Greene, where he remained some three years, at the end of which time he was 
elected to the position of county auditor. He was a beau ideal public servant, 
faithful and conscientious in the discharge of his duties and agreeable and 
courteous to those with whom he came in contact, for which qualities he became 
widely known and was accordingly in the office for eight years. Since that 
time he has conducted a livery and sale stable, his vehicles and animals, of 
which he has a large number, being in excellent condition and at all times ready 
for use. Like his father before him he is a wide-awake man of affairs, keenly alive 
to his own interests, but never at the expense of others, and his friends and patrons 
who, without doubt, may also be counted among his friends, may be numbered by 
■the score. He was married to Maria A. Marsh, a native of Jamestown, N. Y., Feb- 
ruary 7, 1864, l)y whom he has a family of six children: Louise M. , wife of J. A. 
Beane; Olive M. ; Philip W. ; Isabel M.; Anna, wife of R. D. Piatt of Niles, Mich., 
and Elizabeth. Mr. Henkel has been a life-long Democrat. 

William A. McAllister. This gentleman is one of the oldest and best known 
business men of Goshen, which has been his home since 1853. He owes his nativ- 
ity to the town of Elba, Genesee Co., N. Y., where he was born on March 20, 1817, 
his parents being William and Anna (White) McAllister, the former of whom was 
of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and at the outbreak of the war with Great Britain moved 
to the United States from Canada, not desiring to enter the service of Great Britain. 
He located in New York and was there united in marriage to Mrs. \Yhite, who was 
a native German, but came with her parents to the United States when she was nine 
years of age, her maiden name being Anna Snyder. Prior to her marriage with Mr. 
McAllister she was married to a Mr. White, who was a soldier in the War of 1812, 



554 PICTORIAL ASD BI06RAPUICAL 

and was killed ia battle. Mrs. McAllister died of cholera ia 1822, and of her five 
children one sou died after attaining manhood, and the daughters married and reared 
families. When William A. McAllister was about fourteen years of age his father 
died, and he was left at this early age to battle with the world and its uncertainties 
for himself, and to assist in the care of the widowed mother and her family, consist- 
ing of three sisters and one brother. These duties he cheerfully and manfully 
assumed and creditably and faithfully carried out. Very soon after his father's 
demise he was apprenticed to the harness maker's trade, and at twenty-six years of 
age began business in this line for himself, which, with slight interregnums, has 
been his lifelong occupation. His work is noted for its neatness of finish, its dura- 
bility and its handsome appearance, and he is justly regarded as one of the substantial, 
reliable and competent business man of Goshen. Since coming to the place, he has, 
by his conservatism and social and moral worth, endeared himself to all, and he and 
his worthy wife occupy an enviable position in the hearts and affections of all who 
know them. They are members of the Presbyterian Church, where their useful and 
conservative council is sought, felt and appreciated. Mr. McAllister is a member of 
the Masonic and Odd Fellow orders, and has held positions of honor and trust as a 
member of the city council and school board. In both these positions the wisdom 
of his suggestions were seen and acted upon to the undoubted benefit of the city, 
which was not merely temporary but of lasting benefit. The present high grade 
and excellent school system of Goshen owes much to his timely aid and suggestions, 
and in every walk and condition of life he has been found on the side of right, 
justice and progress. The handiwork and brain work of Mr. McAllister has been 
felt and can be seen in all the reforms and improvements for which Goshen has 
become noted. In 1S44 he led to the hymeneal altar Miss Ellen R Stevens, who owes 
her nativity to Erie county, N. Y., where she first saw the light in 1826. Her 
parents were among the early settlers of Elkhart county, Ind., their residence being 
at Waterford, where they were known to all the early settlers as reliable, law-abid- 
ing and public-spirited citizens. Mrs. McAllister has presented her husband with 
one child, a son — Elbert W., a prominent physician of South Bend, and one destined 
to rise in his profession. Mr. McAllister formerly supported the men and measures 
of the Whig party, but since the organization of the Republican party its tenets 
have recommended themselves to his excellent judgment, and he has supported them 
on all occasions at the polls. Mr. McAllister has always taken an active interest in 
all reforms and enterprises of a public nature, supporting them with both purse and 
influence. 

Das Phillips (deceased). The name which we now give was for many years 
counted as among the pioneer farmers of Locke township, and although Mr. Phil- 
lips has now passed from earth's activities it is but just and satisfactory that we 
recount his life narrative among those who have done such excellent service in 
subduing the wilderness and bringing it into its present splendid condition, physic- 
ally, socially and morally. He was born in Knox county, Ohio, May 29, lS3t\ and 
was one of eight children born to Brice and Honor (Durbin) Phillips. Briee Phil- 
lips was a native of Maryland and followed the occupation of a farmer all his life. 
When quite young be emigrated to Ohio with his mother, who was a widow with 
eleven children, and settled with her in Polk township, Knox county, on forty acres 
of land that she had purchased. She also bought forty acres apiece for the four 
eldest sons, who were small when they first settled there, but who passed the re- 
mainder of their days on those farms. None of these children are now living and 
Brice Phillips was the last one to die, his death occurring March 2, 1SS9, when 
eighty-two years of age, having been born in 1807. His wife. Honor Durbin, was 
also born in Maryland and an early pioneer of the Buckeye State, coming to Knox 
county with her father at an early day. In Ohio the parents passed the closing scenes 
of their lives, the grandmother dying at the age of seventy-eight years. For sixty- 
five years the grandfather was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr, 



aiEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 555 

and Mrs. Phillips were the parents of nine children, eight of whom were reared. 
•James, residing on a farm in Porter county, Ind., was married to Miss Amanda 
Pennrose, who bore him six children: Ira, Honor, Brice, Levi, Stella and Marcus, 
all living. James is a Repul)lican iu his political aflSliations and has held office. 
He and family hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church. Dan (sub- 
ject), .Joseph (deceased), was formerly a resident of Lake county, Ind. He died in 
1884, leaving a wife and four sons, Benton, Robert, Frank and Wilson. Joseph 
was married three times and his last wife and two children are still living. Simon 
(deceased), was a resident of Oswego, Kosciusko Co., lud., and at his death left his 
wife and four children: Jalaly, Honor, Washington and Martha. He was a farmer 
and a wealthy man. Brice is living in Davis county. Mo., is engaged in farming, 
and is a wealthy man. His wife is deceased. Mary, single, died when twenty- 
four years of age, and Honor is now Mrs. Wilson McGinley and resides on the old 
home place in Knox county, Ohio. Her husband was a musician for over three 
years in the Union army. The parents of the above children were among the early 
settlers of Knox county, Ohio, and the father was a Democrat in politics. His 
brother, Reuben, was a soldier in the War of 1812. The Phillips family is of En- 
glish descent and the early members of the family settled in Maryland in pioneer 
days. Dan Phillips was the second in order of birth of the children born to his 
parents, and his birth occurred on the old farm in Knox county. In his early days 
he became familiar with pioneer life, and, like most of the boys of that period, his 
educational advantages were limited. In 1850, when twenty years of age, he emi- 
grated to Elkhart county, Ind., with his father and mother, who were on a visit to 
his brother James, of Marshall county. He located on a farm of eighty acres on 
Section 22. Locke township, and built himself a log house, and began improving his 
place. He had no assistance, but worked for the neighbors in that part of the town- 
ship, thus making money enough to live on, and during spare moments cleared his 
farm. He was considerable of a hunter and killed a large number of deer and was 
the only man known to have killed a catamount in that section after 1850. He was 
an honest, industrious man and what he accumulated of this world's goods was the 
result of his own good fighting qualities. In politics, like his father, he was a 
Democrat, but was a man who took a great interest in his farm. He was a liberal 
contributor to all worthy enterprises and was active in his support of schools and 
churches. He was a member of the United Brethren Church, but attended the 
South Church which was built on his farm, he giving the land for that purpose. 
He was treasurer also of that church. The marriage of Mr. Phillips occurred in 
Locke township, April 21. 1853, to Miss Mary Berry, who was born in Clark county, 
Ohio. March 24. 1833. She was the fourth in order of birth of seven children lx)rn 
to James and Mary fWalburn) Berry. Her grandparents, John and Nancy Berry, 
were natives of Ireland and Switzprland, respectively. John Berry was among the 
early pioneers of Clark county, Ohio, and emigrated to Elkhart county, Ind., in 
1830. He settled on Section 22, and being quite aged, died shortly after coming to 
the county. This was the first death in the neighborhood and the first burial in the 
Union graveyard. Five children were born to his marriage: James, John, Martha, 
Nancy and William. Only James, William and Martha came to Elkhart county, 
and Martha, who was the wife of Charles Blake, a soldier in the Civil war, died in 
1890. William died in this county. James Berry, father of Mrs. Phillips, was 
married and had children when he came to Elkhart county, and he became a large 
land owner. He came by wagon and settled on the farm where his death occurred 
in 1872, when sixty-eight years of age. He was a Whig in politics at first, but sub- 
sequently espoused the principles of the Republican party. He took a prominent 
part in all county aifairs, was public spirited and gave liberally of his means to 
support schools and churches. His wife died on the old home place in Elkhart 
county, September 30, 1881. She was the daughter of Robert and Catherine Wal- 
burn, early settlers of Ohio. James Berry and wife had seven children: John, 



556 PICTORIAL jiND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Catherine, Thomas, Mary (Mrs. Phillips), Robert, Nancy J. and Elizabeth, all na- 
tives of Ohio except the youngest, who was born in Elkhart county. Catherine and 
John were twins. He is deceased and she is the wife of Andrew Kick, of Teagar- 
den, Marshal county. Thomas is living at Warsaw, Kosciusko county, and a man 
of a family; Robert resides on a farm in Locke township and has seven children; 
Nancy J., now Mrs. Jacob Peffly, is residing in Goshen, and Elizabeth married 
James Heaton and is living in Locke township, this county. Mrs. Phillips was 
onl_v seven years of age when the family came to this county and she grew up in 
the neighborhood, attending the early schools of this county. By her marriage to 
Mr. Phillips she became the mother of one child, Reuben T., whose birth occurred 
August 24, 1854, on the old farm in Locke township. For twenty-five years Mrs. 
Phillips has been a member of the United Brethren Church and is a lady possessed 
of many excellent qualities. For the past few years s^he has had quite poor health. 
She is the oldest settler in Locke township, having settled in the same in 1839, and 
is highly esteemed by all acquainted with her. She has experienced all the hard- 
ships of pioneer times, but as she came of good old pioneer stock, braved the trials 
and vicissitudes of those early days with a fortitude truly wonderful. She has been 
deeplj' interested in church and Sunday-school work and contributes liberally to the 
support of the same. Mrs. Phillips died September 23, 181*2. Her son, Reuben 
T. Phillips, one of the most enterprising young farmers of Elkhart county, is re- 
siding on the old home place and also owns the old farm taken up by his grand- 
father Berrj', which consists of 158 acres and is in the same neighborhood. Reuben 
attended the district school of his township during the winter seasons, but in spring 
and summer was actively engaged in assisting on the farm. In 1875 he took charge 
of the farm and since then he has been busily employed in farming and stockraising. 
His father passed away on September 2, 1890, when quite an aged man. Reuben, 
as a farmer, has met with success, although he is not enjoying the best of health. 
He pays strict attention to agricultural pursuits, has fine orchards and groves on his 
place, and is advanced and progressive in his ideas. He takes a deep iDterest in 
politics and is a strong supporter of the principles of his party. In all enterprises 
to benefit the people, such as good roads, schools, drainage, etc. , he is prominently 
identified, and as a member of the United Brethren Church, he takes a leading part, 
being steward at the present time and secretary of the Sunday-school. He is a 
public-spirited young man, honest, industrious and upright, and no one stands 
higher in the estimation of the people. On January 30, 1876, he was married to 
Miss Mary E. Fletcher, a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Swisher) Fletcher. Henry 
Fletcher was born in Ohio and was the son of Jacob and Barbara (Nesslerode) 
Fletcher, his father coming from Ohio where he was born, and settling in Olive 
township, Elkhart Co., Ind., at an early day. (See sketch of Henry Fletcher.) Mrs. 
Phillips was born on March 31, 1858, and grew to womanhood on her father's farm 
in Olive township. She was one of twelve children. By her marriage to Mr. 
Phillips she became the mother of four children, as follows: John I., born April 8, 
1878, a bright boy of fourteen years, is much help to his father on the farm and 
promises to become a good business man; Cornelius T., born January 7, 1880, is 
also assisting on the farm and attending school; Henry M., born December 10, 1883, 
is in the school- room; and Chloe Ethel, born September 9, 1887. Mrs. Phillips is 
a member of the United Brethren Church and is a lady possessed of many excellent 
qualities. 

Daniel Leer. This is one of the oldest and most respected families of Elkhart 
county, Ind., and its members are men and women of more than ordinarN' intelli- 
gence. Jacob Leer, grandfather of the man whose name heads this sketch, was 
born in Pennsylvania, grew to manhood there and was there married. To his union 
were born six children, who lived to mature years, viz. : Abraham. Jacob, David, 
Samuel, Polly and Hannah. Believing that he could do better by emigrating west- 
ward, he left his native State and settled in Montgomery county, Ohio. He was an 



MEMOIIiS OF INDIANA. 557 

old-fashioQed pioaeer citizea ciad a man who woq and held the confidence of all. 
He died in the Buckeye State and was a worthy member of the Dunkard Church. 
His sou, Jacob Leer, was also a native of the Keystoue State, and received a limited 
common school education in both the German and English language. Prior to his 
marriage he came to Indiana and followed the shoemaker's trade, which he carried 
on for several years. He selected his wife in (he person of Miss Mary Statsman, 
and this union was blessed by the birth of four children, as follows: Catherine, 
Daniel, Lydia and John. After his marriage Mr. Leer settled on 160 acres of land, 
which he had entered and which was covered with timber, and he immediately began 
clearing the same. After years of hard labor his efforts were rewarded and he was 
the owner of a very comfortable and attractive home. Both he and wife were mem- 
bers of the Dunkard Church, and for many years he was a preacher iu the same. 
He was one of the honorable, highly-esteemed pioneer settlers, and contributed his 
full share toward improving and developing the country. He lived to be eighty 
years of age. His son, Daniel Leer, was born May 6, 1830, and his early scholastic 
training was received iu the primitive log school-house of pioneer days. As his 
youthful days were spent on a farm, and he was thoroughly familiar with every 
phase of that occupation, it was but natural that when starting out for himself he 
should choose that as his calling in life. When twenty-three years of age he was 
married to Miss MoUie. daughter of Jacob Dillman, and one child, Mary, was born 
to this union. After the death of his wife Mr. Leer married Miss Hannah Cripe, 
daughter of Benjamin Cripe (see sketch), and eleven children were born to them, 
seven of whom reached mature years. They were named as follows: Ira, John, 
Cora A., Hattie, Norman, Robert and Charles. Mr. Leer settled on his father's 
farm after his marriage, received for his share about 50 acres, and is now in com- 
fortable circumstances. In politics he is a Democrat. All his children have had 
good educational advantages and are upright, esteemed citizens. Mary married 
Noah Rensberger, a teamster of Goshen, and they have two children. Cora A. 
married Andrew Danger, and they reside in Goshen. They have one child. Mr. 
Leer is an honorable, industrious man, and one of the respected old settlers. He is 
now residing on land owned by his father more than a half century ago. 

Jonx LowRY. It is with the utmost gratification that the life history of one 
of our brave pioneers is included in this work for he has contributed his full share 
toward developing the country and changing the wilderness into the beautiful and 
prosperous State which Indiana is to-daj\ Since 18-19 Mr. Lowry has been a resi- 
dent of Elkhart county, Ind., and during that time his career as an upright, honor- 
able and industrious citizen has remained untarnished. Like many of the represent- 
ative citizens of the county he is a native of the Green Isle of Erin and is the son of 
Robert and Eliza (Kelley) Lowry. The grandfather, William Lowry, was a Scotch- 
Irishman and a successful farmer of County Down, Ireland. He occupied a tract 
of,land that was leased for ninety-nine years and on this the Lowry family had resided 
for a number of generations, some of the descendants now living on this farm. The 
Scotch-Irish people are a long-lived, sterling class of people and take an honest 
pride in their family and descendants. William Lowry gained a fair education for 
his day and married a lady whose maiden name was Miss Martin. Six children 
were born to them: William, John, Hugh, Robert, Eliza and Catherine. Mr. Lowry 
and family were Scotch Presbyterians and he was deacon iu the church for many 
years. After a long and useful life, he died at the age of eighty-two years. His 
wife was a descendant of a prominent Belfast family of lumber merchants and ship 
owners. After his death the lease descended to his sou, William Lowry, Jr. An- 
other son, Robert, father of our subject, was born on the old farm in County 
Down, and he too was fairly educated for his time and day. Early in life he learned 
the mercantile business in the town of Killileagh, and was married in that neighbor- 
hood to Miss Eliza Kelly, daughter to William Kelley. Twelve children were given 
them and named as follows: William, Eliza, John, Mary, Aujane, George, 



558 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Eobert, Alexander, James, David, Hugh (died iu infancy), and Anna. Mr. Lowry 
followed merchandising for many years, was unusually successful in this and became 
quite wealthy. His children had good educational advantages, his eldest son Will- 
iam, receiving a college education. Mr. and Mrs. Lowry held membership in the 
Scotch Presbyterian church and were upright, straightforward people. Like his 
father, Mr. Lowry lived to a good old age, dying when eighty- four years of age. 
Five of his sons and one daughter settled in America: Alexander (a prosperous farm- 
er iu Missouri), James, Robert, David (a successful merchant in Keokuk. Iowa), John 
and Mary, all of whom married and reared families and are prosperous and respected 
people. Robert Lowry, son of the above ex-congressman was for many years judge 
at Ft. Wayne and is a lawyer still in active practice. James Lowry (deceased) re- 
sided for many years in Milwaukee, \\'is. , and was a master mechanic oq the 
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad. John Lowry, another sou of the above, 

and our subject, was born in County Down, Ireland in 1S15, and received a 

good common-school education. He began for himself by working in the cotton 
mills of his native country and in 1S40 came to America, settling in Maryland, 
where he worked in the cotton-mills at EUicott City, ten milles from Baltimore. 
There he married Miss Madeline Roach and two children were born to this union: 
Eliza, who died at the age of six years, and Lucy whose death occurred when twenty- 
two years of age. In 18-19 Mr. Lowry came to Elkhart county, Elkhart township, 
and settled on a partly cleared farm of sixty acres, which, by industry he cleared 
and made a good home. About 1879 he moved to Goshen and since that time he 
has made his home here. Mrs. Lowry died on August 26, 1891, and had been an 
exemplary member of the Methodist Church for years. Mr. Lowry has also been 
a member of that church for many years. He is a substantial man and owns two 
houses and lots in Goshen. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. Lowry has now 
reached the age of seventy-six years, and although the frosts of many winters have 
whitened his hair and laid their impress in the lines of his face, his intellect is un- 
impaired and many years are still before him. The stock from which he sprang 
has furnished America some of her most prominent men. 

IsA.ic LiVENGOOD. Of the many prominent farmers of Elkhart county, Ind., Mr. 
Livengood is well worthy of mention, for he has resided in this section since he was 
one year old and has ever had its interests at heart. A product of Dark county, 
Ohio, born January 17, 1827, he was a son of Abraham and Catherine (Nofsinger) 
Livengood, who were born in Columbia county, Penn., both the Livengood and Nof- 
singer families being of Dutch extraction. The paternal grandfather, Peter Liven- 
good, emigrated to Dark county, Ohio, during the early history of that section and 
there he was called from life. The maternal grandfather took up his abode in Elk- 
hart county, Ind., in 1828, and settled just below the Beardsley paper-mill on the 
St. Joe River, where he entered some land. After a few years he concluded that 
pioneer life in Indiana did not suit him and he removed to Iowa, in which State he 
died. Abraham Livengood moved to Elkhart county in 1829 and settled on the farm 
which is still in possession of the family. A man by the name of Skinner had a 
claim on this property, but Mr. Livengood gave him a yoke of steers and 
$3 in silver, which liquidated this claim, and then paid §12.25 per acre for 
the remainder. The place comprised IGD acres; on it were erected two little 
log cabins, and after coming into possession of this property Mr. Livengood 
was a very proud and happy man. He broke ten acres of sod with a yoke of cattle, 
and his plow became so dull that lie took it to a blacksmith to have it sharpened, 
but the efforts of the latter did not improve it any and he eventually took it all the 
way to Niles, Mich., for repairs. An old Indian trail passed through his farm and 
Indians often stopped at his home to sta}' over night and to sell huckleberries. Mr. 
Livengood soon began to make better improvements, and now has one of the best 
farms in the county. In early days be was compelled to go to Niles to mill and had 
to ford the St. Joe River. The first year he had but ten acres of corn and grain, and 



ilEilOIUS OF IXJJIAXA. 559 

the meat wbich he had was obtained principally from the surrounding woods and 
the neighboring streams. The father lived a very useful and energetic life and 
died in 1879. He was married twice, his first wife bearing him six children, five of 
whom are living: Isaac, Christopher, who is in Oregon; Ira, of Kansas; Ann and 
Joseph, of Kansas. Mr. Livengood took for bis second wife Mary Whitlig, by 
whom he had a large family: Edgar E., of Kansas; Ellen, of Indiana; William F., 
of Indiana; Alma, of Kausas; Rebecca, of Kansas; Edith, of Indiana; Albert E., of 
Indiana, and Frederick, of Ohio. Isaac Livengood became thoroughly familiar with 
farming and pioneer life in his youth, and many a day was spent in Lard labor in 
assisting his father to clear the home farm. He did not enter a school-room until 
he was ten years of age, then began learning the rudiments in a little log house, 
over whom John Hardy presided. Later he entered school at Jamestown, but the 
facilities for acquiring an education were very poor and he acquired only a fair 
knowledge of the "three E's." His early playmates were little Indian lioys and 
with them he practiced shooting with the bow and airow, in which he became 
quite expert. He wore homespun clothing and low old-fashioned shoes, but not- 
withstanding this was happy and care free. At the age of twenty-two years he 
began learning the miller's trade at Kingsbury, La Porte Co., lud., and for thirty 
years devoted his attention to this occupation at different points, but had always 
made his home on the old place. He was married in 1856 to Miss Hannah Ligget, 
by whom he has two children: Samuel E., of Halstead, Kan., and Sophia E., wife 
of William Farr, of Kankakee county. 111. The mother of these children died in 

1861, since which time Mr. Livengood has remained unmarried. He is a member 
of the Masonic fraternity, and is one of the oldest, most reliable and respected citizens 
of the county. 

John Krau has been a very progressive and enterprising farmer in his day, 
but is now retired from the active duties of life and is enjoying the fruits of his 
early years of hard labor. A native of Germany, he was born at Landenhausen 
Bezirek Lauterbach-Grossherzogthum Hessen-Darmstadt, December 25. 1826, and 
is one of five surviving members of a family of seven children born to George and 
Elizabeth Krau, who spent their lives in Germany. John Krau was educated in the 
land of his birth and upon attaining suitable years began learning the paper-maker's 
trade and from 1848 to 1855 traveled through Germany, Switzerland and part of 
Italy and France making paper and pasteboard by hand and machinery. On May 
25, 1855, he left Paris for Havre de Grace, where he took passage on a sailing vessel 
for America and landed at New York City on July 10, of the same year after a 
forty-two day's voyage. From New York he proceeded to Buffalo, went from there 
by boat to Detroit, from which place he went to South Bend, Ind., where he remained 
for about six months. In the spring of 1856 he began working in the paper-mill at 
Three Rivers, where he remained for over one year. In 1856 he was married to 
Miss Christina Dick, a native of Germany, and the year succeeding his marriage 
went to Rockton, 111., where he worked at his trade until the firm with which he 
was connected became insolvent. Milwaukee, Wis., next became the scene of his 
operations, but after remaining there only a few months he went to Beloit, where he 
made his home until March 1, 1862, when his health failed and he came to Goshen 
and still later to Elkhart, taking up his residence in the latter place in October, 

1862, where he has since been engaged in butchering and stock dealing as well as 
giving much of bis attention to building. He came to this country without capital, 
having only enough to pay his expenses for a few days, but bis industry ami perse- 
verance carried him over this time and he soon found himself out of deep water and 
in receipt of an income which has so increased in proportions that he is now con- 
sidered a wealthy man. He is the owner of two exceptionally fine farms, both well 
improved, consisting of 452 acres, for which he paid §30,000. He has done consid- 
erable building in Elkhart and is the owner of some fine and valuable residences and 
business blocks in the city. He is a gentleman who has always been very enterpris- 



560 I'ICTOIUAL AND BIOG liAl'lI ICM. 

inc, has always been iuduHtrions and pushing and lias done niucL toward building 
up and improving the city of Elkhart. He has four sous: John, William, Charles 
and George, all of whom are intelligent and self-supporting young men and natives 
of Elkhart. Mr. Krau speaks several different languages and is well known for his 
intelligence and sound and practical views on all sulijects of impt)rtance. 

Daniel P. Knitrz is the third .son of Paul and Mary (Shively) Kurtz, a sketch of 
whom appears in this volume. Daniel P. was born in Harrison townshii), near Har- 
rison Center School-house November 25, 1803, was reared to a knowledge of farm life 
and acquired his literary education in the common country schools. While acquir- 
iurr his knowledge of the "world of books" he assisted his father on the farm and 
from his industrious, thrifty and honorable parents learned lessons that have been 
of great benetit to him in his walk through life. Ho remained with his parents until 
twenty years of age, then engaged in the erecting of wind pumps, a calling which 
occupied his attentiou for two years at Ashland, Ashland Co.. Ohio, but his earnings 
went to his parents until he became of age. He returned to his native State and fol 
lowed the same occupation until in the fall of 1SS7, when he went to (California and 
located in Los Angeles county, where he worked at the carpenter's trade for over a 
year. He was quite successful while in that State, and was much impressed by the 
beauty and fertility of the country, but in 1SS9 returned to his native State and 
county and took up the occupation of threshing, which occupation he followed for 
two seasons in company with his brother, L. P. Kurtz, and found it a profitable 
source of revenue. In 1891 they traded their outfit for the property owned by C. 
M. Boutreger & Son, on which a saw-mill was located, and since that time have been 
successfully engaged in sawing lumber and in the general saw-mill business. This 
mill is well equip|)ed anil has a capacity of '20,000 feet per day, and they make a 
specialty of finishing lumber. The plant is located on the Southeast corner of Sec- 
tion 4 and is one of the most valuable of its kind in the county. Besides sawing 
lumber they make large (juanities of lath and also grind feed. They have 
shown themselves to be enterprising and energetic young men and have the entire 
conlidence of all who know them in a business way. Daniel P. is a young man who 
is dee])ly interested in the current issues of the day, is well-read and is decidedly 
piiblic-spirited. He was married June 19, 1892, to Miss Christie Hay, the daughter 
of John Hay (see sketch). They are now living near the mill. Mrs. Kurtz is a 
worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, anil is an intelligent and amiable 
lady. She was reared on her father's handsome and valuable farm west of Goshen. 
She and her husband are much respected in the neighborhooil, where they reside and 
enjoy a wide circle of friends. They give every promise of l)ecoming wealthy and 
fully deserve such good fortune for they are industrious, thrifty and honorable. 
The younger member of the lirm L. P. Kurtz, was born on the old home farm in 
Harrison township, April 10, ISOo, attended the Kurtz School and embarked inl)usi- 
ness with his brother, Daniel P. as above stated. He is an honorable and industri- 
ous young man, and for some tin\e has been inarrie<l to Miss Julia Berkey, daughter 
of the well-known, Peter D. Berkey. They also reside near the mill and are doing 
■well. The efforts of the brothers are being rewarded, and their business is con- 
stantly on the increse. He has never hesitated to put his hand to any honorable 
work and is fully deserving of the esteem in which he is held in his section of the 
county. His career is well worthy of emulation. 

Ecw.\nD Clark. A glance at the lives of representative men whose names appear 
in this volume will reveal many sketches of honorable and influential citizens who 
have resided many years in this county, but among them none are more worthy or 
deserving of mention than Mr. Edward Clark, who is a true typo of a successful 
Indiana farmer. He is not only one of the county's oldest settlers, but one of its 
most worthy and prosperous men. His fine farm, consisting of 100 acres, is situ- 
ated four and a half miles south of Goshen and is kept iu the best condition by 
Mr. Clark, who thoroughly understands everything connected with agricultural 



.VE.UOIUS OF INDIANA. 563 

pursuits. Mr. Clark's grandfather, who was the progenitor of the Clark family in 
the United States, was born in Ireland, but at a period antedating the Revolutionary 
war he crossed the ocean to America, settled in Hampshire county, Va., and became 
a large farmer, owning several hundred acres. He joined with the colonists and 
fought for independence but was captured and held by the Indians for three 
mouths. The four sons born to this marriage were named as follows: Thomas, 
William, Daniel and Hendricks. Mr. Clark lived to be an aged man and received 
his final summons in the Old Dominion. His son, Hendricks, father of subject, 
was also a native of that grand old State, Virginia, born in Hampshire county in 
1793, and there received a limited education. In connection with farming he also 
followed the occupation of a miller for many years. His marriage with Miss Polly 
Bailey resulted in the birth of five children, who were named as follows: Ellen, 
Nancy, Edward, John and William, all born in Virginia. The fertile soil of the 
West tempted him to turn his face toward the setting sun and in 1S35 he settled 
withiu the borders of Stark county, Ohio. He became the owner of eighty acres 
of land and resided on this until 1844, when he moved with his family to Indiana. 
He first settled on Elkhart Prairie, but subsequently moved to St. Joseph county, 
this State, where his death occurred when sixty-four years of age. He and wife 
were worthy members of the German Baptist Church, and he was a preacher in the 
same for many years. At the time of his death he was the owner of 240 acres in 
St. Joseph county. His son, Edward Clark, was born in Hampshire county, Va. , 
April 28, 1821, and received his education in the common schools of that day. 
Agricultural pursuits had been the principal occupation of his ancestors for genera- 
tions, and it was but natural that he should select that as his chosen calling. Besides, 
he had been trained to the arduous duties of the farm from early boyhood. He 
was twenty-three years of age when he came with the family to Elkhart county, Ind., 
and two years later he married Miss Catherine Weybright, daughter of Martin and 
Christina (Rasor) Weybright. Ten children were born to our subject and wife, as 
follows: Hendricks, Christina (deceased), Lavina, Ellen (deceased), John, Sophronia, 
Amanda, Alice, Anna and Mary. After marriage Mr. Clark settled on the Wey- 
bright farm, resided there four years and then bought land in Kosciusko county, Ind., 
where he resided until 1852. From there he moved to his present farm, then con- 
sisting of 160 acres, and to' this, by thrift, economy and hard labor he has added 
until he owns at present about (300 acres. He has given his children 160 acres. Mr. 
and Mrs. Clark are active members in the German Baptist Church and in politics he 
is a Repul)lican. Mr. Clark's reputation as a successful farmer is deservedly high, 
but uo higher than his reputation for uprightness and honesty. He is highly es- 
teemed throughout the community and his word is considered as good as his bond. 
Mrs. Clark's father, Martin W^eybright, was born in Pennsylvania and was the son 
of Martin Wej'bright, Sr. , whose father came to this country from Germany in old 
colonial days. Martin Weybright, Sr., was the father of these children: I\Iartiu, 
Jacob, Frederick, Elizabeth, Susan, Polly, Sallie and Charlotte. The eldest of these 
children, Martin, emigrated to the Buckeye State when a young man and was mar- 
ried there to Miss Christina Rasor, who was also of prominent Pennsylvania stock. 
Nine children were the fruits of this union, all of whom lived to mature years, as 
follows: Jacob, Daniel, Martin, John, Michael, David, Elizabeth, Sallie and Cath- 
erine. All these children were born in Montgomery county, Ohio, where Mr. Wey- 
bright was a successful agriculturist for many years. He was one of the old pioneers 
of that county and settled ten miles from Dayton, where he cleared up a faim from 
the heavy timber. Both Mr. and Mrs. Weybright were memliers of the Baptist 
Church. In 1829. when Mrs. Clark was about fifteen months old, Mr. Weybright 
sold his farm in Ohio and came to Elkhart county, making the journey with a yoke 
of oxen and a three-horse team, and being on the way seventeen days. In the spring 
of that year they first settled on the land now occupied by Jonas Dierdorf, and put 
out a crop of sod corn. Two weeks later he moved to the farm uow owned by \Nill- 



5G4 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPIIICAL 

iam Thomas, on the southwest side of the prairie. The lirst night the family slept 
under the spreading branches of a huge oak tree and the next day the neiglibors 
met together to assist Mr. Weybright to build a log cabin. This was erected and 
places cut out for a door and window; mother earth was the floor to the cabin and 
continued as such until the fall. The bedstead Mr. Weybright made by driving 
stakes in the ground in one side of the cabin and covering them with poles and split 
clapboards. On this was then spread blankets and comforts until it was very com- 
fortable, and in this huge bed the entire family slept until better arrangements could 
be made. Elkhart Prairie is described by Mrs. Clark as presenting a most beautiful 
appearance during the summer months, being covered with many gorgeous flowers. 
On this farm Mr. Weybright passed the remainder of his days, nearly fifteen years 
after settling here. On this farm Mrs. Clark grew to womanhood and the first school 
she attended was taught in a rude log school house near the spot where James 
Latta's barn now stands. She received her scholastic training in four different 
school-houses and received the usual pioneer education. Martin Weybright was 
naturally a religious man and about two years after coming to Elkhart county 
was ordained a preacher of the Baptist Church by Daniel Cripe, the pioneer preacher 
of this county, assisted by other preachers from South Bend. He was an indus- 
trious, hard-working man, and at the time of his death was the owner of a fine farm 
of 400 acres, besides which he had given his nine children 160 acres each, making 
a total amount of 2,000 acres which he had originally owned. The improvements 
on his farm were all first class for those days, the house being log, but plastered, 
and the barn being also a large log structure. He set out a good orchard, and 
being progressive and enterprising, reaped rich returns. His judgment was good 
and he was a man of sterling character. When lacking two months of being 
fifty-eight years of age he passed to that bourne from whence no traveler returns. 
His wife lived to be eighty-seven years of age. At the time of her death there 
were six children living, sixty-two grandchildren, eighty-two great-grandchildren, 
and one great- great-grandchild, making a total of 151 individuals descended from 
this pioneer couple. Mrs. Clark was born February 5, 1828, in Ohio, and she and 
her Inisband have twenty-one living grandchildren. Her sister, Mrs. Elizabeth 
Smelser, is the eldest member of the Weybright family and is now a venerable 
lady of eighty years. She was in her eighteenth year wh&i she came with her parents 
to Elkhart county and can well remember the journey and the old pioneer times. 

George P. Rowell was a pioneer in the fullest sense of the word, for he has been 
a resident of Elkhart county, Ind., since 1835, and during that time he has fought 
the battle of life bravely, has bent the force of circumstances to his will and is now 
wealthy. Mr. Rowell was born in New Hampshire June 12, 1812, a son of John 
and Sarah (Moore) Rowell, who were also natives of the Granite State, where they 
were married. In 1816 they moved to Madison county, N. Y., and a fewyears later 
to Livingston county, of the same State, from which State ho enlisted as a soldier in 
the War of 1812, but did not see much active service. To him and his wife a family 
of nine children were born, six sons and three daughters. These children and the 
parents were strong and vigorous people, and the most of them were exceptionally 
long-lived. George P. Rowell was reared on a farm, and owing to the fact that his 
parents were poor and had a large family, his early days were principally devoted 
to farm labor, and he thus had meager opportunities of obtaining an education which 
could be of any great benefit to him. His early life and the economies he was com- 
pelled to practice instilled in him principles of prudence, energy and push which 
could not fail to bring him in rich returns in later years, and at the present time he 
has a goodly share of this world's goods. He has large real estate holdings contig- 
uous to the city, an abundance of fine stock, his horses being especially handsome 
and speedy. He has always been a lover of the horse, and has owned some of the 
best animals that were ever in the county, his efforts to improve the stock of his sec- 
tion being praiseworthy and to be emulated. His fine farm of 340 acres, one and one- 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAyA. 565 

half miles from Goshen, is one of the finest pieces of property in the county, and he 
also has 100 acres near Milford and excellent and valuable property in Goshen. He 
was married October 10, 1840. to Miss Susan Rodibaugh, who was born in Mont- 
gomery county. Ohio, May 17, 1821, her parents being David and Saloma Rodi- 
baugh, native Pennsylvauians. To this union the following children were born: 
Ira D., Annie E.. Mary C, George W., Samuel J. and Lucy S., all of whom are 
living with the exception of Mary. Mr. Rowell is well and favorably known to all 
the residents of Elkhart county. He is identified with the Democratic party, but has 
never been a very strict partisan. Much of his attention has been given to the 
manufacture of agricultural implements, in which he acquired the greater part of 
his wealth, after which he retired from active service to enjoy a good horse, his 
family and the evening of his life. He is a man remarkably well preserved, in the 
full possession of his faculties and the memories of other days, and being a fine con- 
versationalist he weaves a halo of romance around the days of Auld Lano- Svne. 
He is surrounded by a thrifty family of grown-up children, all of whom are married 
and reside near their old home. Mr. Rowell has never been a member of anv 
church or any secret organization. 

Abijah L. Hcbbell, deceased. All people of true sensibility and a just regard 
for the memory of those who have departed this life, cherish the details of the his- 
tory of those whose careers have been marked by uprightness and truth, and whose 
lives have been tilled up with acts of usefulness. Such a man was Abijah L. Hub- 
bell, who was born in Meigs county, Ohio, at the town of Rutland, January 26, 1816, 
his father and grandfather before him bearing the name of Abijah, and both being 
natives of Lake George county, Vt. They removed to Meigs county, Ohio, about 
the year 1786. The Hubbells were of Scotch descent, and in early colonial times 
came to America and located in New England. The male members were all men of 
large stature, and almost invariably occupied positions of honor in the different lo- 
calities in which the\' settled. The paternal grandfatber was a soldier of tbe Revo- 
lution, being one of the famous Green Mountain Boys, and in the various bloody 
battles in which he participated he conducted himself in a brave and fearless man- 
ner. After his removal to the then wilds of Ohio he and his family suffered many 
hardships and privations, but in time their circumstances became comparatively 
easy. He was the first man to develop the salt industry in the Kanawha Valley, Va., 
and in time succeeded in establishing quite a trade at Cincinnati and other points. 
He reared a large family, and became well known over southern Ohio, Virginia and 
Kentucky. The father of the subject of this sketch was brought up amid the scenes 
and wild surroundings of their pioneer home in Ohio, and in that State after reach- 
ing manhood, he was married to Miss Lucy Merrill, a native of Massachusetts. Her 
father, Capt. Merrill, was also a native of that State, and fi-om early boyhood up 
to the time he moved with his family to Ohio, he followed the sea, visiting nearly 
all portions of the globe, and became a man of wide experience and varied informa- 
tion. He was married at Newberryport, Mass., and in 1785 he and his family be- 
came residents of Marietta, Ohio, of which place they were among the very earliest 
settlers. Abijah Hubbell and his wife, the parents of the subject, made their home 
in Ohio until 1834. in which year they located about five miles northeast of Goshen, 
Ind., where they resided for many years, and were well and favorably known to 
every one. Their first night spent in their new home was an eventful one, for 
their sleeping place was in the snow between two logs, their coveriucr be- 
ing some quilts and boughs of trees. This was only an incident amono- the 
many hardships they endured. In 1854 tbe parents moved to Delaware county, 
Iowa, where they both died in 1863. They reared a family of nine children — five 
sons and four daughters — all of whom reached mature years, and five are yet living. 
The father was a soldier of the War of 1812, serving under Capt. Jesse Hubbell, a 
cousin, and with Gen. Harrison, in the Sandusky country against the Indians. For 
his services he received a pension in his old age. Abijah L. Hubbell. whose name 



56C PICTOIU^IL ASD BIOGliAPlIICAL 

heads this biography, was reared to manhood on a farm in his native State, his time 
and strength in his youth being given to the farm, owing to which his educational 
advantages were somewhat neglected. He had learned the tailor's trade, and at this 
occupation would work during the winter months, his summers being devoted to farm 
labor. He came to Indiana with his parents, and after following the tailor's trade 
in Goshen for some time he engaged in butchering, and still later began clerking in 
a store, where he remained seven years. At the end of this time he and Frederick 
Jackson opened a general store, but five years later this partnership was dissolved 
and he then began wholesaling and retailing groceries, which occupation he con- 
tinued in connection with his son, Frank G., for about sixteen years. In 1884 he 
emljarked in banking, being a director of the City National Bank, the capital of 
which was $77,000 and the surplus $25,500. Mr. Hubbell was chosen president of 
the bank in 1886, which position he retained until the time of his demise, which oc- 
curred May 9, 1892. Beginning life a poor boy he practiced close economy, and this, 
coupled with hard work and unquestioned honesty, enabled him to amass a comfort- 
able fortune. He became the owner of valuable real estate in Goshen and Chicago, 
and besides he was the largest stockholder in the bank of which he was president. 
He was a man who had the courage of his convictions, and defended his city against 
innovators and demagogues, and there were few enterprises of a public nature in 
which he was not interested. Pronounced in his views, clear in his judgment, sup- 
plemented with clear and forcible diction, he stood before the board of county com- 
missioners on many occasions defending the public treasury against the jackals that 
prey on honest people's earnings. He was one of the leaders in the building of the 
court house, jail, buying the poor farm, and in almost every case his judgment was 
never found wanting nor against honest popular feeling. His efforts in the found- 
ing and upbuilding of the Agricultural Society were of the most sagacious order, 
and that work cost him his comfort to the day of his death, for he was thrown from 
a buggy while in the discharge of his duties and received injuries which forced him 
to use crutches ever afterward. Few men were better known to the people of Go- 
shen, or more highly esteemed, and his death was a source of universal sorrow and 
regret. He was three times married. First, in 1841, to Sarah A. Thomas, a native 
of Virginia, who bore him two children: Edward T. , who died leaving one son, 
Harry E., and Frank G. The mother of these children died in 1847, and in 1851 
Mr. Hubbell took for his second wife Miss Lydia Copeland, whose death occurred 
four years later. Mrs. Maria N. AVhittlesey became his third wife February 11, 1858, 
her birth having occurred in Hartford, Conn. , October 4, 1815, her maiden name 
having been Townsend. She came to Indiana with her husband in 1837. Edward 
T. Hubbell served as a lieutenant in the Civil war as a member of the Twelfth In- 
diana Cavalry, having prior to that time been a sergeant in Company A, Twenty-first 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, being promoted to second lieutenant August 6, 1S62. 
He resigned October 14 of that year on account of disability and returned home. 
He is now dead. Frank G. Hubbell was born July 10, 1844, was reared in Goshen, 
and obtained his education in the city schools, in Notre Dame University, and at 
Kalamazoo, Mich., in Kalamazoo College. After clerking for some time in different 
stores in Goshen, he became associated with his father in the grocery business, con- 
tinuing thus very successfully for fifteen years when the business was closed out. 
He has also been engaged in business independent of his father, and in 1884 became 
a member of the firm of Nash, Knox & Hubbell. He has been a stockliolder, and is a 
director and vice-president of the City National Bank. In 1885 Miss Clara A. Cham- 
berlain, daughter of Judge Ebeneezer Chamberlain, became his wife, and to their 
union two children have been given: Ruth, who died December 6, 1891, and Helen 
H. Mr. Hubbell is a stanch Republican in politics, and like his honored father 
before him is a man of excellent business capacity and upright in every worthy par- 
ticular. 

John D. Lehman. Among the prominent business men and farmers of Elkhart 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIjLy.i. 567 

couuty, Ind. , and amono; its most worthy and esteemed citizens, may be mentioned 
John D. Lehman. He is a man interested in the public welfare, and, while he pays 
strict attention to his private affairs, he shirks no duties as a loyal citizen. Aside 
from his farming interest he is engaged in the manufacture of tile and owns and runs 
aaaw-mill. Mr. Lehman was born in La Grange county, Ind., January 10, 1843, and 
is the son of David and Elizabeth (Garber) Lehman, both natives of Somerset county, 
Penn. The ancestors of this family came to America in the seventeenth century, and 
were originally from Switzerland. They were Amish people, and being badly perpecuted 
in their native country on account of their religious belief, accepted the invitation 
extended by William Penn, and came to America. They engaged in agricultural 
pursuits in Somerset couuty, Penn., and tilled the soil there for generations. John 
Lehman, the grandfather of our subject, spent his entire life there. His son David, 
father of subject, grew to manhood there and was there married. Twelve children 
were the fruits of this union, the following having lived to mature years: Lydia, 
Barbara (emigrated to Indiana in 1842), John D., Elizabeth, Yost, David, Fannie, 
Polly, Samuel and Rachel. These were the children by his first wife. After her 
death he married Miss Catherine Yoder, who bore him two children, Lucy A. and 
Levi. In 1842 Mr. Lehman decided to leave the spot where his ancestors had 
resided so many years, and seek his fortune in the far West. He came to Indiana, 
settled in Newbury township. La Grange county, and purchased a farm of forty acres, 
to which he added from time to time until he owned 120 acres, part of which he 
cleared from the woods. In 1853 he sold this land for $1,800, and bought further 
east in the same township 240 acres, on which there was a saw-mill. For this prop- 
erty he paid $2,100. He improved the mill, cleared off the land and made a 
good home. His entire life was spent in hard labor on the farm, and at the 
time of his death he left about $30,000 to his children. He was a man highly 
esteemed for his many excellent traits of character, and had a host of warm friends. 
He died when sixty-three years of age. He and Mrs. Lehman were consistent mem- 
bers of the Amish Church. Their son, John D. Lehman, like the majority of farmer 
boys, assisted his father in cultivating the soil and attended the common schools. In 
addition he also assisted his father in the mill, and thus at an early age became 
familiar with hard labor. After reaching years of discretion he married Miss Bar- 
bara Miller, daughter of James F. and Catherine (Miller) Miller, and to this union 
were born seven children, two of whom are living: Mary and Fannie. Catherine 
died at the age of sixteen years, Jason died at the age of fourteen years, and others 
died young. Soon after his marriage Mr. Lehman settled on eighty acres of land in 
La Grange county, finished clearing it, and at the end of six years moved to York 
township, Elkhart couuty, where he bought 120 acres of land. On this he resided 
for three years, and in 1874 he came to Clinton township, where he bought 100 acres 
partly cleared. This he finished clearing, and in 1885 he built a tile factory on his 
land, and a saw-mill, in which he has invested nearly $3,000. He is doing a success- 
ful business, makes a good quality of tile, and during the winter of 1891-2 he 
sawed 70,000 feet of lumber. He is an active man, and is classed among the best 
citizens of the county. 

Robert H. Weamer, editor and publisher of the Bristol i?aH»ie/', was born in In- 
diana county, Penn., April 23, 1839. In 1857 he began an apprenticeship 
in a printing office at Napoleon, Henry Co. , Ohio, owned by his brother, George W. 
Weamer. On June 0, l861, he enlisted for service in the United States army in 
the Civil war. His command was first assigned to duty in the Kenawha Valley, in 
West Virginia, but was transferred to Tennessee in time to engage in the battle of 
Shiloh and in other later engagements. November 10, 1864, he married Elvira, 
daughter of William and Louise Gregg, of Urbana, Ohio. They have had four 
children, three of whom, William L., Sadie B., and Mary Maude, are living, the 
other, also named William L., having died at Angola, Ind., in 1869. Mr. Weamer 
has been a publisher for twenty eight years, and during that time has published the 



568 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

following named papers: The Bepitblican, at Cardington, Ohio, in 1865; the Repub- 
lican, with J. A. Myrtle as partner, at Angola, Ind., in 1874; established the 
Lively Times at Angola, Ind., the same year, and a year later removed it to Butler, 
De Kalb Co., Ind., and there merged it into the Butler Times; established and pub- 
lished the -Rej:»(b//ca)i, at Auburn, Ind., for six years; leased the Butler Record at 
Butler, Ind., and published it in 1880; in 1881 established the /^ecieif at Butler, 
Ind., and published it until the fall of 1884. Relinquishing the newspaper 
business, he for four years conducted a hotel at Butler, until November 10, 1888, 
when he came to Bristol, where he began the publication of the Bristol Banner. 
The Banner is one of the spiciest, newsiest, l)est printed and altogether most at- 
tractive local papers puVilished in this part of the State, and it has been influential in 
aiding all of the material interests of Butler and its surrounding country. Polit- 
ically Mr. Weamer is a Republican, religiously a Methodist. He is a member of the 
Grand Army of the Republic and of the Knights of Pythias, and is in every way 
one of Bristol's most progressive, enterprising and useful citizens. 

Abraham Weldy, who came to Elkhart county, Ind., in 1851, like many of the 
representative citizens of the county, is a native Obioan, born in Tuscarawas county, 
January 3, 1827. He is a son of John and Anna (Kiteh) Weldy, and the grandson 
of Abraham and Elizabeth (Overholt) Weldy, both natives of the Keystone State, the 
grandfather born in Westmoreland and the grandmother in Bucks county. Abraham 
Weldy and family moved to Ohio in 1812 and settled in Tuscarawas county, where 
he followed farming, the old homestead being now in the hands of one of the 
sons. He was the father of ten children, as follows: Martin, John, Abraham, 
Christian, Elizabeth, Esther, Anna, Sally, Jacob, and one died young. Of these 
only two are living at the present, Sally and Jacob. All died in Ohio but Abra- 
ham, John, Elizabeth, Christian and Anna who died in the Hoosier State. The 
father and mother of these children lived to be aged people, and the father was a 
bishop in the Mennonite Church, as well as a prominent farmer. His son, John 
Weldy, father of our subject, was a native of Westmoreland county, Penn. , born in 
1798, and was twelve years of age when his parents moved to Ohio. They were 
among the first settlers of that State, entered land, and were prominently identified 
with the early history of Tuscarawas county. John was reared amid rude sur- 
roundings, and after his marriage to Miss Kitch, settled on a farm in Holmes county, 
Ohio, where he remained until 1851. At that date he came to Indiana, and made 
his home in this State until his death. May 7. 1871. He was a life-long member of 
the Mennonite Church and a good man. He became quite wealthy and was a 
progressive and much-esteemed citizen. His wife was born in Cumberland county, 
Penn., and the daughter of Martin Kitch, who was among the early settlers of Ohio. 
Mrs. Weldy died in 1874. She was the eldest of these children: Anna, Barbara, 
Susan, John, Martin, Jacob, Rebecca, Sarah, Elizabeth and Keziah. Her father 
was a farmer, but also followed the blacksmith's trade. He was ninety-three years of 
age at the time of his death. Mr. and Mrs. Weldy were the parents of the following chil- 
dren, seven of whom reached mature years: Abraham (subject); Elizabeth, the wife 
of John Barkey, of Madison township, St. Joseph county, has one child (Levi W., 
who is married and the father of a child, Elmer); Martin, died when eleven jears of 
age; Rebecca also died at the age of eleven years; Susan married Christian Shaum 
and resides near Wakarusa; Anna died when two years of age; Rachael also died 
when young; Esther, deceased, was the wife of John Shrock, of St. Joseph county; 
Keziah, deceased, was the wife of Enoch Eby; John, residing on a farm in Locke 
township, and Jacob, also on a farm in Locke township. Alwaham Weldy grew to 
manhood on his father's farm in Ohio, and was married there June 21, 1849, to Miss 
Nancy Yoder, a daughter of Samuel and Margaret (Holdeman) Yoder. Mr. and Mrs. 
Yoderwero born in Pennsylvania, and the former was the son of John Yoder. Mrs. 
Yoder was the daughter of Christian Holdeman, and both families were early pio- 
neers in Columbiana county, Ohio. Mrs. Weldy' s parents were married in Ohio, and 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 569 

five children were the fruits of this union: John, a farmer and tile man, residing in 
Elkhart coiinty; Elizabeth, wife of Henry Smeltzer, of Olive township, Elkhart 
county; Nancy and Jacob (twins); Nancy is the wife of our subject and Jacob is a 
farmer of Harrison township, and Samuel, a minister of the Mennonite Church, is 
living in the city of Elkhart. The father of these children died in Ohio when the 
family was small, and she took for her second husband Jacob Freed, with whom she 
emigrated to Elkhart county. She became the mother of four children by this 
union: Catherine, who married Jacob Loucks, resides in Olive township, this coun- 
ty; Mary married Anthony Wisler, and they resiile in Harper coanty. Kan.; 
Joseph was a soldier, and died in a hospital at Jeffersonville, lud. , and Christina, 
who married Joseph Landis and resides in Locke township. The mother of these 
childrendied in Elkhart county, June 23, 1887, and her second husband died in 
the same county in 1869. To our subject and wife were born thirteen children, 
eleven of whom grew to mature years, but only ten are now living: Elizabeth, wife 
of Peter Blosser, of Missouri, is the mother of these children; Levi, Samuel, Bar- 
bara, Anna, Henry, Delia, Lavina and John. Anna married Peter 8. Hartman, of 
Locke township, and they have nine children: Aaron, William, Martha, Amos, 
Amanda, John, Emma, Mary and Abraham. Margaret, the third child born to 
our subject, married Henry Clay, and they reared six children: Martha, Nancy, 
Eva, Clara, Rhoda and Dora; three children were deceased, Cassius, Emma, and one 
not named. Mr. and Mrs. Clay are both deceased, dying only three days apart; 
Sarah, fourth child born to subject, married Valentine Hartman and has seven 
children : Clara A., Dora J. , Leander, Harvey, Sylvester, Irwin and Phoebe A. ; Mr. and 
Mrs. Hartman reside in St. Joseph county. Jacob married Hannah Null and they 
have seven children : Mary. Leander, Alma, Martha, Timothy, Irwin and Sylvester; 
the parents of these children reside in St. Joseph county. John married Miss 
Nettie Salsbury and four children were given them: Delia, Alma, Ernest and Loyd; 
he and wife reside in St. Joseph county. Joseph is a farmer of St. Joseph county. 
Henr}' married Miss Alma Dolman, who bore him four children: Sarah J., Emma, 
Clara A., and Noah A.; he and wife reside in Locke township, this county. Henry 
is a minister of the Mennonite Church. Levi resides at home with his parents, 
married Miss Alice Madlem. Emma married Samuel Madlem, and they have one child 
Levi A. Amos resides at home. Our subject and wife settled on the farm where they 
now live in 1851, and although they experienced many hardships, they are now 
substantial and respected citizens of the county. They are interested in all good 
work, especially schools and churches. Mr. Weldy has held a number of township 
offices, was township clerk in 1852-3 and has always been interested in the affairs 
of the county. He is with the Republican party in politics. Mr AVeldly is now the 
owner of 291 acres of land and has assisted his children to a start in life. 

J.\B0B B. AVeldy is one of the prominent farmers of Elkhart county, Ind., and 
his tiue farm, consisting of nearly one hundred and fifty-six acres on Section 34, is 
equaled by few and excelled by none in the county in the way of improvements. 
This gentleman owes his nativity to the Buckeye State, born in Holmes county, 
February 25, 1849, and was the youngest child born to the marriage of John and 
Anna (Kitch) Weldy. The father was a native of Westmoreland county, Penn., 
born in 1799, and was of Swiss descent. The ancestors of the family emigrated 
from Switzerland to this country, and probably made a settlement in Pennsylvania 
about the beginning of the eighteenth century. John Weldy was about twelve years 
of age when he moved with his father, Abraham ^\'ejdy, to the woods of Ohio, and 
he was there reared amid rude surroundings and in a primitive, simple manner. 
(See sketch of John Weldy.) Jacob B. Weldy was but two years of age when his 
parents came to St. Joseph county, Ind. He received his education in the schools 
of Madison township, St. Joseph County, and remained under the parental roof until 
after the death of the father, 1871. The same year he was married and shortly 
afterward rented the old home place on which he remained for six years. He then 



570 PICTOIUAL AXI) BlOdllAPIIICAL 

bought his present property m Locke township, this county, and has since improved 
and devel(j]5ed to such au extent that there is no better farm in the county. In his 
political affiliations Mr. Weldy is a stanch Republican, and has held the office of 
director in the district. He is a member of the Mennonite Church, and is much 
interested in religious and educational matters. His wife, formerly MissE. Kreider, 
was born April 8, 1854, and is the daughter of David and Magdaline (Hoover) 
Kreider. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs Weldy: Anna, born Novem- 
ber 26, 1874, is fitting herself for a teacher; Amanda, born July 22. 1878; John, 
born August 12, 1877; David, born June 8, 1877, died at the age of eight years, 
and two died when .still younger. Mr. Weldy is well known throughout the county 
as a public-spirited, progressive citizen, and in connection with farming is actively 
engaged in raising cattle and sheep. He is well known and well respected in the 
county. 

John K. Weldy, son of John and Anna (Kitch) Weldy, was born inHolmes county, 
Ohio, March 7, 1847, and although but a child when he came with his parents to 
Indiana, very well remembers the journey which took ten days. He was reared on 
a farm in St. Joseph county, received his early education in the subscription schools, 
but later attended the district schools during the winter months, being obliged to 
assist on the farm in the summer season. Until twenty-two years of age he remained 
under the parental I'oof, and then started out to make his own way in life. He 
settled on the farm where he now lives, eighty acres, which were covered with timber 
and very few improvements made, only twenty acres being cleared. Success fol- 
lowed hard work and perseverance, and he became a wealthy man. When a boy he 
learned the carpenter's trade, has followed it more or less all his life, and superin- 
tended the building of the substantial barn on his place. Mr. Weldy is the owner 
of 210 acres of well-improved land, all in one tract, has it well tiled and fenced, and 
everything about the place indicates the owner to be a man of energy and enter- 
prise. He has been a resident of this county since 1869, and what he has of this 
world's goods has been accumulated since that time. He is a wide-awake, pushing 
business man, and one of the most prominent farmers of the county. In politics he 
advocates the principles and policy of the Republican party, and his first presiden- 
tial vote was for Gen. U. S. Grraut. His ancestors were Whigs. Mr. Weldy has 
held the office of school director, and has ever been interested in school work. He 
is a member of the Mennonite Church, takes a deep interest in church affairs, and in 
fact is active in his support of all worthy enterprises. In 1886 Mr. Weldy built a 
tine brick house at a cost of about §3,000; his out-buildings are all in first-class 
condition, and he has good orchards on his place. In connection with farming he 
is quite extensively engaged in buying and feeding stock, and annually sells many 
Shorthorn cattle, sheep, Poland-China hogs and horses. In the year 1869 
Mr. Weldy married Miss Susan Mumaw, a native of Holmes county, Ohio, and their 
nuptials were celebrated in that county. Mrs. Weldy was born March 15, 1847, 
and is one of a family of eight children reared by George and Catherine (Brene- 
man) Mumaw. Mr. Mumaw came originally from Westmoreland county, Penn., and 
settled in Ohio at an earlj' day. To his marriage were born these children: Susan 
(Mrs. Weld)'), Heui'y, a jihysician in Elkhart; Amos, a minister of the Mennonite 
Church, residing in Olive township, this county: Rachel, residing in Wayne 
county, Ohio; Fannie residing in Ohio; John in Wayne county, Ohio; Mary, at 
home, and one died in infancy. The father and mother of these children 
died in Ohio a number of years ago. The former was a strong Republican. Mrs. 
Weldy came to Indiana with her husband, and has been a true helpmate to him 
in every way. Eleven children have been born to them and are named as follows: 
George, born November 21, 1869, married Miss Lucretia Whitman and they have 
one son, Edgar (he and wife are residing in Olive township); Jacob I. was born 
December 31, 1871, is at home assisting on the farm, and in politics is a Republican; 
Daniel S. was born December 19, 1873, and is in the printing office of the Men- 



MEMOIUH OF IXDIAXA. 571 

nonite Publishing Company; Amos A., born January H. 1876; Silas, born Novem- 
ber 27, 1877; Martin, born March 21, 1879; Ira, born March 8, 1881; Walter, born 
September 22, 18S3; Homer, born December 28, 1885; Elmer, born December 10, 
1887; and Ruth Ann, the only daughter, was born March 29, 1890. Mr. Weldy has 
given his children good educational advantages, and they all excel in music, and are 
good singers. 

Hexry Hoke has been a resident of Elkhart count}', Ind., from early childhood, 
and the lesson derived from his career of energy, perseverance and public spirit, 
carrying a youth from humble circumstances to a manhood of nobility and comfort- 
able circumstances, needs no word or comment to make it significant and impressive. 
He is a son of Isaac and Eliza (Weaver) Hoke, lioth of whom were born in Columbus 
county, Ohio, the foi-mer in 1822. He was a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Mayer) 
Hoke, the former of whom was a Pennsylvanian and an early pioneer of Colum- 
biana county, Ohio. He was au active politician of Republican proclivities, 
was public spirited and energetic, and was well known throughout the section in 
which he resided. He reared a family as follows: Samuel, Marl in, Jonas, George, 
Isaac, Sarah, Margaret and Lydia. The father of these children died in Columbi- 
ana county, Ohio, but his widow came to Elkhart county, Ind., and resided in Union 
township with her son Samuel. All her children came to this section except Jonas, 
who resides on the old farm in Ohio, and Sarah, who lives in Pennsylvania. Martin 
resides in Hughes county, this State; George is a resident of Harrison township, 
this county; Samuel resides in Union township; Margaret is the wife of an Indi- 
ana man and lives in Union township; Isaac Hoke grew to sturdy manhood on the 
farm in Ohio, and in the district schools received a sufSciently thorough education 
to tit him for the calling of a teacher, which he followed for some time. He was 
married in Ohio in 1849, emigrated to Indiana and settled in Elkhart county, two 
and one-half miles southwest of Goshen, where he purchased a farm of 130 acres, 
which was partly improved. On this farm he continued to make his home until his 
death in September, 188y. He became a wealthy farmer, for he was a man of good 
judgment and was also enterprising and industrious, and throughout the greater 
portion of his life his sympathies were with the Republican party. He lived to be 
sixty-eight years of age, but the last few years of his life was an invalid. He 
was a member of the German Baptist Church, and was always active in church mat- 
ters, and for some time held the office of deacon in his church. He was a man of 
strong convictions, and during his residence of over forty years in this county, he 
became well known and held a high place in public estimation. His wife was a 
daughter of Christian Weaver, a Pennsylvanian, who was one of the early settlers of 
Columbiana county, Penn. Mrs. Hoke was a life-long member of the German Bap- 
tist Church and was a faithful and affectionate wife and mother. She bore her 
husband three sons and one daughter: Levi, born in Ohio, in 1849, is living near 
Goshen, and is a gardener by occupation; Henry and Christian were twins and the 

latter died at the age of twelve years; Mary is the wife of Samuel , and 

lives in Union township, being now forty years of age. After the death of his first 
wife the father married a second time, and by his wife, Susanna Miller, became the 
father of five children. She was a daughter of David Miller, a pioneer of Harrison 
township, and has been dead a number of years. Her children were named as fol- 
lows: Saloma, Elizabeth, Sarah. Samuel and Daniel. David the youngest, died at 
the age of twelve years. Henry Hoke was born October 26, 1847, and was 
about two years of age when his parents moved to this county. He assisted his 
father on the farm until he was legally free, and when choosing a calling for himself 
it was but natural that he should choose that to which he had been reared, and when 
about twenty four years old settled on the farm on which he is living at the present 
time, but the first year farmed it on shares. Elizabeth Miller, a daughter of Jacob 
Y. Miller and Catherine (Rarrick) Miller became his wife in 1871, being one of five 
children born to her parents, who came to this section from Ohio. Their children 



572 PICTORIAL AND BIOGIIAPHICAL 

are: Levi E. , who lives on the old home farm; John R. , who resides in Locke town- 
ship. Mary, wife of D. Aughey, became the wife of David Killian after the death of 
her tirst husband; Andrew, of Nappanee. Mrs. Hoke was born in Ohio January 24, 
1848 and is the mother of live children: Martha, born December 17, 1872; Mary, 
born Maj' 31, 1876; Vernon, born November 28, 1879; Ellen, born November 17, 
1884, and Mabel, born February 15, 1890. The eldest daughter finished her educa- 
tion in Mount Morris Academy and is an intelligent and accomplished young lady. 
Mr. Hoke has shown much good judgment and prudence in the management of his 
business affairs, has carefully avoided purely speculative ventures and has been eon- 
tent with a slower but surer prosperity. He has ninety-six and a half acres where 
he now lives, and forty-iive acres on the old home place in Elkhart township. He is 
popular with all classes, and in a quiet way has been charitable to educational and 
religious projects. He has long been a member of the German Baptist Church and 
has always taken an active interest in church work. He is a politician only in the 
sense of endeavoring to secure for the community in which he lives good government, 
and in discharging all the obligations of good citizenship. He is interested in the 
culture of fruit, has a fine large orchard, and for about ten years past has raised 
large quantities of strawberries. He is a model American citizen, being patriotic, 
law-abiding and liberty-loving. 

William D. Blough has been a resident of Harrison township, Elkhart Co., 
Ind., since 1873, bnt was born in Summit township, Somerset Co., Penn. , on 
December 19, 1845, the eldest child born to David J. and Matilda (Griffith) 
Blongh, which family is descended from a fine race that originated in Ger- 
many. The founder of the family in America came from Blackforest, Germany, 
and settled in Lebanon county, Penn. , where he married and reared a family 
of five children, two being sons. From these two sons are descended those 
of the name in this country and Canada. The two sons, Christian and Jacob, moved 
to Summit, Somerset Co., Penn., and settled in a valley between a range of 
the Alleghany and Laurelhill Mountains, where they both became well-known citizens 
and reared families. Christian was the great great-grandfather of the gentle- 
man whose name heads this sketch. He reared a family of six sons and one daughter: 
Jacob, John, Christian, Peter, Henry, David and Martin; Christian, the third 
child, being the great-grandfather of William D. He became a man of influence 
in Summit, Somerset county, and reared a good old-fashioned family of six daughters 
and four sons: Jacob, John, Benjamin, Joseph, Nancy, Sally, Susan, Polly, Rachel 
and Frances, all of whom became well-to-do and highly respected people of Somer- 
set county. The eldest of these children, Jacob, was the grandfather of William, 
and his family consisted of seven sons and four daughters: Daniel, Michael. David 
J. , Jacob, Solomon, John, Levi, Sarah, Catherine, Elizabeth and Nanc)'. The 
most of these children married and reared families in Somerset county, where they 
occupied prominent positions and were held in high esteem. David J., the third 
son, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in 1822 and in his native 
county of Somerset, Penn., grew to manhood on a farm, and almost from his cradle 
learned habits of industry, honesty and thrift, which were his stepping stones to 
success in later years and remained with him throughout life. He was married in 
his native county to Miss Matilda Griffith, a native of that county also and a daugh- 
ter of David and Mary (Hensil) Griffith, the former of whom was a descendant of 
one of the old-time English families of Pennsylvania. To David J. Blougb and 
his wife six sons and four daughters were born: William D., Nelson D., Henry, 
David, Josiah D., Elmore, Catherine, Sarah M., Anna M. and Mary. The 
father and mother still reside on the old homestead in Summit, Somerset coun- 
ty, and are in the enjoyment of a hale old age and are held in high esteem 
by the many who know them. They reared a large family to industrious and honor- 
able manhood and womanhood, and only one is deceased — Mary — who was drowned 
when about one year old. All are married but Elmore and Sarah, who are still living 



MEMOIIiS OF TyniAXA. 573 

with their father and mother. David J. Bloiigh ser-ved nine months in the Union 
Army during the Civil war and in politics is iudependent, voting for whom he con- 
siders the best man. The Bloughs belong to one of the old-time families of the 
country, for they settled here iu colonial days and were patriots during the Revolu- 
tion. Sarah, the daughter of David J. Blough, was at Johnstown at the time of 
the great flood and the house in which she was staying was swept away and she 
nearly drowned. She was swept downward about three quarters of a mile and by 
a miracle was saved. William D. Blough has been familiar with farming from his 
boyhood, but while occupied in the duties of a farmer's boy he found time to at- 
tend the district school near his home, in which he acquired a good iiractieal 
education. He started out to do for himself by making a trip westward, taking 
a boat down the Ohio, and up the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers to St. Joseph 
and Omaha, and while in the West worketl on a farm. From that point he 
hired out to cross the plains but at the end of about a year returned to his old 
home with a sick comrade, who had been with him iu his wanderings, and there 
remained for two years. At the end of this time he went to Illinois, and set- 
tled in Washington county, but one year later went to Franklin county, Kan., 
and until 1873 was a resident of Ottawa. In the fall of that year he came to 
Elkhart county, Ind., but was not a permanent resident of the place until 
1877. Since then he has made his influence felt in his section, and is consid- 
ered a substantial, prosperous and public-spirited citizen. He is the owner of 
a good farm of eighty acres, besides a number of houses and lots in Elkhart. 
He has shown much discernment as a business man, and as a result has ac- 
quired a good property. What he has in the way of worldly goods has been 
acquired by his own efforts and he has every reason to be proud of his achieve- 
ments. He has always beeu strongly opposed to the liquor traffic, is a strict 
temperance man and in politics is a Prohibitionist. He is interested in the improve- 
ment of country roads. He is a member of the Evangelical Church, in which he is 
trustee, and is a worker for the Christian cause. November 29, 1877, he was mar- 
ried to Mary R. Hoover, daughter of David L. Hoover (see sketch). She was born 
July 31, 1858, in Elkhart county, and is the mother of five children: Laura 
Belle, born May 23, 1879; Rosa May, born October 27, 1881; Arvilla Matilda, born 
October 6, 1884; David F., born December 9, 1877, and Nelson H., born June 17, 
1891. This family is one of the most substantial of the county and is an influence 
for good in the section in which they reside. 

David L. Hoover belongs to that class of American citizens who manifest a de- 
cided aptitude for business enterprise, and who rise in a few years from a condition 
of poverty and obscurity to one of prominence, and the possession of considerable 
wealth. During the forty years that he has resided in Elkhart county, Ind., he has 
shown himself to be public-spirited, enterprising and honorable, and has gathered 
about him many .warm friends, as the result of his correct mode of living. He is a 
son of David and Esther (Lehman) Hoover, the former of whom was born in Lan- 
caster county, Penn., in 1781, a son of Samuel Hoover, who was also a native of the 
Keystone State, and was of Swiss descent. John Hoover was a farmer, reared a 
large family, and he and his wife were called from this life in Pennsylvania. David 
was their youngest son, and grew up on his father's farm, and in the State of his 
birth he united his fortunes with those of Miss Esther Lehman, and with her moved 
to Mahoning county, Ohio, about 1820, where he tilled the soil until his death which 
occurred at the age of fifty-two years. His wife died in 1851, having been born in 
Franklin county, Penn., a daughter of Daniel and Frances Lehman, both of whom 
died in Franklin county, Penn. She was born in 1787, one of twelve children, 
and herself became the mother of twelve children: Mary, who married Jacob Wisler, 
and died many years ago; Magdaline, who married Jacob Yoder, and is also dead; 
Rebecca, deceased; Susannah, deceased; Elizabeth, deceased; Catherine, who mar- 
ried Jacob Stauifer, and died in Ohio; Samuel (see sketch); Daniel, who died in this 



574 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

county, leaving a family of children; Anna, who is the wife of Christian C. ; 

Esther, who is the wife of John Mall of Columbiana county, Ohio; Francis who is 
living in Harrison township, this count}', and David L., who is the youngest of the 
family. The parents of these children were life-long members of the Mennonite 
Church, and the father was a practical and well -to do farmer of Republican procliv- 
ities. David L. Hoover was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, February 20, 1830, 
and in addition to acquiring a thorough knowledge of farming in his youth, also 
learned the blacksmith's trade, at which he worked for many years. He came to 
Elkhart county when twentj'-tive j'ears of age, and was married three years later to 
Susanna Robrer, a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Ferry) Rohrer. Mrs. Hoover 
was born in Medina county, Ohio, May 29, 1839, and after her mai'riage she settled 
with her husband on a farm in Harrison township, where he tilled the soil and worked 
at blacksmithing for ten years. He then bought the farm on which he now lives, 
and for the past thirty years has resided on the same. He has been successful in 
his business ventures, and has also been active in the political affairs of his section, 
being a stanch Republican. He has been a member of the Mennonite Church for a 
number of years, in fact, his career is one well worthy of emulation. He experi- 
enced the hardships of life in a new country, and although he was compelled to 
labor early and late for some time, bis means gradually increased, and he is now in 
the enjoyment of a comfortable competency. He and his wife have reared three 
children and lost two: Mary, born June 30, 1858. is the wife of William D. Blough, 
and has live children; Laura Belle, Rosy May, Aurilla M. , David F. and Nelson; 
Samuel was born July 4, 1860, married Lucinda Curtis, are living on the old home 
farm, and have one child, Avilla; Amanda, born June 11, 1862, died at the age 
of three months; one died in infancy; and Noah who was born June 10, 1873, resides 
on the home farm. Mr. Hoover has been a successful stockraiser, as well as 
farmer, and commands an ample income. 

Daniel Smoker is one of the practical and successful farmers of Elkhart county 
and is a son of Jacob Smoker who is one of the honored and prominent citizens of 
this locality. Our subject was born on his father's farm in Elkhart township, Octo- 
ber 15, 1854, and the common district schools afforded him an education. Like 
many of the best citizens of the county he was reared to agricultural pursuits, and on 
March 11, 1880, when twenty-five years of age, he was married to Miss Rebecca 
Schwin. She was born February 13, 1859, to Simon and Martha Schwin. Two 
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Smoker: Mabel, born June 7, 1882, and Ada, 
born September 24, 1883. Mr. Smoker and his wife are worthy members of the 
Amish Church, and Mr. Smoker is one of the directors. In politics he is a stanch 
Prohibitionist, and like many other representative citizens, realizes the great injury 
that is done the people b_v the open saloon, and casts his vote fearlessly and in- 
dependently for what he believes to be the right cause. He is a friend of education 
and takes an active interest in having good schools in the community. He lives on 
Elkhart Prairie, and owns a farm containing 100 acres of land. All liis life has been 
passed in tilling the soil, and he is one of the industrious, hard-working men of his 
locality. He follows his chosen calling with an honest pride and an intelligent 
method, being a model and practical farmer. He is a descendant of good old Penn- 
sylvania stock and one of the fourth generation from the original pioneer settlers 
who came from Germany. He may well take pride in the honored, religious family 
from which he sprang. Mrs. Smoker's father, Simon Schwin, is one of the foremost 
agriculturists of the county and is of Swiss origin. His father, Jacob Schwin, was 
born nine miles northeast of the city of Schoffhausen and within hearing of the 
celebrated fails on the river Rhine. He had a good German education and was 
reared to farm life. He served as a soldier under the great Napoleon during the 
celebrated Russian campaign and was present at the burning of Moscow. He was 
also in the disastrous retreat of the French army through the snow and ice of the 
Russian winter, was taken prisoner by the Russians, and suffered incredible hard- 



MEMOIRS OF IXVIAXA. 575 

ships. He married Miss Sophronia Berlinfjer and eleven children were the fruits of 
this union: Agues, Auuie, Alexander, Catherine, Simon, John, Barbara, M;irgaret, 
Jacob, Fredrick and Elizabeth. The six eldest children were born in Switzerland and 
came with their parents to America in 1833. They landed in the city of New York, 
but went from there to Ohio and settled upon wild land, living for some time in a 
log cal)in. After live years Mr. Schwin moved to another farm. He died in 1854. 
He and his wife were Lutherans in their religious belief, but as there were no 
churches of that denomination near, they joined one of the other churches in 
Ohio. By industry and hard work Mr. Schwin succeeded in accumulating a com- 
fortable competence, and was one of the much-esteemed residents of the community 
in which he lived. His son, Simon Schwin, father of Mrs. Smoker, was born Septem- 
ber 15, 1825, in Switzerland, and was about seven years of age when he came to 
this country. He soon began working out in a German family and attended a Ger- 
man school for some time. In 1S44 he came to Indiana with a farmer and settled in 
Elkhart township, where he remained for one year. Returning to Ohio he remained 
in that State five years, or until 1850, when he again entered the Hoosier State, and 
to Elkhart township, Elkhart county. He worked for Adam Yoder, who had mar- 
ried his sister Annie, and continued with him for two years. He married Mies 
Martha Kauifman (see sketch of Solomon Kauffman), and nine children were the 
fruits of this union: Leah, Elizabeth (died at the age of thirty), John (died at the 
age of thirty-five), Rebecca, Sarah, Fred, Lydia, Emma and Eddie (died at the age 
of six years). Shortly after his marriage Mr. Schwin settled on eighty acres of land 
in the timber and for this he paid $500. After clearing ten acres of this he sold it 
for .S700 and rented a farm on Elkhart Prairie where he resided for five years. He 
then bought the original farm for $2,20(1, and after residing on it for six years and 
improving it, sold out for $4,000. His next move was to buy his present faim and 
by industry, economy and good management he has added to the original tract until 
he now owns 217 acres. He has also an excellent residence and good out-buildings. 
Mrs. Schwin, who was a devout member of the Amish Mennonite Church, died on 
May 25, 1890. She was a true Christian, a very industrious woman and an excellent 
mother to her children. Mr. D. Smoker is also a member of that church. The 
oldest son, John S., married Miss Fannie Hartzler, and until his death, July 26, 1892, 
caused by an accident, was a farmer of this township. One child. Jay, was born to 
this union. Rebecca married Daniel Smoker (our subject), Fred H. married Miss 
Belle Norris and is on the home farm; Lydia married David Smoker, brother of 
Daniel, and lives on Elkhart Prairie. The remainder of the family are at home. 
Mr. Schwin ranks as one of the wide awake, progressive farmers of the township, 
and what he has accumulated of this world's goods are the fruits of his own honest 
efforts. In politics he supports the principles of the Republican party. 

John Smoker. Although one of the young agriculturists of Elkhart county, 
Ind., Mr. Smoker has made his way to the front ranks among the energetic farmers 
of the county, and owing to the attention he has always paid to each minor detail, and 
his desire to keep out of the old ruts, as well as his ready adoption of new and im- 
proved methods, he has met with good success. He is a son of Jacob Smoker and was 
born on his father's farm in this county July 13, 1866. At an early age he became 
familiar with the arduous duties of the farm, and like the majority of country boys 
his education was received in the district schools. After reaching man's estate he 
still continued to follow the occupation to which he had been reared, and October 3, 
1889, was married to Miss Etta Stutsman, who was l)oru February 17, 1809, and 
who was the daughter of B. F. and Clarinda (McConaughy) Stutsman. Alter mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Smoker settled on a farm on Elkhart Prairie, and after residing 
there for some time sold out and bought the farm on which they are now living. This 
was in 1892. Mr. Smoker now owns eighty-three acres of land and a tasty, comfort- 
able residence which bears evidence of the culture and refinement of its inmates. By 
his own efforts he has become one of the foremost tillers of the soil in his section, yet 



576 PICTORIAL .ISD BWGRAPniCAL 

he does not confine himself merely to agricultural pursuits, but branches out in differ- 
ent occupations. At present he is extensively engaged in the poultry business, and in 
this, as in every other venture he has undertaken, will no doubt reap rich returns. 
Mrs. Saioker was well educated in the graded schools of Goshen, and is a lady of 
more than ordinarj' ability. The family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Smoker has been 
made complete by the birrh of one child, an interesting little daughter, Eva, who 
was born February 27, 1891. This worthy young couple are members of the Amish 
Church. Like the majority of the Smoker family, our subject is a strong Prohibi- 
tionist, and believing that intemperance is the real cause of much of the sorrow and 
unhappiness of the world, he does not hesitate to cast bis vote against the open 
saloon. He is a prominent, energetic young man, and is bound to make his mark 
in life. 

Elder J.4.mes H. Miller, a well-known resident of South Bend, Ind. , is a Preble 
county Ohioan, born August '25, 1814, a son of Abraham and Nancy (Huston) Mil- 
ler. ^Yhen a mere lad his parents settled in Franklin county, Ind., where he grew 
to manhood on a farm which his father entered in the forests of that county. His 
education was a limited one, confined to -what could be obtained during the winter 
months in the subscription schools held in log cabins, and at the age of seventeen 
years he left home and began to work on a farm by the month, owing to his father's 
large family and the comparatively small farm embraced in the homestead, [n 1832 
he came to St. Joseph county with his brother Jacob, returning to Franklin county 
with the team he had used in moving Jacob and his family. The following year he 
came to St. Joseph county, making his home with his brother several years 
thereafter. He was married in March, 1841, to Mary Huston, who was born in 
Ohio January, 1818, after which he settled on a farm of about 150 acres in German 
township. Later he purchased additional land near by, on which he made his home 
and reared his family. He was a successful farmer, a generous father, divided his 
lands among his children, and generally assisted them in various ways to estalilish 
homes of their own. When about twenty-six years of age Mr. Miller was elected 
minister of the German Baptist Church, and for over forty years was an active and 
enero-etic worker in that society. In his ministerial capacity he has done a great 
deal of traveling through Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and Michigan, during which time 
he has baptized over 2.000 persons, conducted innumerable funeral services, far and 
near, and united in marriage many couples. His religious labors, according to the 
customs of the church, have been without money and without price. His assistance 
in the construction of churches has been called upon times without number, and he 
helped to erect the finest meeting-house in the town of South Bend, which was a Bap- 
tist Church. He has been an arduous laborer in the cause of religion for many 
years, and is highly honored and respected by all who have come in contact with him 
and had the honor of his acquaintance, for he is a most exemplary man. In business 
matters he has been successful and has accumulated considerable property. He is 
one of the few of the early pioneers still residing in St. Joseph county. His union 
resulted in the birth of the following children: Phrebe J., Jacob, Sylvester, Madison 
and Fannie O. ; of these Sylvester and Fannie O. are deceased. Mrs. Miller died 
December 23, 1888, and since that time Mr. Miller has remained unmarried. Madi- 
son Miller, son of Elder James H. Miller, was born in St. Joseph county March 
18, 1847, and on the homestead in German township his early days were spent. 
After obtaining a good education in the common schools he entered the Northern In- 
diana College at South Beud, from which institution he graduated in 1863. He 
shortly afterward engaged in farming in German township, where he purchased 100 
acres of land, and there he lived and carried on a successful business until 1881, 
when he moved to South Beud, where he devoted his time to looking after various 
business interests. In 1888 he engaged in the mercantile business in South Bend, 
under the firm name of Brodbeck & Miller, carrying a grocery stock. In Septem- 
ber, 1892, the business of the firm was closed out and Mr. Miller retired from active 



ME MOT US OF I XI) TAX A. 577 

business pursuits for a short titae. He has disposed of his farming interests and at 
the present time looks after the valuable city property of which he is the owner. 
He has just completed a handsome residence at a cost of about S2,50O, and there he 
is enjoying life with his amiable wife and two promising children. His marriage 
occurred November 24, 1S67, to Margaret A. Broadhurst, who was born July 24, 
1851, a daughter of Levi and Euieline (Myler) Broadhurst. Mr. and Mrs. Miller's 
children are: Edith, born January 24, 1864, and Blanche, bom July 28, 1889. The 
elder daughter, as well as her parents, is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. 
Miller is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and in politics is a Prohibitionist, 
although not a partisan. He is in every respect a worthy man, and is a useful and 
influential member of society. 

Ad.\m B. Miller. The time has arrived when it becomes the duty of the people 
of this county to perpetuate the names of their pioneers, to furnish a record of their 
early settlement and relate the story of their progress. In biographical history is 
found a power to instruct men by precedent, to enliven the mental faculties and to 
waft down the river of time a safe vessel in which the names and actions of the peo- 
ple who contributed to raise this country from its primitive state may be preserved. 
One of the old and prominent families of Elkhart county, Ind., is the Miller family, 
which has many representatives in this country. The subject of this sketch, Adam 
B. Miller, is a son of David Y. and Eva (Bainter) Miller, and the grandson of John 
and Esther (Miller) Miller, both of whom came originally from the Key.stone State, 
and were early settlers of Ohio, locating in that State about 1800. To the grand- 
parents were born fourteen children, as follows: Daniel, David. Abraham, Jacob, 
John, Mary, Samuel, Elizabeth, Steven, Sarah, Esther, Solomon, Catherine and 
Noah. All but two of these children are living and are married and have reared 
large families, and all but Daniel, who died in Ohio, are residents of Elkhart 
county. The children same to this county about 1836, and the parents followed 
about two years later, all settling on Elkhart Prairie, where they made their home 
for many years. After the children married, the father moved to Harrison township, 
and there he aud his worthy companion passed the remainder of their days, the 
father dying about 1850. Both were members of the German Baptist Church, and 
he was a minister in the same for some time. The children developed into first- 
class citizens, and the sons all became tillers of the soil, but some became ministers 
also. David Y. Miller, the father of our subject, who was born in Montgomery 
county, Ohio, April 14, 1809, was a young man of twenty-six years when the family 
moved to this county, and he was reared amid the rude surroundings of pioneer 
life. He was married in Ohio to Miss Bainter, aud was the father of four children 
when he settled in Indiana in 1836. He took up 160 acres of Government land in 
Harrison township and made his home there until a few j'ears ago. when he went to 
live with a son in Clinton county, this State. He was a resident of Elkhart county 
for forty-tive years, a minister in the German Baptist Church, and a man who had a 
host of warm friends. His wife was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, in 1814, 
and was the daughter of Fredrick and Margaret (Ruff) Bainter, both of whom were 
pioneers of Pennsylvania and Ohio. Mrs. Bainter was a daughter of Adam Ruff, 
who was of German descent. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Bainter were 
thirteen in number and named as follows: Daniel, Margaret, Eva, David, Fred- 
rick, Andrew, Susan, Jacob, Elizabeth, Peter, Adam, Alexander and Aaron. Mrs. 
Miller died in Elkhart county in 1875. and was an exemplary member of the Ger- 
man Baptist Church. She was the mother of an old-fashioned family of fourteen 
children, all but one now living : Adam B. (subject); Margaret, married and resides 
in Olive township, this county ; Daniel, a farmer of Union township; Esther, first 
married Benjamin Hoover, but her second marriage was to Adam Falmer. of Union 
township; Sarah, wife of Jacol) Wise, of Harrison township; Eliznbeth, wife of John 
Gauger, of Harrison township; Delila. wife of Moses Martin, of Harrison township; 
Alexander, a minister of the German Baptist Church, resides in Locke township, 



578 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

this county; Lydia, wife of Joseph Wise, dietl when twenty years of age; Susan, 
wife of Joseph Roose, of Elkhart county; ^Yilliam, married and residing in Nap- 
panee; Eva, wife of E. Eversale, of St. Joseph county; Catharine, wife of Henry 
Roose, of Kosciusko county, and Christian, a man of a family, resides in Clinton 
county, Ind. Adam B. Miller, the subject of this sketch, was six years old when he 
came to this county, for he was born in Ohio in 1830, and he was early trained to 
farm labor. His education was received in the district school, and he remained at 
home until twenty-one years of age, or until 1852, when he ma Tied Miss Catharine 
Davenport, afterward settling on the farm where he now li"e.5. This farm was 
small at that time, but by industry and good management he has increased the 
original tract from year to year until he now owns 142 acres of excellent land. It 
was covered with timber at the time of his settlement, but 'le ' as cleared and 
improved it in every way. For a number of years he and his v y wife lived in 
a log house, but they later built a good, comfortable residence. connection with 

farming Mr. Miller is engaged in raising stock, and is makin a success of this 
industry. He is a public spirited man, a good citizen and a prosperous farmer. 
Mrs. Miller was a daughter of Noah and Catherine (Stutsmar) Davenport, early 
pioneers of Ohio, who came to Indiana in 1836. The father died in the county 
shortly afterward and the mother is deceased now also. They had born to their 
union seven children: Mary, David, Martin, Jacob, Susan, Noah and Catherine. 
Mrs. Miller was the youngest. She was born March 16, 1835, and died in 1868 in 
full membership with the German Baptist Church. Her marri; ge resulted in the 
birth of seven children who were named as follows: Benjamin, narried Miss Mary 
Freed and has one child, Arthur (they reside in Nappanee); ! jouisa became the 
wife of C. Wisler, of Harper county, Kan., and they have one c lild, Bertha; Mar- 
garet married Jasper Price, and they have three children: Arth) r, Harry and Ruth 
(they reside in Nappanee); Albert married Miss Emma Neusbau ab, who bore him 
live children: Clarence, Eva, Nina, Merty and Oscar, and they reside in Goshen; 
Eva married Amos Smeltzer, by whom she had three children: Jessie, Willard and 
Wilburn, and they reside in Locke township; Amanda, who died when six weeks of 
age, and another died when an infant. To our subject's second marriage with Miss 
Hannah Miller, daughter of David C. Miller (see sketch), nine children were born, 
viz.: Dora A., wife of Barton Garmin, resides on her father's farm and has two chil- 
dren, Luella and Chester; William F., married Nancy Newcomes, and resides in 
Kosciusko; Ira, a single man; Sarah, wife of George Newcomes. resides in Union 
township; HattieE. ; John J. ; Warren; Adam died when ten months of age: and 
Julia A. The mother of these children was born in the Buckeye State June 21, 
1845. Mr. Miller and family attend the German Baptist Church and are good and 
influential peojsle. 

Daniel D. Shrock. The Shrock family is one of the most respected in Elkhart 
county, Ind., and is descended from sturdy German stock, the great-grandfather of 
our sal)ject, Casper Shrock, having emigrated from Germany to America when a 
single man. He came with a brother and settled in Pennsylvania, where he married 
and reared a family. His son John, the grandfather of our subject, was born in 
that State and there married a Miss Miller, who bore him a large family of children, 
only five of whom are remembered: John, Henry, Andrew, Lizzie and Daniel. After 
residing in his native State for many years John Shrock moved to Holmes county, 
Ohio, and was one of the early settlers of the same. His son, Daniel, father of sub- 
ject, was also a native of the Keystone State, and was a young man when the family 
settled in Holmes county, Ohio. He was reared on a farm and learned the carding 
business, but was also engaged in the saw-mill business. He married Miss Margaret, 
daughter of John Bontrager, and six children blessed this union, viz.: Mary, John, 
Jacob, Eli, Daniel and Moses, all natives of Holmes county, Ohio. Mr. Shrock 
owned a good farm in Holmes county, also a saw-mill and carding-mill, and was a 
very prosperous man. Both he and wife were members of the Amish Mennonite 




^^u^yiu<^£uu^^^y^^ 



MEMOIBS OF INDIANA. 581 

Cliurcb, as were their forefathers. lu 1841 Mr. Shrock moved to Elkhart county, 
Ind., with a four-horse team, was eleven days in making the journey, and reached 
Elkhart Prairie June 6. He rented an old log house iu which the family lived 
for a few days, aud then bought 300 acres in a body, part of which is now oc- 
cupied by his son, our subject. At that time there were but seven acres cleared and 
he moved on his farm the 12th of June. With the assistance of his sons, he began 
clearing his place aud as there was a saw-mill on his place when he bought it, he 
did a great deal of sawing, business coming from a considerable distance, it being the 
only saw-mill in the county. After the death of his lirst wife Mr. Shrock married 
Miss Melissa De Francis. He was seventy-six years of age at the time of his death, 
which occurred three miles east of Goshen, and he was a man whose uj)rightness and 
honesty placed him among the representative citizens of the couuty. In politics he 
espoused the principles of the Democratic party and held the office of county com- 
missioner several terms. His son, Daniel D. Shrock, the original of this notice, 
owes his nativity to Holmes county, Ohio, born Sej^tember 6, 1830, and while grow- 
ing up received very little education, learning to read and write after his marriage. 
He was eleven years of age when he came to Indiana with his father and well 
remembers the journey. His youthful days were passed in his father's mill and in 
March, 1850, he married Miss Susannah Schrock, daughter of Peter and Barbara 
(Miller) Schrock (see sketch of G. Schrock). To oiir subject and wife were Ijorn 
six children who lived to mature years, as follows: David, Jonathan, Nancy, Eliza- 
beth, Levina aud Daniel. After his marriage Mr. Shrock settled on a farm in Clin- 
ton township, four miles east of Goshen, 120 acres of land, thirty acres of which 
had been cleared, and began immediately to improve and develop the remainder. 
He soon had a good farm, but only resided ou this for six years; sold for $3,000; 
and in 1856, he went to St. Joseph county, Mich., and bought 100 acres of 
land to which he added 120 acres a year later, making 280 acres in all. Ou this he 
resided for sis years and then, iu 1862, traded this for the farm now occupied by 
Samuel Troyn, which consisted of 214 acres, and here made his home for fifteen 
years. He moved to his present farm and mill in 1876, rented his farm, which con- 
sisted of 428 acres to his sons, David and Jonathan, and he himself ran the mill. 
He carries on the business at the present time and his sons are carrying on the 
farm. He now owns, besides his mill, about 200 acres. He gave his children 
each .$1,700 to start in life and has been liberal to them in other ways. All his 
property has been accumulated by hard work and industry and he can now enjoy 
the fruits of a life well spent. He has about $3,600 at interest. He and wife are 
members of the Amish Menuonite Church and Mr. Shrock has been deacon for twelve 
year.^. He is an honest, hard-working man, and he and family are highly esteemed 
in the community. 

William D. Platteb. Probably there is not a man in Elkhart or the adjoining 
counties better known that this gentleman. He is a native of the Buckeye State, 
his birth occurring in Koss county, September 14, 1831. Five years later he was 
brought by his parents to Indiana, aud with them located in Elkhart county, about 
twelve miles from Goshen, near the present site of Nappanee, which was so far 
beyond the settlement that before teams could be driven to Goshen it became neces- 
sary to fell trees aud make a roadway for fully live of the twelve miles. The hard- 
ships and privations they endured were such as the present generation knows nothing 
about aud can not even realize. For some time after making their location the 
family lived in a rude log structure without doors or windows, the fire used 
for cooking and warming purposes being built in the center of the house with 
a hole in the roof for the smoke to escape. There were but few neighl>ors and 
but few advantages for obtaining an education. Under these circumstances William 
D. Platter passed his boyhood and early manhood. Few were the opiiortunities 
that were presented even for the most energetic and thrifty to obtain more than 
a bare living, but young Platter, with a zeal and energy that have been char- 

34 



583 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPUICAL 

acteristic of his life ever since, decided to dare and do, and, if such a thing were 
possible, to gain a competency, and with this end in view set energeticallj' to woikto 
accomplish his purpose. His first decided efforts in this direction were when he 
becan in a modest way to manufacture pumps. He would select the timber stand- 
ing in the woods and from this, with his own hand and unaided by the many mag- 
nificent devices of the present time, manufacture his own pumps. It was "making 
them from the stump" in the fullest sense of the term. From this small and slow 
beginning he steadily increased his business until it has culminated in both the 
Goshen and I. X. L. Pump Manufactories of Goshen — two enterprises that reflect 
crreat credit upon their originator and that are of great pecuniary benefit to the town 
in which they are located. Besides these industries he has been closely identified 
with many other concerns that have materially assisted in making Goshen the great 
manufacturing and commercial town that it is. In fact, he is of the stuff of which 
model citizens are made, for besides being industrious and enterprising he is public 
spirited to a degree. He has always been keenly alive to his own interests, but 
never to such a degree as to defraud or take advantage of his fellows, his record 
beinc especially spotless in this respect. Although he has always been a stanch 
Republican he has never aspired to office. He is a member of the Reformed Church 
and has lived the life of a consistent Christian. He takes an active interest in edu- 
cational and religious objects, and he is notably a generous man in his gifts and 
benefactions to the poor and needy. He was elected vice-president and director of 
the State Bank of Goshen, which was formerly the Farmers' & Citizens' Bank, and 
in this capacity showed himself to be the right man in the right place. He was a 
strong Union man during the war and contributed liberally of his means to carry it 
on. The output of his pump manufactories and other concerns, lumber included, 
amounts to about $150,000 annually. On June 5, 1852, Miss Mary Stutsman, a 
most worthy lady, became his wife, but was called from life October 8, 1879. The 
parents of William D. were George and Ann (Andrews) Platter, the former of whom 
was born in Ross county, Ohio, and the latter in Maryland. They were married in 
Ohio and became the parents of eight children, four of whom are yet living. Chris- 
ley Platter, the father of George, was a native of Germany, but left the Fatherland 
to seek a home in a new country and among a strange people. He eventually drifted 
to Ohio where he married and reared a family. He served as a soldier in the colo- 
nial army during the Revolution. Both George and Ann Platter are deceased. 
After the death of his first wife William D. Platter took for his second wife, in 
1883, Lucy Mishler, a native of Johnstown, Penn. He is now one of the trustees 
in building a Reformed Church in Goshen and has agreed to pay one half of the 
cost of building the new church, which will amount to about §8,000 when completed. 
Hon. John B. Walk. The vocation of the pharmacist is unquestionably a highly 
important one in any and every community, for upon his care and skill, almost as 
much as that displayed by the medical profession, oftentimes depends the physical 
welfare of the sick and ailing. Mr. Walk has an attractive store in Goshen, which 
is deservedly accorded the recognition of the medical profession and the liberal 
■ patronage of the general piiblic. His store is fitted with every convenience, espe- 
cially as regards its prescription department, and his stock of drugs includes every- 
thing needed in the trade, consisting of pharmaceutical supplies, patent medicines, 
physicians' supplies, fine perfumeries and such fancy articles as are usually found 
in a first class pharmacy. Mr. Walk was born in Stark county, Ohio, September 
24, 1847, a son of Jacob M. and Catherine (Staub) Walk, the former of whom was 
born in Lancaster county. Penn., and the latter in Germany. She came to the United 
States with her parents when three years old and was reared in this country. She 
was called from life in Ohio after having borne a family of three sons and two 
daughters, all of whom are living but are widely separated. Throughout life Jacob 
M. Walk followed the occupation of farming, and on the old homestead in Ohio the 
subject of this sketch spent his early days, his initiatory education being obtained 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 583 

in the cominoQ countiy schools, but which was supplemented by a two years' attend- 
ance in Mount Union College. Upon leaving this institution he became a clerk in a 
drug store in Canton, but in 1872, in company with his brother. Henry M. , he came 
to Goshen and embarked in the drug trade, their partnership successfully continu- 
ing for twelve years. At the end of this time John B. purchased his brother's inter- 
est and has since conducted the establishment alone. He is an expert, thorough, 
conscientious pharmacist, who thoroughlj- understands the business, and his charges 
are always reasonable. On the 27th of November, 1871, Miss Mary Lewis became 
his wife. She was born in Armstrong connty, Penn., in January, 1S50, and has 
borne her husband one child, Wilina, who was born on the 27th of March, 1875. 
Mr. Walk has been a lifelong Republican and has taken an active part in his party's 
councils and aided in all ways in his power in its battles. He has held the office of 
city clerk, and is the present most efficient, trusty and faithful mayor of Goshen. In 
the last mentioned capacity he is alive to the interests of the town, has done a great 
deal to improve it in many ways, and is considered one of the most capaljle and 
faithful men that ever filled that chair. He is a member of the Masonic order and 
has taken the Council degrees. He has held the office of master, high priest and 
illustrious master, and is the present master of Goshen Lodge, No. 12, F. & A. M. 
Mr. Walk is progressive in his ideas and tendencies and favors all reforms and enter- 
prises that tend to build up the locality in which he resides, or that will benefit his 
fellow man. 

A. P. Kent, one of the publishers and proprietors of the Elkhart Review, a local 
newspaper that appeals to all classes, was born in Adrian. Mich. , May 19, 1847, 
but his parents. Burton and Caroline (Palmer) Kent, were born in Derry. N. H. , 
and Unadilla, N. Y. , respectively. The father was a civil engineer by profession, and 
for many years followed this occupation in Adrian. Mich., whither he moved in 1844, 
and where he is still living. A. P. Kent was educated in Hamilton College of Clin- 
ton, N. Y., at which institution he graduated in 1870. The year following this he 
came to Elkhart, and with the intention of devoting his life to journalism, purchased 
an interest in the Weekly Review. It is published in the interests of the community, 
and especial attention is paid to local affairs. Moreover, it reviews intelligently the 
public issues of the day, its editorials are ably written, and Mr. Kent does not 
hesitate to express his views in forcible and convincing language, especially upon 
any question of reform. Its advertising columns are well tilled and show that the 
merchants of Elkhart appreciate it as a medium for making themselves known to the 
public. In 1872 the proprietors established the Daily Review, which has been piib- 
lished continuously ever since, and which has met with undoubted success. During 
the years that he has been a resident of Elkhart, he has won his way to a high place 
in the estimation of its citizens; in fact, he has the happy faculty of winning friends, 
and keeping them after they are won. The cause of education has ever found in 
him a stanch friend, and from 1879 to 1882 he ably filled the position of superin- 
tendent of the public schools of Elkhart, during which time he made unceasing ef- 
forts to raise the standard of education. He has made a success of enterprises to 
which he has directed his attention. In 1874 Miss Emma L. Newell, who was horn 
in Concord, N. H. , in 1856, became his wife. 

John Himbaugh is one of the foremost business men of Goshen, Ind. , and runs 
the largest dairy in the city. He is a descendant of good old Pennsylvania stock, 
his father, George Himbaugh, as well as his grandfather, George Himbaugh, Sr. , 
being natives of Snyder county, Penn. The grandfather was a large farmer in his 
county and became quite well to do. His marriage resulted in the birth of seven 
children: Henry, John, Jacob George, Peter, Michael, Catherine and Mary. The 
father of these children was a Lutheran in his religious belief and died on his 
farm in Pennsylvania. He was an honorable and industrious man. George Him- 
baugh, Jr., father of subject, received a common-school education and when six- 
teen years of age went to Ohio. He learned the stone mason's trade, but his princi- 



584 PICTORIAL AND BIOOHAPIIICAL 

pal occupation iu life was tilling the soil and he was unusually successful in this. 
He was one of the pioneers of Portage county, Ohio, and cleared up a farm from the 
heavy timber, eighty acres, to which ho added from time to time until he owned 
120 acres of excellent land. He was married in the Buckeye State to Miss Margaret 
Shick, who bore him twelve children as follows: Catherine, Peter, Mary, Levi. John, 
Lavina, Henry, Christian, Reriben, Margaret, Benjamin (deceased), and Nathan. 
Mr. and Mrs. Himbangh are members of the Lutheran Church, and in politics the 
former was a stanch Democrat. In 1852 Mr. Himbaugh came to Elkhart county, 
Ind., brouo-ht his family, and settled in Concord towuship, on a partly cleared farm 
of 160 acres. This he Huished clearing and made a good home, having excellent 
buildino-s and other improvements. His death occurred on this farm when sixty-six 
vears of acre. He was a hard-working, industrious man, aud a liberal supporter of 
iiis church, having assisted with his means in building the Lutheran church in Con- 
cord township. His son, John Himbaugh, was born on the old home place in 
Portage county, Ohio, November, 25, 18-10, and the common schools afforded him a 
fair education. When twelve years of age he came with his parents to Elkhart 
county Ind., and another twelve years saw him wedded to Miss Martha A., daughter 
of Hezekiah Jameson. Two children, Charles (born December 9, 1865) and Myrtle 
(born December 3, 1869), were the fruits of this union. After marriage Mr. Himbaugh 
remained on his father's farm for a number of years and then moved to Jefferson 
township, this county, where he remained until 1873. From there he moved to 
Goshen, and in 1879 he embarked in the dairy business. He is now the largest 
•dairyman in Goshen, usually keeps a herd of thirty cows, aud has a prosperous busi- 
ness". In 1886 he bought afarm near Nappanee of 120 acres and this he rents. In 
polities he is a Democrat. Mrs. Himbaugh died in 1871 and Mr. Himbaugh mar- 
ried Miss Margaret A. Dausman, daughter of Jacob and Margaret (Snyder) Daus- 
man. Mr. Dausman came from Germany to this country when sixteen years of age, 
and married here. To Mr. and Mrs. Himbaugh have been born two children: W. 
A., born July 13, 1876, and Orlo C, born April 7, 1878. Mr. Himbaugh is a prac- 
tical agriculturist and runs a farm of 150 acres besides his dairy business. He is a 
substantial citizen and a man of integrity of character. Mr. Himbaugh and wife 
are believers in education and are sending their children to the graded school of 
Goslieu. Mrs. Himbaugh's father was a tailor by trade and could speak the German 
and French language. He settled iu Indiana, was married there to Miss Margaret 

Snyder, daughter of Jacob and Snyder, of Huntington, county, Ind. Jacob 

Snyder Was of pioneer Dutch stock and descended from an old colonial family. He 
was one of the pioneers of Huntington county, Ind.. and cleared up a farm from the 
timber. He was the father of a large family of children and died in Huntington 
county, Ind., when quite aged. Immediately following his marriage Mr. Dausman 
settled on land in Mt. Etna, Ind., and cleared up a farm. A number of years later 
he moved to Elkhart county, Ind. , settling in Concord township. His death occurred 
when fifty-six years of age. Both Mr. and Mrs. Dausman were members of the Ger- 
man ReformedChurch and he was a Democrat in politics. Ethan A., son of Mr. Daus- 
man and brother of Mrs. Himbaugh, was born in Elkhart county, January 3. 1862. 
and received a common-school education. He also attended the Valparaiso Normal 
School and read law with Daniel Zook, Esq., of Nappanee. He began the practice 
of his profession in the last named town in 1886 and met with flattering success 
from the start. In May, 1892, he came to Gosheu and has built up a practice. In 
politics he is a stanch Democrat and has been a candidate for State senator on that 
ticket. He is entirely a self-made man, having gained his education by his own ef- 
forts and his record is untarnished. Mrs. Himbaugh is a member of the Reformed 
Church and a lady of unusual ability. 

George Fkeese, Se., was born in Rhanderfahn. East Freesland, Germany, Jan- 
uary 2, 1831, lieing a son of Bernhard Freese, a sailor, who lost his life iu the North 
Sea, and was buried on the Island of Hilgerland in 1841. George was one of four 



MEitOIRS OF I y DIANA. 585 

children, the eldest of whom was drowned at the same time as his father and buried 
by his side. The second child was John, who is still in the old country; the next 
was the subject of this sketch, and the youngest was a daughter who never came to 
this country. George Free.se was but ten years of age at the time his father was 
drowned, soon after which he was taken to raise by an uncle, but, inheriting the love 
of salt water from his father, he ran away at the age of twelve years and went to 
sea. For fourteen years he was a sailor on the ocean, and during that time visited 
many different countries of the New and Old Worlds, such as South America, IheHoly 
Laud and other countrie.s. He made his first trip to this country when a bo}' of 
fourteen years, after which he made a number of trips to New York City, and finally 
took up his residence there, and was married on January 9, 1855, to Miss Catherine 
Bohn, who was born in South Germany on the beautiful river Rhine. She came to 
this country with some lady friends a few years before her marriage. She was born 
February 11,1829. George Freese continued to follow the sea after his marriage, 
but was persuaded by his wife to abandon it. and the incident leading thereto is 
worthy of mention. He was to sail on the Washington steamer, and the same was about 
to leave port with a large cargo for foreign parts, which consisted of gunpowder and 
Tarious other things. His wife was with him on the docks, and had their only child, 
Bernhard, in her arms. She implored him not to go. saying that something told her 
that he would never come back, and he finally gave up his intended trip and returned 
with her to their home. Two weeks later this steamer was lost at sea, being blown 
up. This was the turning point in the life of George Freese, and he began working 
in a butter and egg house in New York City, and a few years later he bought out the 
business and continued alone for sometime. After selling out his establishment he 
moved to Freeport. 111., where he opened a like establishment, but was not satisfied 
with the business done at that point, and sold out for the purpose of returning with 
his family to New York City, but on reaching Elkhart, Ind., the thought struck him 
that this would be a good business point, and here, in 1859, he established a butter 
and egg emporium, which he successfully conducted for eight years. He then sold 
his business and with his family took a trip to his native land, and on account of the 
ill health of his wife remained about four months. They then returned to America 
and settled at Crown Point, Ind., where he once more began dealing in butter and 
eggs, but, not liking the place, sold out and bought out a business in Goshen. Ind., 
and for eighteen years was a resident of that town. In 1880 he sold out to Turpen 
& Harris, of Union City, Ind. , and moved to Cresco. Iowa, where he started in busi- 
ness by buying out a butter concern, but did not remain there long. He returned to 
Goshen, opened a real estate office, and erected a number of buildings. He was not 
satisfied with his choice of business, so disposed of it and came to Nappauee, where, 
in companj' with J. B. Eckhart, he became interested in a butter tub factory, and at 
the end of one year Ijought out Mr. Eckhart and carried on the business alone. In 
the meantime he started a general store in company with Mr. Fluegel. which con- 
tinued four years. During this time Freese, Fluegel & Co. started a creamer}- busi- 
ness, anil four years later George Freese bought out the interest of the company and 
began looking after the entire business. In 1887 he sold his butter tub factory to 
B. UHne, and in 1886 disposed of his mercantile business also. He continued to 
conduct a creamery and egg business until his death. In 1890 he changed the name 
of the business to George Freese & Sous, giving the three eldest sons equal shares, and 
before his death he asked that the name of the firm should not be changed. He died 
on August 23, 1890, at the age of fifty-nine years, his widow still surviving him in 
her sixty-fourth year. She is the mother of six children: Bernhard, born in New 
York City December 18, 1856; Kittie, also born there in 1858, is a widow (Mrs. 
Fale.'-). and resides in Nappanee with her mother, having one son, George; George, 
Jr., was born at Elkhart, Ind., April 21, 1861: John F. was born at Elkhart in 1865; 
Lucmda died when ten mouths old; Edward, tbe youngest, was born at Goshen in 
1872, and is living with his mother. Mrs. Freese is a member of the Methodist Episco- 



586 PICTORIAL A^D BIOGUAPIIIVAL 

pal Church. About twenty five years before his death her husband became conuected 
■with the Methodist Church, and remained true to that faith until the last. Although 
his early life was in great contrast to his later career, he ever conducted himself in 
a manner becoming au honorable man, and had scarcely an enemy, but on the con- 
trary niunerous friends. He was an active worker in church ailairs, was very gener- 
ous in the use of his money for the furtherance of the Christian doctrine, and in his 
native town of Germany he erected a Methodist Church at a heavy cost to himself. 
In politics he was first a Republican, but later became a Prohibitionist, and was 
much interested in temperance work. His energy brought him in ample returns, and 
he left not only a large amount of money to his children, but also the heritage of an 
unsullied name. He was genial and generous in disposition, those who had business 
relations with him were his friends, and at all times his voice was loud in advocating 
good causes. His example was felt by all who knew him, and he reared his sons to 
believe in truth, justice and right, and to become honest and industrious business 
men. He sent his two eldest sons to be educated in the German Wallace College of 
Berea, Ohio, the two youngest receiving their educations in the high schools of 
Goshen and Nappanee. The health of Mrs. Freese has not been good for some years, 
but she greatly enjoys the society of her children and her many friends. Mr. 
Freese handled butter and eggs for so long that his name became well known through- 
out the county, and any tub of butter marked with his name was a sufficient guaran- 
tee that the article was of the best, as well as that the tub contained the correct num- 
ber of pounds. He established a plant in the way of a creamery that was capable of 
making 2,000 pounds of butter per day, and he invented many ways and means to 
facilitate the handling of butter and eggs. The business, which is now carried on 
by his son, is prosperous, and is managed on the plan which was established by the 
father. 

Bernhard Freese, the eldest son, was a child when his father settled in Elkhart 
and in the schools of that city and Goshen he received his early education, later 
attending college in Ohio as above stated. As soon as old enough he began assist- 
ing his father in business, all his time when out of school being spent in his father's 
place of business. He has followed in the footsteps of his father in his views of pol- 
itics, and was first a Republican and now a Prohibitionist. He is pirblic spirited, a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is now a trustee in the same at 
Nappanee. He is a member of the E. of P. and is a young man of excellent habits, 
and is classed among the best business men of the thriving town of Nappanee. 
November 11, ISSO, he was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Fluegel, who was a 
daughter of William and Louisa Fluegel, both of whom were born in Germany, and 
came to this country about 1855, settling in Goshen, Ind. There the father died on 
June 21, 1886, the mother being still a resident of that place. She bore nine chil- 
dren, the following of whom are living: William, Louisa, Lena, Amelia and Ida. 
The rest died in infancy. Mrs. Freese was born in Goshen, March 5, 1859, and in 
the public schools of Go.shen obtained her education. She has borne her husband one 
child, Karl, who was born November 18, 1883. She is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, is deeply interested in church work, and she and her husband are 
classed among the substantial residents of Nappanee. 

George Freese, Jr., is no less prominent in business circles than was his father, 
and is well known throughout northern Indiana. He is the second son and third 
child born to his parents, and first saw the light of day on April 21, 1801. Besides 
attending the public schools of his native place he attended college in Ohio, and by 
applying himself closely to his studies while there he was a well-informed young 
man upon leaving the institution. He has since devoted himself to the business 
founded by his father, and his early efforts have borne abundant fruit, for his repu 
tation as a business man has extended all over the northern part of the State. He 
acts as traveling salesman for the firm of George Freese' s Sons, and in that capacity 
had advanced the business to a remarkable degiee. He is practical, far-seeing and 



MEMOIUS OF INDIANA. 587 

shrewd, yet has always carried out the pronounced principles for which the firm has al- 
ways been distiucjuished. and is strictly honorable in all his business transactions. He is 
far above the average man in bxisiness ability, and manifested these practical quali- 
ties when he, at an early day, first entered upon his duties in his father's establishment. 
From his noble father he learned lessons of honesty, industry and prudence which 
have been his stepping stones to success. He is cordial and genial in his manners, 
is an agreeable companion and his friends are innumerable. He is a gentleman in 
the truest sense of the word, is generous in contributing to enterprises that deserve 
his consideration, and socially is a member of the K. of P. Lodge of Nappanee, in 
which he occupies a prominent place. He is well-known along the line of the Balti- 
more & Ohio Railroad, as well as various other roads, and all the towns in northern 
Indiana are familiar with the butter made at the creamery of George Freese's Sous. 
He is a stanch Republican, is much interested in politics, and is well posted on the 
leading questions of the day. He selected for a wife Miss Sadie Edger, who was born 
in Syracuse. Ind. , November 30, 18(52, being one of nine children born to Thomas 
and Julia (Atterburg) Edger, the former of whom was born in the State of New York 
and came to Indiana at an early day, settling at Leesburg. He was a soldier in the 
late war and died in 1879, his widow's death occumng in 1891. Their children 
were as follows: William, Margaret, Sadie, Charles, Thomas, Pearl, Mary, Lou and 
Fred. Mrs. Freese was reared in Leesburg, and there obtained her education. She 
is an accomplished needlewoman and is also skilled in painting. She and her hus- 
band are living in a cosy and comfortable home on Main street, where their many 
friends are ever welcome. 

John F. Freese, the fourth child born to George Freese, was bom in August, 
1865, in Elkhart, and is at present an active member of the well-known firm of 
George Freese's Sons. He attended the schools of Goshen and Nappanee, where he 
thoroughly fitted himself for the practical business life he has led. Like his brothers, 
when quite young, he entered the business house of his father, and there gained a 
practical insight into the details of the establishment, and he is by no means a silent 
partner of the concern. He also acts as a traveling salesman of the firm, and does 
business in the various towns of the county, as well as in those of the adjoining coun- 
ties. He is a young man of good habits, is of a social disposition, and his friends 
are many wherever he is known. He is a member of the Prohibition party, and 
socially is a member of the K. of P. of Nappanee. He is very fond of fine horses, 
has a number of thoroughbreds, and is considered an exceptionally good judge of 
horse flesh. He was united in marriage to Miss Emma Hemminger, daughter of 
Jacob Hemminger, and by her has one daughter. They reside on Main street in 
Nappanee. 

Edward Freese is the youngest son of George Freese, and is a native of Goshen, 
where he was born in 1872. He is well educated, and is showing himself to be a 
young man of tine business qualifications, and his prospects for a successful future 
are bright. He is unmarried and is living with his mother and sister at the family 
residence on Main street. He takes ab active interest in the afEairs of the firm, owns 
an equal share in the business, and is a young man of excellent habits. 

Jons Lusher, Sr., now living in La Porte, lud., is a worthy representative of 
that honest, industrious and law-abiding class that has helped make America the 
most favored nation on the face of the globe. Of poor but honest parentage, his 
birth occurred in Canton Argau, Switzerland. January 29. 1813, being one in a family 
of two sons and two daughters bom to the marriage of Jacob Lusher and Mary 
Walty, who lived and died in their native country. The compulsory school laws of 
Switzerland enabled John Lusher to secure a more than common education, and 
when yet a Ixsy he mastered the machinist's trade. For a wife he selected Mary, the 
daughter of John Rudolph Luthy, her mother's maiden name being Blackman, and 
their early wedded life was passed by Mr. Lusher in working at the blacksmith's 
trade. Finding that he could only barely provide the necessities of life for himself 



588 PICTORIAL AND BIOGIiAPUICAL 

aud family by working early and late, he determined to risk everything by leaving 
the land of his birth to seek a nevF home in the great Republic across the sea. 
Together with his wife and live children he left Switzerland for London, and from 
there they took passage on the British sailing vessel "Henry," bound for New York. 
The barbarous cruelty of the captain in jJroviding only the poorest rations, and not 
half enough of them, for his steerage passengers, caused a great deal of sickness, 
and to Mr. and Mrs. Lusher it meant the death of one child, Rudolph, who was 
buried at sea. Six weeks were consumed in making the voyage, and upon arrival in 
this country they first settled near Tiffin, Ohio, where Mr. Lusher worked at his 
trade. Later he moved to Clyde, Ohio, where he followed blacksmithing, but his 
ignorance of the language and customs of America resulted in loss by reason of dis- 
honest persons taking undue advantage of him. From here he moved to Adrian, 
Mich.; La Porte, Ind. ; and Iowa, residing a short time in eacli place, losing in the 
latter State every dollar he possessed, and being compelled to borrow money with which 
to purchase transportation back to Indiana. Again locating in La Forte, he has 
ever since made it his home, and has won the respect of all his neighbors by reason 
of his industry and honesty. For 3'ears he was engaged in the railroad car shops at 
this place, but, owing to his advanced age, is now living a practically retired life. 
Being of an inventive turn of mind he conceived and had patented an ingenious 
device for slicing vegetables, which, for simplicity and utility, at once commends 
itself to the public. From the sale of this invention Mr. Lusher realizes a com- 
fortable income. Mrs. Mary Lusher, the wife of John Lusher, Sr. , was always a 
faithful wife and devoted mother. She shared the adversities of life with Christian 
fortitude and reared her children in the belief that the proper mode of life was to 
do good, be honest, and above all to follow that divine injunction: " Do unto oth- 
ers as you would be done by." After living a long life of usefulness she died at 
La Porte on Tuesday, November 29, 1892, and was buried two days later. Mr. 
Lusher yet survives her, a hale, hearty old man, carrying the weight of eighty years 
on bis shoulders with the ease that many men do when twenty years younger. Of 
the fourteen children born to him and wife only seven are now living. A brief sketch 
of each of these seven is here given: John Lusher, born in Switzerland on Novem- 
ber 9, 1840, became a resident of La Porte, Ind., when twenty years old, where he 
worked in railroad shops ten years. Since 1873 he has been a general merchant at 
Elkhart, Ind. , where he is considered one of the substantial and well-to-do men of 
the place. In 1859 he married Cynthia Garland, who died after bearing a family of 
six children. In 1874 he married his present wife, who vyas formerly Rhoda Her- 
rold. Samuel Lusher was born November 27, 1842, and has been twice married — 
first to Sarah Garrett, who bore him seven children, and his second wife being Bertha 
Owens. He is now engaged in business at Sac City, Iowa, where he is recognized 
as one of the leading citizens. Mary Lusher was born May 28, 1847, married Gil- 
bert R. Tyrrell, is the mother of two sons and resides in La Porte, Ind. Rosa 
Lusher was born January 11, 1854, wedded Matthew Herrold, by whom she is the 
mother of one son and three daughters, and is a resident of Elkhart, Ind. Rudolph 
Lusher was born April 26, 1857, at Adrian, Mich., was reared to manhood in La 
Porte, Ind., where he received a common-school education, and where he learned, 
and for a time worked at the machinist's trade. In company with his brother Frank 
he was engaged in mercantile pursuits at Sac City, Iowa, for a time, but for the 
past few years has been successfully engaged in merchandising at Elkhart, Ind. 
Julia Lusher was born April 2, 1860, and is the only one of the children living at 
the old home in La Porte, Ind. Frank Lusher is the youngest one of the family 
now living. He vvas born at La Porte, Ind., October 14, 1882, aud attended 
school until about fourteen years old. For about a year he then clerked at 
Elkhart for his brother John; then, in compan}' with Rudolph, opened a gro- 
cery and crockery store at Sac City, Iowa. Their motto was to sell for cash, 
make many sales and small profits. Their business was a success, but in order 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 689 

to be near their parents, wLo were growing old, they sold out and returned to 
Indiana. For the past few years Frank and Rudolph, under the firm name of 
Lusher Bros. , have conducted a profitable mercantile business in Elkhart. Being 
young men of energy and ability, they have justly attained the rank of being among 
the foremost merchants of Elkhart. 

John H. Walters is a native of Mahoning county, Ohio, where he was born 
July 7, 1852. When only nine months old he was brought to the State of Indiana, 
and on a farm in Elkhart county he grew to manhood, obtaining his education in 
the district schools near his rural home. He followed farming until about 1884, 
commenciug for himself about 1878, but in the former year he abandoned the work 
and began dealing in grain at Teegarden in Marshall county, where he lived for six 
years. Following this he came to Nappanee and after working fonr years in the 
box factory of Coppes Bros., he entered the store of his brother, in whose drug 
store he has since remained. He was married in 1875 to Miss Christina Weaver, 
whose birth occurred in Ohio, January 14, 1855, she being a daughter of David and 
Bardric (Kauffman) Weaver, who were of German descent and natives of Pennsyl- 
vania. They came to Indiana from Ohio about 1870. The result of Mr. Weaver's 
union has been seven children: Ammial, Rebecca, Christena, Mary, Lucinda, David 
and Susan. Mr. and Mrs. Walters have three children: Melvina, who was born 
January 14, 1876; Nora, born March 22, 1878, and Daniel, born January 26, 1879. 
The family attend the Amish Menuonite Church, and in his political views Mr. 
Walters is independent, voting for the man rather than the party. He is devoting his 
earnest attention to the drug business, is now doing well financially, and has a good 
home in the eastern part of Nappanee. He met with reverses in the grain business, 
having been burned out, and thus lost everything that he owned. He is actively 
identified with school and church matters, as well as kindred enterprises for the 
benefit of his community, and is a well-respected citizen. 

James A. Roach inherits the sturdy perseverance of his English ancestors, for 
from that country the founders of the family came and settled in the woods of 
Pennsylvania, where they identified themselves with the religious sect — the Quakers 
— and tradition says they were among the original settlers of the Keystone State. 
The paternal great-grandfather of James A. Roach lived in Virginia, where he fol- 
lowed the calling of a gunsmith and made many of the old-fashioned flint-lock 
guns for the continental army during the Revolutionary period. Mahlan Roach, 
the grandfather, was born in Lancaster county, Va., and in early life followed the 
calling of a miller. He was married on Virginia soil, and by his wife became the 
father of one child, Francis. About 1816 he moved to Warren county, Ohio, and 
settled on a large tract of wild land which he bought, and there he cleared up two 
good farms, becoming a substantial and wealthy farmer. His second wife was 
Elizabeth Young, of the city of Washington, daughter of Abraham Young and one 
of the proprietors of the original tract of land on which the city of Washington now 
stands. He was also wealthy and died in 1798. The second union of Mr. Roach 
resulted in the birth of seven children: James, William, John, Charles, Abraham, 
Ann and Sarah. The father of these children attained to the advanced age of 
eighty-four years, his death occurring in 1852. He was a Quaker and his second 
marriage was out of the church, since which time the family has not identified itself 
with that religious denomination. He was a man whose judgment was respected by 
the people and for many years he discharged the duties of justice of the peace and 
adjusted the difiiculties of his neighbors with great fairness. James A. Roach, his 
son and the father of the gentleman whose name heads this sketch, was born on his 
father's farm in Loudoun county, Va., January 2, 1811, and was given such educa- 
tional advantages as could be had in his day, at the same time learning the details 
of farming. At the age of about seven years he was taken by his parents to Ohio 
where he attained man's estate and led to the altar Mariah, daughter of Jeremiah 
Hamplon, one of the early settlers of Warren county, Ohio from Virginia, and the 



590 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

father of a large family of children. To Mr. anrl Mrs. James Roach eight children 
were born: Mahlau F., Thomas W., James A., Elizabeth (who died at the age of 
eighteen years), John A., Charles (who died when fifteen years of age), Franklin 
F. (who died during the Civil war while serving in Company I, Seventy-fourth 
Indiana Volunteer Infantrj), and Sarah J. After his marriage Mr. Koach resided 
in Ohio until his three eldest children were born, moving to Elkhart county, Ind., 
in the fall of 1840, and settling on a farm near Benton, March 4, 1841, which then 
consisted of 120 acres, only five acres of which were cleared. By the exercise of 
brain and brawn he increased his land to 520 acres and gave each of his children 
eighty acres, or nearly that amount. He was interested in and a patron of the pub- 
lic schools, was first an old line Whig in politics and afterward a Republican, and 
died at the age of forty- eight years, October 14, 1858, a highly honored citizen. He 
left a well-respected family of children who are now honorable citizens of the county. 
James A. Roach, whose name heads this sketch, is a product of Warren county, 
Ohio, his natal day and year being March 18, 183S, and was not yet three years of 
age when brought hj his parents to Indiana. When quite a small boy he began to 
assist his father on the farm, for much labor was required to clear the heavy timber 
land of that region, but in the meantime he acquired a practical education in the 
pioneer schools of his day and afterward attended school at Goshen and Hillsdale, 
Mich. Being extremely patriotic, he was one of the first to respond to his country's 
call for troops. He returned home from school and in the fall of 1861, on the 16th 
of October, he enlisted in Company K, Thirtieth Regiment Indiana Volunteer In- 
fantry, the fortunes of which he followed for three long years. He was in the battles 
of Liberty Gap, Teun.. siege of Corinth, siege of Atlanta and in numerous skirmishes. 
In the latter siege of Atlanta his regiment was under fire for 105 days, out of 125 
days. He was also in the battles of Jonesboro and Peach Tree Creek. The first 
time he was taken ill during his service he was in the hospitals at Nashville and 
Louisville and received a furlough home for three days. He rejoined his regiment 
just prior to the siege of Corinth, but was again taken sick and four weeks were 
spent in the Louisville hospital. Upon convalescing he again rejoined his regiment. 
He did gallant and faithful service while in the army, fearlessly faced rebel bullets 
and was true to every trust reposed in him. On November 17, 1871, he was united 
in marriage to Miss Paulina, daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Woods) Baker, the 
former of whom was born in Madison county, Ohio, of English parents. He 
was the father of six children who lived to grow up: Abigail, Mary R., Ann E., 
Josephine, Paulina and Commodore P. Mr. Baker was a farmer of Kosciusko 
county, Ind., but became a farmer of Elkhart county in 1844, his land amounting 
to 120 acres, all of which he cleared and improved. He and his wife were members 
of the Church of God, in which he was class leader for six years. He died in 18 — 
at the age of fifty-three years, a substantial farmer, and an industrious, progressive 
and useful citizen. He was a Republican politically. Mrs. Roach was born Febru- 
ary 11, 1845, and after her marriage she and her husband settled on their present 
farm, which then consisted of 130 acres of partly cleared land, to which he has since 
added forty acres more. This land is fertile, well tilled and nicely improved with 
buildings, fences, etc. Mr. and Mrs. Roach have two children: Carrie D., born 
August 13, 1872, and Albert, born October 6, 1875; the former of whom attended 
the normal school at Valparaiso. Ind., and has successfully taught six terms of 
school, her first term being taught at the extremely youthful age of fourteen years. 
Mrs. Roach is a member of the Church of God, and Mr, Roach is a Republican 
politically. He occupies a high position in the estimation of the jDeople and is 
known as a man of strict integrit}' of character. 

Dr. Amos C. Jackson is one of the highly respected and honored citizeng of Goshen, 
and has been identified with the medical profession as one of the oldest pioneer physi- 
cians of Elkhart county. In 1846 he began the practice of medicine at Goshen, but 
this was two years later than his preceptor and business associate. Dr. M. M. Latta, 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIAXA. 591 

another pioueer physician of this city. Dr. Jackson is a descendant of good old 
American colonial Virginia stock of Scotch descent. His grandfather, Peter Jackson, 
was born in Greenbrier county, Va., and was married there. He was the father of 
two sons — John and William— and several daughters. At an early day Mr. Jackson 
moved to Koss county, Ohio, and was one of the pioneers of that county, settling on 
Deer Creek, where his death occurred at the advanced age of eighty-four years. He 
was a man of strong constitution, and when quite aged rode horseback to this county 
to visit his relatives. This was in 1838, and he returned in the same manner after a 
visit of a few months. His nephew Ira and niece Elizabeth accompanied him on 
his return trip, the journey being about 300 miles. Mr. Jackson was a substantial 
farmer of Ross county and a respected and much-esteemed pioneer citizen. His judg- 
ment was respected by the peoi^le and he was one of the early justices of the peace. 
His son, Colonel John Jackson, the father of the original of this notice, was born in 
Greenbrier county, Va., in 1700, and went to Eoss county, Ohio, with his father 
when a boy. He was reared amid the pioneer scenes of that county and received a 
very good common-school education for his day. He married Catherine Carr, daugh- 
ter "of Gideon Carr, of Dutch descent, and to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson were born ten 
children: Mary, Elizabeth, Ira. Amos. Henry (who died young), Hagee, Martha, 
William, Peter" and Ann. This is the order of birth. Mr. Jackson cleared his farm 
in Ross township of the heavy timber and made a good home. He was a soldier in 
the War of 1812 and was one of the men who was in the expedition to break up the 
Pottawattomie Indian village at the south end of Elkhart Prairie in 1812, on the 
farm now occupied by John E. Thompson. These soldiers were from Fort Defiance 
on the Maumee River, in Ohio. During this expedition Colonel Jackson was captain 
of a company. The night before the soldiers arrived at this village the Indians fled 
and left much of their property. Thus Colonel Jackson became acquainted with 
Elkhart Prairie, and being much pleased with the country, he selected the spot where 
he afterward built his log cabin. In 1825 he made a visit to this region, but it 
was not until January, 1829, the roads being then hard with frost, that Colonel 
Jackson came out with some hired men and two ox teams of four oxen each, to make 
a settlement and get ready for the spring work. As before mentioned, he built a log 
cabin, and with the ox teams broke up the virgin soil. The seed-corn was dropped 
between sods and was therefore called sod-corn. A good crop was made without 
further cultivation. In the fall Colonel Jackson returned to Ohio, and with the first 
frosts of October brought out his family, making the journey with ox teams. This 
was one of the first families established on Elkhart Prairie, and Colonel Jackson 
broke the first ground on the prairie. He entered a tract of land and gradually added 
to it until he was the owner of over one thousand acres. He was one of the prominent 
pioneer citizens and was colonel of the old militia of this county for many years. 
He was one of the organizers of Elkhart county and a member of the first board of 
county commissioners. He entered eighty acres of the original plot of Goshen for 
the county. In politics he was a stanch Democrat aud represented the county in 
the State Legislature for many years. Being justice of the peace, many of the pio- 
neer cases were tried before him. He was possessed of a remarkably strong con- 
stitution and could endure extreme cold and fatigue. Both Colonel and Mrs. Jack- 
son were life-long members of the Methodist Church and their pioneer log cabin 
■was the home of the itinerant Methodist preacher, and Colonel Jackson was one of 
the founders of Methodism in this coirnty. Of a social and genial disposition and 
possessed of an unusually good heart, he was very popular among the early settlers 
and was well known throughout northern Indiana. He died in 1872 at the advanced 
age of eighty-three, and his descendants may well take pride in the stanch and 
patriotic soldier and sturdy pioneer from which they sprang. Dr. Amos C. Jackson, 
sou of the colonel, was Ijorn December 31, 1821, in Ross county, Ohio, on his father's 
farm, and was eight years of age when he came with his parents to Elkhart Prairie. 
He well remembers the trip and the appearance of the country through which they 



592 PICTORIAL ASD BIOHIIAPUICAL 

traveled. The journey through the Black Swamp in Ohio was very tedious and con- 
sumed much time and patience. The family walked much of the way. occasionally 
riding in the ox wagons. They camped at night by the wayside aud were many days 
in making the trip. Frequently they would follow Indian trails, then the road of the 
pioneer who had gone farther west, and these would become indistinct or cease alto- 
gether. To render their situation more comfortable in their cabin home, they brought, 
in their great ox wagons simple household furniture, goods aud provisions: after 
much perseverance and toil they reached their pioneer home. Dr. Jackson describes 
the appearance of Elkhart Prairie as he knew it when a boy. in all its wild and 
virgin freshness, as beautiful beyond description and covered with many varieties of 
highly colored tlowers. It was a hunter's paradise. The water of the Elkhart 
Kiverwas then as clear as crystal and full of fine fish. There were no roads, but 
Indian trails and paths made by the pioneers passed through the country in differ- 
ent directions. Dr. Jackson attended the first school ever held in Elkhart county. 
The school-house was a rude log structure, built in the center of the prairie for the 
couvenienee of the settlers on all sides of this prairie. The floor^ind seats were 
made of split logs, called puncheons, and one side of the room was devoted to an 
immense old-fashioned fireplace from which the smoke escaped by a mud-and-stick 
chimney. The first school teacher was a Yankee, who rejoiced in the name of Potts, and 
the next was Capt. Brown, father of the present editors of the Goshen Democrat. 
In that pioneer school Dr. Jackson gained the rudiments of a common education and 
in his early twenties attended the Asbury University at Greenville, Ind. . for two 
and a half years. Subsequently he attended the La Porte Medical College at 
La Porle, Ind. This college is now extinct. From this he graduated in the winter 
of 18-14-5. He also studied medicine under Dr. M. M. Latta and began practicing 
his profession at Galveston, Kosciusko Co., Ind., where he remained one year. In 
1845 he became associated with Dr. M. M. Latta in the practice of medicine and 
continued in company with him for nearly sixteen j-ears. Since that time he has 
practiced medicine on hisown account. Dr. Jackson is one of the best known of the 
pioneer physicians of Elkhart county, as at an early day he traveled far and wide, 
visiting the pioneers in all kinds of weather, both by day and night. In 1853 he 
married Miss Harriet Clark. There were uo children born to this marriage aud four 
years later Mrs. Jackson died. In 1872 the Doctor married Miss Sarah E. Burn- 
ham, daughter of Ward Burnham. of New York State. To Dr. and Mrs. Jackson 
have been born four children: Ward, Kate, John and Mary. Socially Dr. Jackson 
is a member of the I. O. O. F., having held membership in the same since 1846, aud 
has held all the ofiices of his lodge. He is a friend of education and has been a 
member of the school board for some time. For six years he was president of the 
City National Bank. The Doctor is a man of uQtarnished integrity of character 
and is well-known as a man of high moral standing. For many years his medical 
practice in this county was the largest and most successful of any practitioner of 
northern Indiana, aud his practice brought him very valuable returns. He is now 
one of the few remaining original pioneers of Elkhart county, and one of the highly 
honored citizens. 

BETHANi A. Myers. It is a pleasure to give the life story of a man who has 
served his country upon the field of battle, and who has also done his duty as a 
private citizen in the ordinary walks of life. Such a one we find in Mr. Myers, who 
served faithfully in the Rebellion and who is a descendant of good Virginia stock. 
His father, Abraham Myers, was a native of the Old Dominion and of English de- 
scent. He came to Elkhart county. Ind., when a single man, was one of the pioneers 
of this couQty, and here followed the oceupatioa of a farmer and miller. He bought 
eighty acres ou the south line of Clinton township, cleared it, and soon had a good 
home. He first settled here m the thirties and was married to Miss Susan Garnet, 
which union resulted in the birth of seven children. In connection with his farming 
interest Mr. Mvers carried on a grist-mill iu Bentou and Waterford for raanv vears. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAyA. 593 

and v\a3 an industrious, hard-working man. Late in life he moved to the State of 
Washington and died there when seventy-seven years of age. He and wife were 
worthy members of the Baptist Church, and he was a Democrat in politics. He built 
a saw-mill in Clinton township about ISoo and in 1880 built a grist mill at the same 
place, being in partnership with Cephas Hnwks, of Gosh?n, in the latter enterprise. 
He hal three sons in the liebellion: Frank M., in Company K, Thirtieth Regiment 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, served three years and was in nearly all the battles of 
his regiment, escaping without a wound; John D., was in Company .., Seventy- 
Fourth Regiment Volunteer Infantry, served three years and was in all the battles of 
his regiment; Bethana, our subject, was the first to enlist. He was born on his 
fathers farm in Clinton township, Elkhart county, Ind., August 12,1843, and the 
common schools furnished him a fair education. He began for himself as a fire- 
man of stationdry engines. When about nine years of age he left home and began 
working on the farm of his uncle. Since that time he has made his own way in life. 
When nearly eighteen years of age he enlisted in Company B, Twenty-ninth Regi- 
ment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served three years. For nearly two years he 
was in eontina3as battle, participating in the engagements of Nashville and Stone 
River, the latter lasting three days and nights. After this he drove a team most of 
the time until the close of his service. He was never wounded or taken prisoner, 
or in the hospital, and was a faithful soldier. Returning to his home at ilillers- 
burg, after the war, he ca.st his first vote for Abraham Lincoln. He engaged as a 
fireman in saw-mills and later embarked in the butcher's business in MOlersburg, 
meeting with fair success in this undertaking. On the 4th of March. 1865, he 
wedded Miss S. Prichard, daughter of Jesse and Sarah Prichard. One child, 
Ora, was born to this union. In 1890 Mr. Myers engaged in the sawmill business 
with John Langer, under the firm name of Myers & Langer, at Millersburg, and they 
are now doing a good business. They are live, energetic business men and have 
gained for themselves the confidence and patronage of the public at large. In his 
political views Mr. Myers supports the Republican party, and is a prominent member 
of the G. A. R., Randall Post, No. 320. He has held the oflSces of senior vice- 
commander and junior vice-commander for about eight years. By industry and good 
management Mr. Myers has made all his property and is now one of the substantial 
men of his section. He owns a half interest in the saw-mUl which has a capacity 
of 50,000 feet per week, and he also owns a residence in town. Like many of the 
old soldier citizens Mr. Myers stands high in the estimation of all and is one of the 
county's best men. Mrs. Myers is a member of the Reformed Church and is active 
in all good work. 

C. W. SwARTZ, a resident of Nappanee, Ind., was born on his father's farm in 
Stark county, Ohio. June 1, 1837, the sixth of seven children bom to Martin and 
Hannah Swartz, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania January 1(1, 1799, 
his parents being Matthias and Ann Elizabeth Swartz. The Swartz, Schwartz or 
Schwarz family originally came from Germany. Martin was a pioneer farmer of 
Ohio, a calling he followed for fifty years, and was a local minister of the Methodist 
Church, living for many years on a farm near Marlboro, Ohio, but spending his last 
days in that village, where he died in 1878, at the age of nearly eighty years. He 
had accumulate! considerable property in spite of the fact that he was twice burned 
out, the last conflagration occurring in his old age. Martin was married twice, and 
his first wife. Frances, left one daughter of the same name who was born in 1823 
and died in 1857, the wife of Michael Hull. His second wife was the daughter of 
Caleb and Jane Southcard, and the widow of John Butterfield, by whom .she has 
one son, William \K. B. Butterfield. who was bom June 12, 1819, and died in 1857, 
of typhoid fever, leaving four children. Mrs. Hannah Swartz was born in New 
Jersey March 2S. 1797, but removed l)y wagon to Pennsylvania with her parents 
when a child. Nearly her whole life after her second marriage was spent in Stark 
county. Like her husband she was a member of the Methodist Church, and she was 



594 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPUICAL 

a good and amiable woman and a kind and gentle mother. She died March 2, 1880 
near Marlboro, Ohio, on the farm where she had lived for so many years and where 
she spent part of the time with her daughter after the death of her husband, whom 
she survived about a year and a half. Martin and Hannah Swartz had a family of 
four sons and three daughters, all but one of whom grew to maturity: Laviua Ann, 
who was born in 1826, passed away at the age of about sixty N'ears, the widow of 
David Carr, a saw-mill man whom she survived thirty five or forty years: Etna 
Green, lad., was named by Mrs. Carr, as her husband was a large land-owner in 
that neighborhood, at the time the place was founded (Mrs. Carr left two sous: 
Jerome S. and Philonzo D., of whom the elder was a minister of the Methodist 
Church, but died in 1892, leaving a widow and family, and the younger is general 
agent for Baldwin Bros. Piano Company; he is a man of family, and his home is 
in Nashville, Tenu. ); Louisa K. was born in 1S2S, and lives in Logan countj^, Ohio, 
the wife of John Lukeus, a thrifty farmer and the mother of one son, Charles, a 
young physician; Matthias B. O. Plympton was born in 1829, and died from an 
accidental scythe-cut when he was not quite ten years old; John Fletcher was born 
in 1833, and is a well-to-do farmer of Hillsdale coantj^ Mich, (he was married to 
Mahala Hamlin, and has four living children and one son dead, all his living chil- 
dren being married); Harriet Jane was born November 29, 1834, is married to Jacob 
Allspaugh, an energetic and prosperous farmer, and they reside on the old Swartz 
farm which he owns; Charles W. is next in age; Martin Luther W. was born Decem- 
ber 10, 1839. He was a high-spirited young man who became a soldier in the 
Civil war, going with Company F, One Hundred and Fifteenth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry. Near the close of the war he died of pneumonia, as a prisoner of war at 
Meridian, Miss., aged twenty-five years. Charles was reared on his father's farm, 
attended district school and taught a number of terms, then entered Mt. Union Col- 
lege of Mt. Union, Ohio, where he graduated from scientific and classical courses, 
taking in the latter the highest honors of his class. After this he went to the war 
as a member of the Christian commission; he was out twice and has ever since suf- 
fered on account of exposure undergone at that period. About this time he entered 
the ministry of the Methodist Church, bis first regular charge being in West Vir 
ginia. In 1866 he was married to Louisa H. Winder, a daughter of Joseph and 
Amy (Taylor) Winder, who are mentioned in other sketches of this book. Mrs. 
Swartz was born in Ohio in 1839, and although her father died when she was about 
twelve years of age, she not only attended the country schools, but finished her 
education in Mt. Union College. Before and after her college days she taught six- 
teen terms of school, mostly in Indiana and Ohio, the most of which were in the 
rural districts. She taught in the StaufFer and Ulery districts of Union township 
over thirty years ago, and the higher departments of the graded schools of Ottawa 
and Mt. Union, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Swartz were married after the former had 
preached about one year. They lived in West Virginia about three years, then Mr. 
Swartz joined the Central Illinois Conference, and the}' moved to that State, where 
they lived and moved from place to place for about nine years, when they were 
called to Ohio on account of the death of the grandfather, Martin Swartz. Here 
they lived until after Mr. Swartz's mother's death, when they moved to eastern 
Kansas, and Mr. Swartz became a member of the South Kansas Conference. Five 
years were spent in that part of the State, then the family went to southwestern 
Kansas and took a claim in Clark county, where they lived five years, enduring many 
hardships unknown to the younger people of the State of Indiana. In the spring 
of 1890 Mrs. Swartz was called to Nappaoee by the condition of her mother, Amy 
Winder. Here the family has since lived. Rev. Swartz has not taken regular work 
as a minister for the past seven years. For most of that time he has traveled as 
salesman of books. At present he is salesman and general agent for a well-known 
firm of Chicago. He is. and has been for years, a Prohibitionist and an active 
temperance worker. He and his wife have a family of six children: Mary L. was 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIANA. 595 

born December 30, 1868, in Wayue county, W. Va., attended district and village 
schools in Illinois, Ohio and Kansas; at the age of sixteen she beejan to teach 
school and followed this the most of the time until the spring of 1888, when she 
went to the eastern part of the State and attended school two years in Neodesha, 
graduating in the spring of 1890, when she came to Nappanee and has taught school 
one term in Union township since coming here. Luther E., the next child, was born 
in [llinois May 1 1, 1871. He, too, attended school in Illinois, Ohio and Kansas, 
but has acquired most of his education by careful reading at home. He has also 
attended the Nappanee Normal. In western Kansas he worked the farm. He, his 
next younger sister and his brother drove with loaded wagons from western Kansas 
to Nappanee in the fall of 1890, a trip of 1,129 miles by the route they traveled. 
Since then Luther was creamery man for a few months, and in the fall of 1891 began 
teaching school in Locke township, where he is engaged to teach the present year. 
He is a well-posted young man, and is one of Nappanee' s "eligibles" to appoint- 
ment as postal clerk, as he passed a creditable examination in Chicago in the spring 
of 1S92. Kittie A. was born at Sunbeam, 111., August 19, 1873, attended district 
school, has gone parts of two years to the graded schools of Ashland, Kan., and the 
last two years to the Nappanee schools; Hattie S. was born in Illinois July 1, 18(5, 
and died September 27, 1882; Alice G. was born at Summit, 111., July 31, 1878, and 
Charles Ellsworth was born at Edna, Kan., January 11, 1881. The younger chil- 
dren had not much schooling while on the frontier, but have attended school reg- 
ularly since coming to Nappanee. 

Nathan Poolet. Among the honored and substantial business men of Goshen 
who have retired from the active duties of life, is Nathan Pooley. He comes of good 
old English stock, his father. Edward Pooley, having emigrated from Suffolk. Eng- 
land, in 1824, bringing his family with him. His wife's maiden name was 
Mariah Smith, and she was also from Suffolk, England. Six children were born to 
them, as follows: Edward, George, Mariah, Ann, Nathan and Mary. Mr. Pooley 
settled at Marion, N. Y., and died a few years after coming to this country, when 
Nathan our subject, was but eight years of age. The latter was also a native of 
Suffolk, England, born Februarj^ 10, 1822, and was about two years of age when 
his parents brought him to this country. The mother died the year following her 
arrival in this country. Thus at an early age young Pooley was left an orphan. He 
was taken and reared by Oliver Durfee, a Quaker farmer of Palmyra, N. Y. , and 
here young Pooley found a good home and secured a good education, not only at- 
tending the district school, but the high school at Marion. AVhen he reached the 
age of twenty-one years his kind benefactor gave him his note for $400, which he 
afterward paid. This worthy man gave him still more, as he had instilled into the 
mind of his young protege the priucijiles of morality and temperance, and a strong 
love of honesty and truth. He was a kind and affectionate father to the orphan boy, 
whose brothers and sisters were also reared by the same good old Quaker. On Sep- 
tember 25, 1844, Mr. Pooley married Miss Mary J. Bilby, daughter of William 
and Mary (Strape) Bilby, the former being of an old colonial New Jersey family and 
a native of that State. Mrs. Bilby was of German ancestry. Mr. Bilby moved to 
New York State in 1826. and settled at Marion, where he worked at the blacksmith's 
trade the remainder of his days. He was the father of six children, all of whom 
are now living: Jeremiah. John, Joseph, Christopher, Mary J. and Thankful. Mr. 
Bilby lived to the age of seventy-one years, and was a very substantial and wealthy 
man. He and wife were members of the Baptist Church and they were honored 
and esteemed by all. Soon after marriage, in 1844, Mr. and Mrs. Pooley moved to 
Michigan, and settled on eighty acres of land that her father had entered in 1831, 
and resided on this for a time. This land Nathan Pooley redeemed I)y paying 
the taxes, and also bought out the heirs. This Michigan farm was almost in the 
.wilderness, and with the assistance of his most estimable wife, and by much hard 
labor, Mr. Pooley soon had a good home. He planted orchards, erected substantial 



596 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

buildings and made other improvements. After remaining on this farm about ten 
years, or until April, 1855, Mr. Pooley came to Goshen, Ind. He brought his family 
the next fall, and engaged in the boot and shoe business. By thrift and attention 
to business he accumulated considerable property, and coatiuued in this business for 
twenty years. He was successful, built several houses and a commodious brick 
store on Main street which he owns, as well as his residence aiid other real estate; 
seventeen acres of land adjoining West Goshen. Mr. and Mrs. Pooley hold member- 
ship in the Baptist Church, and Mr. Pooley has been church trustee for many years. 
He and wife were among the founders of the Baptist Church in this city, and assisted 
liberally with their means in building the first church of that denomination in 
Goshen, and also the present structure. In politics he is a strong Republican and 
is one of the original Abolitionists, his Quaker benefactor early infusing into his 
mind a hatred of slavery. Fred Douglass delivered his first lecture at Palmyra, N. 
y. , and young Nathan iPooley was among his interested hearers. Before the war 
Mr. Pooley and others assisted slaves from the South through this county by means 
of the underground railroad. Mr. Pooley is one of the honored citizens of Goshen 
and has held a number of local positions, the most prominent being alderman, town- 
ship trustee and supervisor. He has taken an active interest in the cause of educa- 
tion, and was a member of the school board. He has assisted in establishing good 
schools in Goshen, is public-spirited and thoroughgoing. He gave all of his chil- 
dren good educational advantages. William E., supplemented his schooling received 
iu the common schools by attending college at Kalamazoo, and the Commercial 
College at Buffalo, N. Y. The other children were educated in the public schools of 
Goshen. ^Villiam E. who is a farmer of Missouri, married Miss Kate Richmond, of 
Goshen, and they have five children; Emma M. married William M. Davis, a ma- 
chinist, and resident of Topeka, Kas., and they have three children; Charles A. 
married Miss Lydialrviu, a book-keeper in Goshen, and they have one child. Mr. 
Pooley is a strong temperance man and has ever been an honorable, upright citizen. 
During his long career as a business man his integrity has remained without a stain. 
David C. Miller. A worthy history of Elkhart county, Ind., could not be given 
without mentioning the name of Mr. Miller, who, for over forty years, has been a 
prominent resident of this county. During his long term of years here his good 
name has remained untarnished, and he has well and faithfully performed every 
duty, both public and private, that has fallen to his lot. He is a native of the 
Buckeye State, born in Montgomery county, near Dayton, June 8, 1817, and was a 
son of Jacob and Polly (Michel) Miller. Jacob Miller was born in Kentucky about 
1795, and was the sou of David and Abigail (Morgan) Miller, and the grandson of 
Phillip Miller, a native of Maryland, whose parents came from Germany and were 
pioneer settlers of Kentucky. The grandfather of our subject was one of three 
brothers, Daniel, David and Abraham, all of whom lived to be aged men. They 
left the Blue Grass State on account of the slavery question and settled in Mont- 
gomery county, Ohio, where they reared their families. All were members of the 
Dunkard Church. The grandfather of our suliject, David Miller, was married in 
Maryland to Miss Morgan, and these children were born to them: Michael, Jacob 
(father of subject), Lydia, Esther, Katie, Betsy, Susan and Nancy. Only one died 
when young, and he was accidentally shot. The above mentioned children settled in 
Ohio, married, reared families, and there most of them passed the remainder of their 
days. The father died in Montgomery county at an early da_y. The father of our 
subject, Jacob Miller, was a boy of about ten years when his parents moved to Ohio, 
and he there grew to manhood. He married Miss Polly Michel and reared the chil- 
dren who are named as follows: David C Michel, John, Mary, Sallie, Emanuel, 
Henry, Hettie, Susan and Martin. All are now living but Michel and Susan, and 
all married and reared families. Our subject. Susan and Martin moved to Indiana 
and settled in this part of the State. Michel died in Ohio a very wealthy man, and . 
John also became quite wealthy and is now living in Kansas. The father of these 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIA^'A. 599 

children died iu 1861. He was oue of the early pioneers in Ohio, and waa a very- 
popular man. He accumulated a handsome property, all the result of his own exer- 
tions, and liberal in his contributions to all worthy enterprises. Mrs. Miller, his 
wife, was born in Pennsylvania, and was but seven years of age when she came with 
her parents to Ohio. She was the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Mayer) Michel, 
natives of Pennsylvania, who moved to Ohio at a very early day. She was bora in 
1800 and died in 1851. Our subject was reared on a farm and secured a fair educa- 
tion in the district schools. In 1838 he married Miss Rachel Bigler, a native of 
Washington county, Peuo., born May 1, 1817, and the daughter of David and 
Nancy (Graybill) Bigler. Mr. and Mrs. Bigler came from Washington county, 
Penn., to Stark county, Ohio, and died there when aged people. They reared a 
large family of children as follows: Andrew, Rachel, Moses, Daniel, Amos, Julia, 
Nancy, Phcebe, Delila, Lydia, Barbara. Two died young, but most of the others 
are living. To Mr. and Mrs. Miller were born ten children, nine daughters and 
one son, and all but four now living. Nancy married and is now residing with 
her son David, in Kosciusko county; Jacob resides on a farm in this county (see 
sketch), Mary married Daniel Wysong (see sketch), Hannah married Adam 
Miller, of this township (see sketch), Susan died when seven years of age; 
Sarah (deceased) was the wife of Charles Stuart; Julia married Joshua Wysong 
(see sketch), Rachel married Joseph Geyer, of Union township; Lavina married 
Henry Wj'song (see sketch), and Malinda (deceased) was the first wife of Solomon 
Pepple. Mr. Miller has a number of grandchildren. He has resided in this county 
for many years, and hig farm was covered with woods when he first settled on it. 
He has witnessed the growth and development of the country and has contributed 
his share toward its improvement. He has held a number of local offices and has 
ever proved himself a man of good judgment and sound sense. He and his esti- 
mable wife are not enjoying the best of health just at present, but surrounded by 
their children, they are thus rendered happy. Both are members of the Dankard 
Church, and Mr. Miller votes with the Demjcratic party. 

Charles Frank is an intelligent man of affairs, who keeps abreast of the times, 
and is an honored ex-soldier of the Civil War. He is descended from good old 
Pennsylvania stock, and was born in Beaver county, of that State, March 18, 1842, 
a son of Reinhold and Catherine (Roupp) Frank. He received a common-school 
education at first, which he finished in the Academy of Beaver county, Penn. At 
the age of nineteen years, on September 14, 1861, he enlisted from his native State 
in Company B, Seventy-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, with 
which he served on many a hard-fought battlefield for three years. He took an act- 
ive part in the engagements at Cross Keys, Va., Cedar Mountain, Pope's campaign 
in Virginia, Freeman's Ford, White Sulphur Springs, Waterloo Bridge, second bat- 
tle of Bull Run, the two days' battle at Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville and Get- 
tysburg. He was then sent to the Department of the South, and for one year was 
before Charleston and in several severe skirmishes. From that place his regiment 
was sent back to Washington, and he was mustered out of the United States service 
September 14, 1864, receiving honorable discharge. He was an active and efficient 
soldier, and in the best years of his life he did not hesitate to risk his life and face 
rebel bullets on many a hard-fought battlefield. To such men as Mr. Frank the 
nation owes its preservation. During the last year and a half that he gave to his 
country he served on the non-commissioned staff as regimental commissary. After 
the war he came to Mishawaka, Ind., and engaged in the lumber busiuess with 
Frederick Lang, buying out the interests of two of Mr. Lang's partners. Since 
that time he has been engaged in the business, and has conducted his affairs in such 
a manner that his patronage has grown to large proportions and his name come to 
be as higlily regarded as his bond. He is thoroughly posted in matters pertaining 
to his business, and also has exceptionally intelligent views on the general questions 
of the day. He chose for his companion through life Miss May Bnchheit, and to 



600 PICTORIAL AND BIOGIIAI'IIICAL 

their union four children bave been given: George F., J. Norman. Estella M. and 
Grace L. In 1889 Mr. Frank took up his residence in Misbawaka, where be has 
since continued to reside, be and bis family being highly regarded in the social cir- 
cles of the place. He is a member of Houghton Post, No. 128, G. A. B., of Misb- 
awaka; has held all the offices in the same and at the present time is adjutant. He 
is a member of Monitor Lodge, No. 286, I. O. O. F., of Misbawaka, in which honor- 
able order he has filled all the chairs. Politically he has ever been a stanch Re- 
publican. He is a man who is thoroughly respected for bis honorable traits of 
character and sound judgment, and although a Republican held the office of justice 
of the peace for four years in Madison township, which always goes strongly Demo- 
cratic. Like many of the old soldiers, after fighting bis country's battles be settled 
down to business, and became a practical, successful man and a highly resj)eeted 
citizen. John George Frank, his paternal grandfather, was a citizen of Wurtem- 
burg, Germany, in which kingdom bis son Reiubold was born. When seven years 
of age, or in 1806, the latter was brought to America by his father, who was a mem- 
ber of the famous Rappist Colony under George Rapp, and for a time resided in 
Pennsylvania and afterward in Posey county, Ind., on the Wabash River. The 
elder Mr. Frank died soon after coming to America, but his son Reinhold lived with 
the Rappites until he was thirty five years of age, after which he resided for some 
time in Beaver county, Penn. He died in 1872, at the age of seventy three years. 
He was the father of Ernestine M., George F., William A., Charles, Julia D., Au- 
gustus and Edward R. Mr. and Mrs. Frank were members of the Lutheran Cbnrcb, 
and she is yet living at the age of seventy-seven years. The maternal grandfather 
of Charles Frank was John George Roupp, who was born in the grand duchy of 
Baden, Germany, and served as a soldier in the Baden contingent under the great 
Napoleon. He married and became the father of two children: Catherine and 
Madelina, the former becoming the wife of Reinhold Frank. Mr. Roupp came with 
his family to America in 1832, and settled in Beaver county, Penn., where he died 
at the patriarchal age of eighty-nine years. He became a substantial man of affairs, 
and was for many years identified with the Dunkard Church. 

O. N. LuMBEET, who has justly earned the reputation of being one of the most 
enterprising and progressive men of Elkhart during bis ten years' residence in the 
city, is deserving of no inconsiderable credit for the success he has thus far made of 
life, particularly so when this result has been attained unaided and entirely through 
his own efforts. He is a native of Ingham county, Mich., his birth occurring in 
March, 1849. His father, Orrin Lumber!, was a farmer in very limited circum- 
stances and his death, when our subject was only about one year old, left the widow, 
formerly Betsy Reynolds, and only child in destitute circumstances. Mrs. Lum- 
bert remarried, but in 185-1 died, leaving her child, at five years of age, to the mer- 
ciless task of fighting his own way in the world. Young Lurabert's early career was 
not altogether an experience of happiness and contentment. Poverty was one of the 
chief drawbacks, for being too }'oung to earn bis own livelihood, he necessarily bad 
to put up with such necessities as bis relatives could afford to contribute, which 
were very meager indeed. At the age of fifteen a change for the better came to him — 
not in the way of a cessation from bard labor and privations, Inrt in helping formu- 
late habits for the better which previously had no restraint or guiding band. It 
was at this age, when lads are usually accustomed to the tender care of a mother 
and the ennoliling influences of home, that his youthful ardor led him to enlist under 
the stars and stripes for the preservation of the Union. The discipline of army life 
benefited him, not only in his soldier life, but in after years when manhood had 
fully come to him. For nearly two years ho was under the command of that great mili- 
tary leader. General Sherman, participating in his campaign to the sea, through the 
Carolinas, and in the Grand Review at Washington. Returning to civil lite, be 
followed farming summers and attended schools winters for a number of years, 
and later engaged in the painter's trade. Acquiring in this way a good, practical 



MEMOIRS OF INDIAXA. 601 

education, be married Miss Athelia R. Earl, in 1878. and the succeeding year be- 
gan "keeping bouse"' in Eaton county, Mich. In 1880 be entered the employ of an 
insurance company located at Detroit, and from the ver_y beginning displayed 
marked ability' for this line of business. He later accepted the position of superin- 
tendent of agencies for another Michigan company, and was thus employed until 
1883. Iq February, 1883, he organized the People's Mutual Benefit Society, of 
Elkhart, Ind. , and from that time to the present has been an officer, director and 
an active worker for this company', of which he is now secretary. Unque.stionably 
the People's Mutual Benefit Sjciety owes much of its prosperity to the marked 
business sagacity of Mr. Lumbert. Aside from bis success in business, Mr. Lum- 
bert has been active in the promotion of bis adopted city's best interests; is con- 
nected with various public enterprises and socially is a Knight Templar and Thirty- 
second degree Mason. He is a Republican in politics, a ''hail fellow, well met," 
and the father of one child — Ollie E. 

Samuel Rensberger. Among the sons of Pennsylvania who have brought with 
them to this western land the sturdy habits of independence, integrity and industry 
which have ever marked the natives of the Keystone State, it is a gratification to be 
able to name Mr. Rensberger, whose beautiful and well-tilled farm of 141 acres in 
Elkhart township, and eighty-eight acres in Clinton township, show bim to be a 
man of thrift and enterprise. His father, Jacob Rensberger, was born in Somerset 
county, Penn., and was a son of George Rensberger. The familj' originally came 
from Germany to this country at an early date, and first settled iu Maryland, but 
afterward changed their location to Pennsylvania, where George Rensberger at- 
tained manhood and married and became the father of the following children: John, 
Jacob, Adam, Jonas, Catherine, Eva, Susan and Lydia. The father of these chil- 
dren lived until the snows of eighty winters had passed over his bead, paying the last 
debt of nature in Fayette county, Penn., at the residence of bis son John. During 
the latter part of bis life be became a member of the Dunkard Church, having 
throughout life h)een a successful farmer and a respected citizen. His son, Jacob S., 
was bom April 1, 1807; received a limited common education; was brought up as a 
farmer and was married in Somerset county, Penn., to Fannie, daughter of Daniel 

and (Mast) Hocbstetter, and to them a family of eleven children was born: 

Caroline, Eliza, Josiah, Samuel, John, Jacob, Jonas, Edward, William, Susannah, 
and Lewis. After his marriage, Mr. Jacob Rensberger settled in Somerset county, 
but iu a short time moved to Fayette county, and after a time returned to Somerset 
county. In 1832 he became a resident of Holmes county, Ohio, where he entered 
and settled on a tract of wild laud, a portion of which farm be cleared, aud in the 
spring of 18-17 he came to Indiana and settled two miles east of Goshen, where he 
bought 120 acres, and became well known as an industrious and honorable citizen. 
Samuel Rensberger, his son, came to Elkhart county, Ind. , at the age of sixteen years, 
and about May 10, 1847, settled on the farm now owned by Samuel Rensberger, his 
son. He was boru in Elk Creek township, Somerset Co., Penn., June 15, 1831, his 
advantages being such as the common schools afforded. He remained with and 
assisted his father ou the home farm in Indiana for about three years, then worked 
for various farmers iu Jefferson, Elkhart and Clinton townships for some four years, 
and on March 30. 1854, won for his wife Martha, daughter of Beltser Hess (see 
sketch of Israel Hess), and on November 2. following the celel)ration of their nup- 
tials, be moved onto 102 acres of the old homestead which he had purchased, and 
here his career as a married man began. He greatly increased his acreage and has 
given seven of his children $1,000 each. His children are as follows: Josephine S., 
Alpbeus D., Albert A., William W., Hiram, Melviu M., Cephas, Cbloe F., Mary A. 
(who died at the age of sixteen years), and Grace P. Mr. and Mrs. Rensberger are 
members of the German Baptist Church, and be is actively interested in the prog- 
ress of bis section, iu which be has held a number of local offices. All bis chil- 
dren have been well educated, and his son, Melvin, has been a successful school 



603 PICTORIAL AU'D BIOGUAPniCAL 

teacher of his county for three years. Mr. Reusberger has always beeu industrious, 
pushing and thrifty, and it is not to be wondered at that he has made a succes of 
his affairs. He is liberal in the use of his means in the support of enterprises ,hat 
recommend themselves to his excellent judgment, and in every sense of the wo d is 
an acquisition to the community in which he has so long made his home. 

Frederick Lang, Mishawaka, lud. In a town of any size or importance the 
lumber business is a very essential one, and those who are engaged in it receive an 
ample return for the money invested. Mr. Lang is one who has given this line of 
business his attention, and in its conduct he has met with more than an ordinary degree 
of success and thoroughly undersands its most minute details, which is without 
doubt a secret of his prosperity, together with the fact that he is always found at 
his post. He was born in the Kingdom of Wurtemburg, Germany, May 9, 1834, 
where, like all German youths, he received a good common-school education, which 
was supplemented afterward by a two years' course in a Latin school. At the age of 
sixteen years he left home to make his own way in the world and celebrated his six- 
teenth birthday on the Atlantic ocean while on his way to America. After reaching this 
country he resided for three years in Pittsburg, Penn. , during which time he worked 
in a wholesale grocery store, then came to Mishawaka, Ind. His father, Frederick 
Lang, came to this country with his family, which consisted of his wife (Barbara 
Nnmmer, his second wife) and two children, Fredericka and Christina, and an 
adopted son. He settled in Penn township, St. Joseph Co., Ind., five miles 
south of Mishawaka on a partly cleared farm of 160 acres, which he finished clear- 
ing and improving and on which he resided until his death in 1873. He was con- 
sidered a substantial citizen, and after coming to this country supported the princi- 
ples of the Republican party. Upon coming to this county, Frederick Lang, the 
subject of this sketch, took up his residence with his father, whom he assisted in the 
numerous and laborious duties of the farm for ten years. In 1857 Miss Ernestine M. 
Frank became his wife and to them the following children were given: Emma, who 
died a married woman; Otto E. ; Minnie J. and Otilla J. In 1864 Mr. Lang, 
Charles Kelley and others formed a company and engaged in the manufacture of 
hardwood lumber and wagon stufP, building a saw-mill in Madison township, which 
they conducted in a successful manner, financially, until 1889. These enterprising 
gentlemen, in 1867, opened a lumber yard in Mishawaka and the following year Mr. 
Lang removed to the town and has had charge of the same ever since and has con- 
ducted it in a highly successful and satisfactory manner ever since. He has always 
supported the men and measures of the Kepublicau party and in 1880 the citizens of the 
county showed their appreciation of his merits by electing him to the responsible 
position of county treasurer, which office he tilled with marked ability until 1884. 
From 1876 to 1880 he held the office of township trustee, the duties of which he 
also discharged in a remarkably successful manner. He has been a member of the 
tovfn council of Mishawaka for two years. Socially he is a member of the I. O. O. 
F., Mishawaka Lodge, No. 286. He is one of the substantial men of the county and 
is the owner of a good farm and some valuable real estate in Mishawaka, Ind. He 
stands deserved!}' high as a man of integrity of character and probity and in the bus- 
iness affairs of life has shown himself to be prudent, far-seeing and practical. His 
son, Otto E., is a hardware merchant in partnership with Henry Eglestou. 

D.\NiEL E. PippENGER is the eldest child of one of the earliest pioneers of Elkhart 
county, being a son of John and Mary (Gripe) Pippenger, the former of whom was 
a son of John Pippenger and his wife, Rebecca, who came from Holland in early 
times and settled in Pennsylvania. In that State, John Pippenger, the father of the 
subject of this sketch was born about March 10, 1798. being one of a good old- 
fashioned family of sixteen children, twelve sons and four daughters, all of whom 
lived to be grown, married and reared families of their own. One of this family is 
still living, Eli, who resides in Marshall county, Ind., on a farm and who is quite 
at'ed. Rebecca Pippenger died in Pennsylvania, but her husband passed from life 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 603 

in Ohio, being one of the early settlers of Montgomery county. Mary Cripe was 
born in Pennsylvania, January 8, 1797, was one of eight children, but died soon 
after locating in Elkhart county, though her husband lived to be quite an old man. 
She was a daughter of Daniel Cripe, one of the early pioneers of the county, who, with 
his wife, was probably from Pennsylvania. They came to this region from Ohio in 
the spring of IS'29 and settled on Elkhart Prairie. Notice of this family is given 
elsewhere. John Pippenger and Mary Cripe were married some time be- 
fore coming to this county; their union is supposed to have taken place June 
17, 1821. During their married life ten children were born to them: Daniel 

E., who was born July 17, 1822; A , born September, 26, 1823, reared a family 

in this county but is now residing in Marshall county; Elizabeth, was born July 4, 
1825, married William Keck, reared a family and died in Wisconsin; John, who was 
born July 23, 1827, is residing in Wisconsin; Magdalene, born January 24, 1829, mar- 
ried Joseph Keek, died in Wisconsin and left a family ; Susan, born March 5, 1831, died 
March 31, 1831; Christian, born June 5, 1832, died September 29, 1833; Mary, born May 
30, 183-1:, is married to Peter Stull, of Kosciusko county, Ind. ; Catherine, born June 
11, 1836, married Manuel Laudes and is living in Kosciusko county; Rebecca, born 
March 15, 1838, is now the widow of L. Cripe, has a grown-up family and is resid- 
ing in Union township, and Joseph who was born December 12, 1839, is a farmer of 
that township also. The parents of these children first settled on Elkhart Prairie 
and took up eighty acres of land, which was later traded for 160 acres where the sub- 
ject of this sketch is now residing, and on which he cut the first timber. At the 
time of making the settlement here there were only five families in the county and 
the township had only seven voters. The father was a member of the German 
Baptist Cburch, took an active part in politics and always supported the Democratic 
party. He died on his farm, where so many years of his life were spent, having 
come to this region with an ox team, the journey from Ohio occupying seven weeks. 
They settled on the unbroken prairie, made their own clothing, lived on corn bread, 
and like all the inhabitants of a new country, had to undergo numerous privations 
and hardships. They were industrious and in time became well to do, becoming 
the owners of a tine tract of land comprising 440 acres in Union townshiis, which 
gave their children a good start in life. They reared their children to honorable 
manhood and womanhood and only two survive them at this writing: Daniel E., 
grew up and married Elizabeth Stouder and a familj' of seven children has been 
born to them, three of whom died when young — John, Susan and Emanuel; Mary 
died at the age of twenty-three years, and Levi when nineteen years of age; 

C , is living in Jackson township and is tilling the soil; Samuel is a farmer 

and thresher of Union township; Jacob D. ; and Catherine is Mrs. P. Swartz, the 
wife of the es-saperintendent of the schools of Elkhart county; Isaac, is a teacher of 
the county. Daniel E. Pippenger and his wife are among the first people of the 
county and have numei'ous friends. 

John Harper. The growth and prosperity of Elkhart county, Ind. , has been 
upon a scale commensurate with the immigration to this region in past years, and 
this prosperity is largely due to the members of the agricultural profession, promi- 
nent among which stands the name of Mr. John Harper. He is a descendant of 
sturdy German stock, and inherits all his thrift and perseverance from those 
ancestors. His grandfather, Philip Har]ier, was born in the grand old State of Vir- 
ginia, married a lady of Iri.sh descent and settled in Ross county, Ohio, were he was 
one of the early settlers . He was killed by a ntnaway team when absent from 
home. His children, six in number, were named as follows : Solomon, Gideon, 
Susan, Phoebe, Eva and Mary. The third eldest child, Solomon, the father of our 
subject, was born in Ro.^s county, Ohio, in 1809. He received no education on 
account of the scarcity of schools, but being possessed of a naturally bright, active 
mind was classed among the intelligent and well-posted men of the county. He 
was particularly good in mathematics, and could figure rapidly and accurately. His 



604 PIOrORlAL AND nwaUAl'lIICAL 

marriage to Miss Mary Shobe, dangbter of Jacob and Sarah (Carr) Shobe, occurred 
in Ross county, Obio, and eleven children were born to this union, as follows: 
Emily, John, Sarah, Silas, Philip, Huldah. Margaret, Zachariah, Hiirriet, Elizabeth 
and Gideon. After the birth of his two eldest children, Mr. Harper moved with his 
family to Noble county, Ind., and settled on wild land. He first entered forty acres 
in the woods, cleared this of the brush and timl)er with which it was covered, and 
added from time to time to the original tract until he owned 480 acres, half of which 
he probably entered. The land, being rich and productive, yielded big returns for 
the work put upon it, and Mr. Harper became one of the foremost agriculturists of 
his section. He died at the age of sixty-three years, leaving a large estate to bis 
children. A stanch Democrat in bis political views, he was well and favorably 
known throughout the county, and was respected by all as a man of great resolution 
and energy. All his property was made by the honest sweat of his brow, and he 
reared his children to be honorable men and women, a credit to any community. 
John Harper, the original of this notice, was born on his father's farm in Ross 
county, Ohio, August 9, 1831, and was brought to Noble county, Ind., when an 
infant; in fact, the following November. The pioneer schools of those days furnished 
him a fair education, and subsequently be attended college at Fort Wayne two 
terms, also the high school at Goshen three terms. He was brought up to the life 
of a farmer by his father, and, like the majority of boys, has followed in his ances- 
tor's footsteps, and is now classed among the most prominent and successful agri- 
culturists of his section. On June 13, 1801, he married Miss Elizabeth A. Milner, 
daughter of John and Rinah (Arminson) Milner, and the following children were 
born to them: Rosilla M., Edward M., Albert S., Luella, Mary and Maggie B. 
The June following bis marriage Mr. Harper moved to bis present farm, then con- 
sisting of eighty acres, and although there had been but little of this cleared, he 
went to work and by much indu.stry and thrift became the owner of 240 acres. He 
has all this well improved, has erected a good brick house and a commodious barn. 
He and Mrs. Harper are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
he has been steward in the same. Formerly an old line Whig in politics his first 
vote was cast for Gen. Scott, and at the same election his father voted for Franklin 
Pierce. After the formation of the Republican party he joined its ranks, but has 
strong prohibition proclivities. His children have all received good educational 
advantages and are intelligent and progressive. His daughter Rosilla graduated in 
the teachers' course in the normal at Valparaiso, and has taught several terras very 
successfully. Edward attended the same school, also at P'ort Wayne. Mary was 
educated in music at Valparaiso, and has taught music in this county. Maggie 
graduated in the scientific course at Valparaiso, is well educated, and competent to 
teach in the public schools. Rosilla married Milton Lint, who was educated at Val- 
paraiso, Ind., and who is a civil engineer. One child has been born to them, Henry 
C. , and they are at present living in Kansas. Mr. Harper is a man of great deter- 
mination, is self-made, and in bis vocabulary there is no such word as fail. 
John Milner. the father of Mrs. Harper, was born in Yorkshire. England, and was 
the sou of William Milner. He came from England with bis family in 1830, and 
settled on wild land in Cuyahoga county, Obio, the following year. In 1854 he 
moved to Elkhart county, Ind., settled in Benton township, and there passed the 
remainder of his days, dying in 1876, when seventy-two years of age. He and Mrs. 
Milner were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and were people of high 
moral character. Mr. Milner was a strong abolitionist and a strong temperance 
man. An old line Whig in politics at first, he later became connected with the 
Republican party. The children by his first wife were as follows: Edward M. 
(born in England), William, Elizabeth, Rinah, Hannah and Rosa, the last five born 
in this country. The first wife died in 1855, when fifty-six j^ears of age, and Mr. 
Milner's second marriage was with Mrs. Mary Malone, who bore bini four children, 
viz.: Alice, Lincoln, Melissa and Ella. Mr. Milner was a successful farmer, and 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 605 

was the owner of 100 acres of laud. He was an intelligent, well-informed man, 
although he gained his education by his own efforts. Upright and honorable, he 
taught his children that to do right was the proper course to pursue, and they grew 
up loyal, honorable citizens. Mrs. Harper was born August 28, 1836, in Cuyahoga 
county, Ohio, and supplemented a good common-school education by attending 
Shaw's Academy and the Western Reserve Seminary. When sixteen years of age 
she became a teacher and followed this for nine years, teaching ten terms. She 
belonged to a family of teachers, eight of her brothers and sisters having taught 
school. She is a lady of high character and is well informed, having clear and 
practical views on all subjects of importance. 

David D. Kodibaugh is the eldest of a family of children reared by David and 
Rebecca (Barringer) Rodibaugh. The subject of this sketch was born on the old 
home farm where his father is now residing April 11, 1856, and in the schools in the 
vicinity of his home he received a good education, which has been strengthened and 
broadened by contact with the world and the business affairs of life. He remained on 
the home farm assisting his father until he was twenty-two years of age, when he 
started out to fight life's battles for himself and began operating a grist-mill at 
Baintertown on his own responsibility, whichhe conducted with success until 1888. 
This was the first roller-mill started in the part of the county in which Mr. 
Rodibaugh lives, but in 1888 he sold it to Thomas Clayton, and since that time has 
devoted his attention to farming and is the owner of a fine farm, located on the edge 
of New Paris, containing 180 acres of well-improved land, which is now considered 
quite valuable; also has a fine farm of 160 acres near Milford, in Koscixasko county. 
He makes his home in the town of New Paris, where he has a handsome and com- 
fortable residence, where he and his wife dispense a refined and generous hospi- 
tality to their numerous friends. He is well posted on the current topics of the day, 
and has always cast his vote on the side of Democracy. October 11, 1881, he was 
married to Miss Mary Wean, who was born in New Paris, November, 19, 1862, a 
daughter of John and Margaret (Leonard) Wean, the latter being still a resident 
of New Paris. The Wean family came from Ohio at a very early daj' and settled in 
New Paris, Elkhart county. The father was a carpenter by trade, and during 
the Civil war while serving his countrj' in the army, he was wounded in the battle 
of Jonesboro, Ga., and died of his wounds the same night. He was a native of Stark 
county, Ohio, and his wife of Portagre county of that State. After the celebration 
of their nuptials, they came to Indiana, and became the parents of two children: 
Howard L., who is living in Goshen, Iml., and Mary (Mrs. Rodibaugh). Mr. and 
Mrs.' Rodibaugh are the parents of four children: Hugh H. , who was born Septem- 
ber 19, 1883; Charles C, who was born January 25, 1885; Hazel, born July 9, 1889, 
and an infant that was born August 3, 1892. Both Mr. and Mrs. Rodibaugh spring 
from substantial pioneer stock. 

William Warren Johnson, M. D. The history of this family of Johnsons in 
America began with Elkanah Johnson, who came with the Regicides to New England 
during its early colonization. A descendant of Elkanah named Edmund and the 
great-grandfather of our subject was a native of East Greenwich, R. I. He 
served as captain in Col. Varnum's Rhode Island troops through the Revo- 
lutionary war, and at its close moved to Saratoga county, N. Y , where he 
reared a large family and followed blacksmitliing. He died in or about 1812, and was 
buried at Stillwater, Saratoga county. This family and its descendants resided in 
New York for many years. Potter, a son of Edmund, was a soldier of the War of 
1812 and the father of a family of ten children, one of whom, Dr. William Johnson, 
was the father of William Warren Johnson, M. D., of Goshen. He was a native of 
Saratoga county, where he was reared and resided. He received his medical educa- 
tion at Fairfield Herkimer county, N. Y., and located at Valley Falls in his native 
State, where he followed his profession until his death, which occurred in 1876. In 
bis early manhood he was united in marriage with Miss Clarissa Slocum, by whom 



606 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL 

he had one child, now deceased. His wife dying, he afterward married Miss Mary 
Jeanette Godfrey, a native of Vermont, and to them were born William Warren 
and his sister Katie L. Dr. William Johnson was a man well posted in his pro- 
fession and things in general, and was noted for his exemplarj' habits and conserv- 
atism in all things. He and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. In iSsl the mother and family moved to Ann Arbor, Mich., where she now 
resides with her daughter, who has, since their coming tbere, graduated from that fa- 
mous western university. Our subject was born December 16. 1860, in the town of 
Talley Falls, Rensselaer Co., N. Y., his education up to the time of his father's 
death being such as could be obtained in the public schools of his native town. In 
1877 he entered Troy Conference Academy at Poultney, Vt., where he took a two 
years' commercial course. He then attended for three years the Wesley Academy 
at Wilbraham. Mass. He came with the family to Ann Arbor, Mich., in ISSl, and 
soon after entered the medical department of the State university, and three years 
later graduated from that institution as M. D. Soon after graduating he came to 
Goshen, Ind., and followed his profession exclusively for about two years, but then 
in a measure, gave up bis profession and embarked in the drug trade, which he has 
since continued with a steadily increasing patronage and success. He now has a 
well-appointed establishment and is doing a prosperous business. He was united 
in marriage with Miss Mary J. Middleton, May 12, 1SS6. This lady is a native of 
Granville, N. Y. , and to them one child has been born: Wilma A. Since coming to 
Goshen Dr. Johnson has become well and favorably known to its people. He bas 
by appointment and election served the people of Elkhart county as their coroner, 
was re-elected and is now serving the third term. He is an ardent Kepublican, a 
congenial companion and a public-spirited, useful and progressive citizen. 

Joseph H. Heatwole, M. D. The ancestral history of the Heatwole (originally 
spelled Htitwohl) family in America dates from September 15, 17-tS, upon which 
date there landed in Philadelphia, Matthias Htitwohl, who, with ninety- six other 
German emigrants, sailed from Rotterdam, Holland, in the ship "Two Brothers," 
of which Thomas Arnot was master. Matthias Htitwohl, according to scraps of 
evidence extant, was born in Eheinish Bavaria, and of his parentage nothing is 
known, but tradition says that he and his parents were Lutheran in religious be- 
lief. Like most of the German emigrants of his time, he settled in Pennsylvania, 
and in the course of time married Miss Haas, sister of Christian Haas, who subse- 
quently settled near Turleytown, Rockingham Co., Ya., in which place he died when 
more than one hundred years of age. Matthias Htitwohl, by his marriage to Miss 
Haas, became the father of six children, whose names were respectively: David, 
Jacob, John. Christian, Mary and Anna. These children were left fatherless by 
the sudden death of their parent, which was caused by over physical exertion. The 
widowed mother, being without means, found it necessary to place her children 
among strangers. David, whose posterity has become so numerous in Virginia, was 
brought up by a family named Momaw. Jacob, after his marriage, settled near 
Charleston, now West Virginia, where he died, leaving few to bear his name: John 
married in Pennsylvania, and became the father of two children. Christian died 
single at Alexandria, Va., having been a shoemaker by trade; Anna married 
Samuel Weaver, from whom have descended the Weavers of Rockingham county, 
Va., and MaiT married Peter Bowman, who settled near Dale Enterprise. Va . and 
to whom the following named children were born: John, Peter, Jacob, Martin. Samuel, 
Susan, Mary and Elizabeth. Mrs. Bowman, wife of Peter, was born in Lan- 
caster county, Penn.. December 18, 1766, and died in 1833. David Htitwohl (who 
afterward spelled his name Heatwole, which spelling the family has since retained), 
son of Matthias, was born in 1767. As before stated, he was bound out, and un- 
fortunutely fell into the hands of a cruel task-master, by whom he was maltreated, 
and the scars from the I'eatiugs he received he carried to his grave. Subseqtiently 
he ran away and joined himself to a man named Momaw, and when eighteen 



MEMOIRfi OF INDIAXA. 607 

years old went to reside with his uncle, Christian Haas, by whom he was taught 
the trade of shoemaking. He married Magdalene Weland, whose parents had 
settled in the wilds of northern Pennsylvania, and were twice driven from their 
home by the Indians, and in a conflict that occurred, one of the sons was killed 
and another wounded. Several years subsequent to David Heatwole's marriage 
(in 1794) he moved to Rockingham county, Virginia, in which he bought eighty- 
five acres of land. He became the father of eleven children: Gabriel, born October 
26, 1789; Frances, boru December 19, 1790; Elizabeth, bom September 7, 1792; 
Christian, born June 7, 1795; David, born September 15, 1797; Abraham, bom 
September 23, 1799; Magdalene, born March 15, 1802, and died at the age of 
three years; Samuel, boru March 3, 180-4; John, born April 6, 1806; Anna, bom 
June 4, 1808, and Henry, born March 9, 1813. The father of these children was 
a plain, unassuming man, and a firm Ijeliever in and a strong advocate of the non- 
resistant doctrine as taught by Simon Menno. He was on elder in the Mennonite 
Church, to which he was ardently devoted. He died April 8, 1842, and his wife 
departed this life November 23, 1840, in her seventy-fifth year. Gabriel, the 
eldest, married Margaret Swank, and settled near Mole Hill, Eockingham Co., Va., 
where he followed the trade of cooper. To him and his wife eight sons and four 
daughters were born, all of whom married and lived near the old homestead on 
which their father died June 18, 1875, his wife's death occurring six or seven years 
previous. Frances, the second child of David and Magdalene Heatwole, married 
Michael Hildebrand, and bore him eight sons and two daughters; Elizabeth, the 
third child, married Henry Shank, by whom she had five sons and seven daughters 
(she died January 3, 1836); Christian, the fourth child, married Barbara Emswiler, 
who bore him two sons and one daughter (his death occurred August 31, 1853); 
David, the fifth child, married Susanna Helbert (first wife), by whom he had five 
children, and his second wife, Eliza Garrison, Ixire him eight children (he died 
June 5, 1867); Abraham, the sixth child, married Margaret Showalter, who bore him 
four children; Samuel, the eighth in order of birth, married Elizabeth Shank, by 
whom be became the father of six son.s and four daughters (he died November 22, 
1858); John S. , the ninth, married Nancy Swank, sister of Gabriel's wife, and 
their union resulted in the birth of four sons and nix daughters (he died October 
80, 1857); Anna, the tenth child, married Daniel Suter, and became the mother of 
three sons and two daughters (she died March 12, 1835, at the age of twenty- 
seven years); Henry, the youngest of this family, and the father of Dr. Joseph H. 
Heatwole, remained with his parents until he became of age. soon after which he left 
the scenes of his childhood and went to Ohio. In Columbiana county, of that State, 
he married Barbara, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Culp, she being a native of 
Mahoning county, of that State. While there he took up the study of medicine, 
and subsequently entered upon the practice of his profession, first in his adopted 
State.and afterward, about 1851, in Lawrence county, Penn. Upon his removal to 
Indiana, he settled at Waterford. Elkhart Co. (in May, 1853), and in 1876 took 
up his residence in Goshen, in both of which places he successfully practiced his 
profession and acquired a high standing. His was a life of marked activity and 
indomitable perseverance. His disadvantages were many, yet they deterred not his 
progressive spirit. He rose above the obstacles encountered, and relinquished no 
purpose until fully gained. In whatever light his character is viewed, there appears 
a loftiness of spirit that approaches the ideal in man. In his youth his soul re- 
volted at the in.stitution of slavery, and hating it, he fled to free soil to escape the 
pains its hideous practice inflicted on his sensitive and noble nature. While many 
of his kinsmen during the Civil war took up arms against the Government, he re- 
mained true in his allegiance to his country, and the courage of his convictions never 
failed him when trial came. He imbil)ed from his ancestors the belief in the Men- 
nonite doctrine of religious belief, to the tenets of which faith he adhered through 
life. Devoid of a literary education himself, he realized how essential it was to the 



COS rrCTOlUAL ASD biooraphical 

welfare of bis childi-en, upon whom he lavished every means within his power to 
fortify and equip them, that they might more easily surmount the obstructive ele- 
ments of life. His own way in life was over difficulties which he wished his chil- 
dren to pass with the ease and power born of knowledge. Those that bear his name 
inherit in a large degree the characteristics and natiu'al forces of their revered sire, 
upon whom they reflect in no uncertain light. His union with Barbara Culp re- 
sulted in the birth of twelve children: Susanna, deceased; Elizabeth, who married 
Frank AVissinger; Matilda, deceased; Catherine, who married Uriah Anderson; Mary, 
deceased; Eebecca, who married Levi Croop; Joseph H. ; Henry, deceased; Joel; 
Prescott; Emma, who married Dr. William H. Nussbaum, and Ellen, deceased. 
Dr. Henry Heatwole departed this life April 1-t, 188S, and his venerable widow 
survives him at this writing. Dr. Joseph H. Heatwole was born in Lawrence 
county, Penn., April 6, 1853, and was one month old when his parents settled in 
Elkhart county. His primary education was obtained in the village school in 
Waterford, and at the age of sixteen he entered the Goshen High School, in 
which he fitted himself for college. Entering Mount Union College, Ohio, for 
two years he diligently devoted himself to study, qualitied himself to teach, and 
thus defrayed the expenses incurred in obtaining both a literary and medical 
education. He matriculated at the Ohio Medical College, of Cincinnati, in 1876, 
from which institution he graduated in 1878, after which he immediately began to 
practice his profession at Middlebury. lud. In 1883 he located in Goshen, where 
he has acquired a large and lucrative practice, and which has the merit of steady 
increase. He has held otficial positions of honor and trust, among them that of 
health officer of Elkhart county for six years. He is also a member of the board of 
pension examiners. He is progressive in his profession, is a close student, keep- 
ing himself well up in the medical literature of the day. In manner he is agreeable, 
affable and courteous; is an interesting and instructive talker, and altogether nat- 
ure has effected in him a combination of qualities which make of him one of the 
most congenial and companionable of men. His marriage was consummated 
March 20, 1879, with Miss Ella R., daughter of Rev. O. Y. Lemon, a well-known 
Methodist divine, and has borne him three children: Infant son, deceased, born 
February 15, 1880; Irmyn M., born July 26, 188-t, and died October 0. 1891, and 
Louise, born October 19, 1889. In politics the Doctor is an active Republican, and 
takes much interest in municipal. State and national affairs. 

Joel P. Heatwole, brother of the Doctor, was born in the village of Waterford 
Ind., August 22, 1856. He attended the village school and worked at different 
callings during his youth. The early age of nineteen years found him the principal 
of the schools of Millersburg, Ind., and being inclined to newspaper woik he estab- 
lished the Millersburg Enterprise in 1876 while teaching there. In 1878 he resigned 
his position as teacher and established the Middlebury Record, which he conducted 
until he sold out in 1881, in the fall of which year he purchased an interest in the 
Goshen Times, but disposed of it the following February. He was secretary of the 
Northern Indiana Editorial Association four years. In the summer of 1882 he 
went to Minnesota and purchased a half interest intheGlencoe Enterprise, which he 
edited until the next July, when he moved to Duluth and did editorial work on the 
Lake Superior News. In November, 1883, he returned to Glencoe and assumed 
charge of the Enterprise until April of 1884, when he jmrchasedthe Northfield Neics. 
About a year later he became the proprietor of the Northfield Journal and consoli- 
dated it with the Xeics, which he has conducted ever siuce. In 1886 he was elected 
first vice-president of the Minnesota Editors' & Publishers' Association, and in 1887 
was elected president of the same, and re-elected in 1888. Besides his journalistic 
work, Mr. Heatwole has taken an active part in local aud State politics. He was a 
member of the Republican State Central Committee in 1886 and was elected secre- 
tary of that bod}' and was also a member of the executive committee. He was 
unanimously elected delegate at large to the National Republican Convention held 



MEMOIRS OF lyDIASA. 609 

in Chicago in 1888 by the Eepnblicans of Minnesota. In July, 1800, Mr. Heatwole 
was appointed chairman of the Republican State Central Committee, a position 
he now holds. December 2(.), 1891, he was appointed by Gov. Merriam a member 
of the board of regents of the University of Minnesota. Although a comparatively 
young man, his career has been a continual march onward and upward, growing 
daily more popular with all who knew him. He is prominently mentioned as the 
Republican candidate for governor of his adopted State, and his prospects for future 
greatness and usefaluess are very llattering. He was married in London, England, to 
Mrs. Gertrude Archibald, of Faribault, Minn., a lady of great social and moral 
worth. 

JoHS B. Stoll was boru March 13, 1843, in the Black Forest region of Wurtem- 
berg. His father, Bernard Stoll, was an extensive landholder and a man noted for 
unusual physical strength and genial social qualities. In the fall of 1842, before 
John B. was bom, the father, while watering his horses in the river Murg, was 
drowned. A second marriage of his mother resulted in the dissipation of the 
greater part of the estate left by bis father, and a removal of the family to another 
part of Wnrtemberg. The boy. being an only son, and a favorite with his grand- 
parents, was kept at the latter's residence, chiefly under his grandmother's influ- 
ence. At the age of six he commenced going to school, a distance of something 
over three miles. It is said of him that he never missed a day's attendance nor a 
single lesson. About the only spending money he had was that obtained from some 
of his ambitions but, educationally, less successful schoolmates, who would, on 
special occasions, arrange (o have him yield his rank in the class to them, the stand- 
ing in scholarship determining the class location of the pupil in those days. He was 
usually from two to threeyears ahead of his class, and on competitive examinations in- 
variably stood lirst. As is usual with strong natures, the boy was naturally religious; 
and when his young mind was particularly Ijurdened with difficult lessons, the study 
of which was largely made while on his way to school, he often knelt at the way- 
side, turning his soul to God and earnestly praying for help from the Almighty. 
Like the father, his boyhood days developed a remarkable physical strength. It is 
said that while going to school, he never took advantage of his muscle in boyish com- 
bats, and never allowed himself to enter a contest unless his opponent was at least 
three years his senior. In such tests of muscular strength John usually came off 
with flying colors. At ten years of age he emigrated with his mother, a woman of 
courage and sterling worth, to America. Locating, they found a new home in Har- 
risburg, Penn. In two years sickness, aggravated l^y cares and too much responsi- 
bility, came, and the boy was left an orphan. Already that most thorough but 
sternest of all teachers, experience, was teaching self-reliance. Shortly before and 
after the death of his mother, he made his living by taking advantage of the means 
nearest to hand. The first employment obtained was setting up ten-pins in a l)Owl- 
ingalley; next he earned his way by peddling peppermint drops, stick candy, pins 
and needles, and hooks and eyes: next work was found on a farm managed by a ten- 
ant of Gen. Simon Cameron, a short distance east of Harrisburg: then employment 
in a bakery for six months was tried, and out of this he went into the office of the 
Harrisburg Telegraph and Der Vaterlands-Waechter. published by the then State 
printer, George Bergner. Learning to read English in a Lutheran Sunday-school, 
and intuitively realizing the necessity of a broad education, the youth now indus- 
triously applied himself to a wide reading and a practical study of the require- 
ments of newspaper work. For weeks and months he pursued his studies late after 
midnight. He attended every political meeting held in the evenings, every lecture 
to which he could have access, and as many theaters as ciicumstances permitted. 
He went to church twice every Sunday, and to Sunday-school, and eagerly devoured 
the contents of all the exchange papers he could lay his hands on. In this way he 
acquired a wide vocabulary, an acquaintance with different styles of oratory, and a 
knowledge of leading opinions on topics of the day. Blessed with a remarkable 



610 PICTOIUAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

memory, be not only knew tlie surname of nearly every promiueut politician in the State, 
but also bis initials, place of residence, etc., so mucb so that whenever tbe editor of 
tbe paper on wbicb he worked was in doubt as to this or that prominent individual's 
name, the ''Printer's Devil"' could always furnish accurate information. Daring 
this three years' apprenticeship service young Stoll was prepared for membership, 
by confirmation, in the Lutheran Church. While attending catechetical lectures, his 
pastor, the Rev. William Parr, became proftnindly impressed with the belief that 
this earnest student ought to qualify himself for the ministry. l\ev. Parr stronglj- 
insisted on this, even going so far as to provide for the yoiing printer's admission 
to Gettysburg College. This was a severe struggle for young Stoll. He became 
enthiisiastic over the opportunity of going to college, and at one time fully deter- 
mined to avail himself of his pastor's favor and friendship. But aboxit this period, 
the quarrel in the Democratic party broke forth over the Kansas-Nebraska contro- 
versy, and he became warmly enlisted on the side of the anti-administration wing 
of the party which strenuously protested against forcing the institution of slavery 
on an unwilling people. Politics became more and more an infatuation, so he 
finally decided not to study for the ministry at Gettysburg, but to plunge, with all 
the impetuosity of bis natui-e, into the political vortex. General reading, together 
with independent observation, resulted in his having opinions of his own. Ardently 
as he espoused the cause of ''Buck and Breck" in the campaign of 1856, even more 
vehemently he opposed the pro-slavery policy of the Buchanan administration. At 
the end of the apprenticeship, the boy of sixteen accepted a position as journeyman 
in the office of the Middleburg, Penn., Volksfreuiicl (People's Friend). A year 
later, by industry and strict economy, he was able to purchase an interest in the 
Independent Observer, at Johnstown. Penn. Through the rascality of his partner, 
this venture proved a financial failure, so his connection with this paper was 
severed. Maturing early, his associations from boyhood were with young men from 
five to ten years older than himself. That he might improve by superior knowl- 
edge and experience he, at times, wholly abjured the company of young men, and 
sought association with men of middle age. Appearing older than his years, 
men came to repose confidence and responsibility on the young shoulders. These 
trusts were assumed with dignity, and duty was faithfully discharged, so, when it 
was determined to hold a Douglas State convention to effect a thorough State organ- 
ization of the Douglas Democracy, and two delegates were chosen from Cambria 
county to represent the sentiment of that faction, it was no surprise to see young 
Stoll chosen one of that number. The older heads of the Democratic party of 
Johnstown were nearly all associated with the Breckinridge element. This had no 
depressing effect on young Stoll who now threw himself in the breach and enthusi- 
astically championed the cause of Stephen A. Douglas. At the ratification meeting 
called shortly after the Baltimore convention, he was the only speaker. It was the 
largest and most enthusiastic meeting held there during the entire campaign. The 
large hall was densely packed, and the audience was in hearty accord with the youth- 
ful orator. This was really the occasion of bis first political speech: and though 
perfectly conscious of a nervous organism, he spoke to the people for two hours, 
without notes, and so direct was his address that he held the perfect attention and 
secured the unreserved sympathy of his hearers. At the opening of the war, when 
men hesitated to express pronounced views, Mr. Stoll took a decided stand for the 
suppression of the Eebellion. In response to President Lincoln's proclamation call- 
ing out 75,000 men to put down the Eebellion, a great meeting was held at which 
young Stoll was the principal speaker. As a Democrat he said no patriot could 
occupy an equivocal position in regard to the duty of the hour. The Eebellion must 
be put down and the integrity of the Government maintained. He regretted that 
President Lincoln did not callfor 300,000 instead of 75.000 men. The storm that 
had been brewing for thirty years was upon them and patriotism demanded imme- 
diate and decisive action. As a true citizen of the Eepublic, he freely gave voice 



MEMOIUS OF lyniANA. 611 

and hand to support bis views, and tbrougli his direct influence many hesitating 
Democrats were prompted to enlist. He himself enlisted in one of the eight com- 
panies that were organized at Johnstown, within less than ten days after the fall of 
Sumter, but his company was rejected and disbanded finally on account of the over- 
flowing quota. Late in the spring of ISOl, Mr. Stoll, returning to Middlebnrg, 
resumed his former position on the "People's Friend. ' ' About the close of 1 863 he 
lx)Ught the paper of his employer, improved it, and greatly increased its patronage. 
In the early part of 1864, a few days after attaining his twenty-first year, he was 
elected a member of the school board of Middleburg and cho.sen its president. In 
the autumn of the following year he was elected county auditor, and had at his dis- 
posal a legislative nomination a year later. Business considerations and an irre- 
sistible inclination to go west and grow up with the country, caused a removal to 
Indiana in the spring of 1866. At twenty-three Mr. Stoll quietly Ijut surely laid 
the foundation of Democratic journalism in a comer of Indiana that was steeped in 
Republican ideas and sentiments. Possessed of that repose which characterizes phys- 
ical and mental health, he allowed no amount of scathing criticism to disturb the 
even tenor of his ways. The Ligonier Banner, the child of the new soil, was estab- 
lished in Noble county, May 3, 1866. He became successively editor-in-chief of the 
La Porte Argus, which he established in the spring of 1869; the South Bend Courier, 
a German paper (1875); the Elkhart Daily and Weekly Democrat, the name of 
which he changed to Elkhart -Vonttor n 881); all of which prospered in his hands 
and rapidly gained in circulation. During all this time he maintained his residence 
at Ligonier. In the spring of 1883 Mr. Stoll removed to South Bend, and 
though for years continuing to contribute to the columns of the Ligonier Banner 
he centered his newspaper work in the Times. Though attempted by men of acknowl- 
edged newspaper ability, because of the predominating Republican influence, re- 
peated failures had been the history of previous efforts to establish daily Demo- 
cratic papers in South Bend. By steady, well-defined effort and clear apprehension 
of what a progressive community demands of the newspaper, the Times prospered 
and became a social necessity. Mr. Stoll conceives the high mission of the press in 
diffusing moral tone and progressive ideas on economic, educational, political and 
ethical problems of the day; and he also recognizes the fact that the best class of 
people is hungering for just this sort of diet. He maintains that the purpose of a 
good family paper, daily or weekly, is not to scatter the seeds of discord, to find 
fault with pretty much everylx)dy and everything, nor to tear down, to array neigh- 
bor against neighljor, or to create discontent, but rather to counsel harmony and 
unity in building up, to commend that which is commendable, to teach people that 
it is right to render unto Caesar what rightfully belongs to Caesar, to counsel the 
proper direction of constructive forces, and to point the way of success by teaching 
habits of industry and frugality. Previous to 1869 the press of northern Indiana 
dealt too largely in personal journalism. A consideration of this impelled Mr. 
Stoll in that year to become in.strnmental in organizing the Northern Indiana Edit- 
orial Association, the chief object of which, besides a general improvement of the 
newspaper business, was to eliminate this evil. From the beginning of this organ- 
ization, he served as its president for six consecutive years. It is hardly necessary 
to state that since the founding of this association the newspaper business has rad- 
ically improved, both financially and morally. In June. 1892, Mr. Stoll was again 
made the presiding officer of this organization. Becau.se of the disastrous results 
of the campaign in 1880, and the failure to elect Gen. Hancock, a Democratic State 
Press Association seemed to lie needed, in order that the press might be more effi- 
cient and effective in disseminating Democratic principles; therefore, on January 8, 
1881, Mr. Stoll, together with a few interested friends, founded the Democratic 
State Editorial Association, served as its first president and is now chairman of the 
executive committee. His interests during these years were not confined to journal- 
ism, but his large sympathies gave personal support to the grave political issues, 



612 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

which in his youthful years possessed so much attraction. His pea and tongue had 
spoken in no uncertain terms of the principles which he believed to be right. His 
diction was always forcible and his arguments clear and sweeping. He not only 
gained prominence as a public speaker, but became an acknowledged leader of pub- 
lic opiuioD. Iq December of 1860, by special direction of President Johnson, he 
was appointed assistant assessor of internal revenue, in recognition of his unwaver- 
ing support of the President's reconstruction policy. In 1868, after two years' res- 
idence in the State, he was tendered the Democratic nomination to Congress, but 
declined, and the same j^ear he was elected chairman of the Democratic Central Com- 
mittee of Noble county, filling the position from 1868 to 1870 and again in 188(1. In 
January, 1870, he became a candidate for the Democratic nomination for State auditor, 
and, though less than four years a resident of the State, came within twenty-nine 
votes of securing the nomination against heavy odds. Two years later, he received 
the nomination for that ofBce against his successful competitor of 1870, but at the 
election, with the bulk of the Democratic ticket, was defeated by 172 votes, most of 
the other candidates on the ticket suffering a much heavier defeat. In 1870 Mr. 
Stoll was sent as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention at St. Louis, of 
which body he was elected one of the vice-presidents. Accepting the nomination of 
his party for Congress in 1878, he made a vigorous campaign and reduced the Repub- 
lican majority from 2,300 in 1876 to 1,600. Many will remember the heated polit- 
ical contest of 1884. In the two months before the election Mr. Stoll made a thorough 
canvass of St. Joseph county, as well as other parts of the State, and spoke almost 
every day. St. Joseph county in the preceding election had cast a majority vote 
of 498 for Garfield, and elected the entire Republican ticket. In 1884 the Demo- 
crats carried it by about the same figures, and have since controlled it. Considera- 
ble comment was occasioned by this election, in and out of the State, and in appre- 
ciation of Mr. Stoll's vigorous and valuable labor, both in person and through the 
columns of his bright paper, he was presented by the citizens of Dodd, Tex., a tine 
and valuable, gold-headed cane and a large list of subscribers. In recognition of 
his many services to the Democratic cause, the Indiana Congressional delegation, in 
1885. seconded by Vice-President Hendricks, unanimously recommended Mr. Stoll 
for the oflBce of public printer, the largest printing establishment in the world. His 
candidacy was endorsed by all the Democratic members of the Indiana Legislature, 
e.xcept one; the supreme judges, State officials and many influential Demociatic 
politicians, besides the active support of Congressmen from Illinois, Wisconsin, Mich- 
igan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and other States. The contest over the public printeiship 
lasted about eighteen months. Mr. Stoll, in the fall of 1885, requested his friends 
of the Indiana delegation to withdraw his name, for the reason that the delay had 
already proven expensive and vexatious, and that the President had had ample time 
to reach a conclusion. Senator Voorhees did go to the White House to request the 
withdrawal of Mr. Stoll's papers, but Mr. Cleveland protested against this, and 
asked for a '"little more time'' to look into the matter. From that on, however, Mr. 
Stoll lost interest in the contest, and made repeated requests to end the matter; but 
his immediate friends at the national capital refused to give their consent to this, 
insisting that since the fight had been waged for so looga time no retreat could be 
ordered, and the President himself must terminate the issue. The last request made 
of the President by Vice-Presiident Hendricks was that Mr. Stoll be appointed to 
this position. About a year after this final request had been made. Mr. Cleveland 
appointed T. E. Benedict, of the State of New York. (In justice to all concerned 
and to secure a full understanding of the case, it should be stated that after Presi- 
dent Cleveland had formed his cabinet, and Indiana had not received recognition, 
the President informed the Indiana delegation that if they could unite on a man for 
public printier that important position should be at their disposal. The delegation 
took decisive action at once by unanimously agreeing upon Mr. Stoll with the result 
as above stated.) It is said by those having this matter in charge that no applicant 



MEilUlUS Of lyVIASA. 613 

for appointment from Indiana had as strong endorsements from the best men iu the 
State, as those tiled with tlie President iu Mr. Stoll's behalf. Something of an idea 
of the character of these endorsements may be gained from the letters of three 
eminent pu!)lic men, among more than a hundred testimonials from other dis- 
tingni?;hed Indiana men. Supreme Judge J. A. S. Mitchell, late of Goshen, a gentle- 
man who enjoyed the unbounded esteem and love of his fellow-citizens, and who 
knew Mr. Stoll more thoroughly than perhaps any other prominent man in the State, 
wrote in these strong terms to the President: 

lNDi.\:sAroLis, April 15, 1885. 
To His Exeellenc!/, The President: 

It gives me great pleasure to recoramend to you for appointment to the office of public 
printer, Hon. John B. Stoll, of South Bend, Ind. My acciuaintance with Mr. Stoll com- 
menced when we were both younji men, about the year 18(36, and I have known him well and 
intimately ever since, and I speak from personal knowledge when I say that he is in every way 
worthy and competent for any public trust requiring intelligent application to duty, business 
capacity and industry. lie has had a large experience iu edidng and publishing newspapers, 
ha\ing"for years managed two important public journals with success, besides I know Mr. 
Stoll t^ be au upright, conscientious man, thoroughly devoted to what he undertakes and ambi- 
tious and capable of success. He is active, zealous and influential in his State, in high standing 
with all the hesl elements nf his party, who would receive his appointment as a compliment to a 
deserving and worthy gentleman. Very respectfullv, 

.J. A. S. Mitchell, Judge Supreme Court. 

Supreme Judge William E. Niblack, for many years a representative in Congress 
from the Vineenues district and for two terms a member of the supreme court of 
Indiana, gave this estimate of Mr. Stoll: 

IxDiAXAPOLis, April 23, ISSo. 

Referring to pending application of Hon. .John B. Stoll, of South Bend, in this State, for the 
office of pubUc printer at Washington, I take pleasure in siiying that I have had the honor of 
his acquaintance for nearly twenty years, during all of which time he has been connected with 
the public press of northern Indiana. He is a gentleman of recognized ability, of industry and 
great force of character. He is, moreover, apt, shrewd and appreciative in all matters relating 
to public affairs, with earnest convictions and the courage to do what he believes to be right. 
Taking all in all, I have regarded him for many years as one of the foremost newspaper men in 
the State, and, in some respects, in the lead of all the rest. 

Terse and significant were the words of Col. Charles Deuby, whom President 
Cleveland appointed as minister to China, and who still holds the position: "I take 
pleasure in recommending Mr. John B. Stoll for any appointment to which he may 
aspire." 

The estimates of these gentlemen have been given on these pages as a reflex of 
their judgment and a commentary on the subject of this sketch. In March, 1889, 
Mr. Stoll was elected trustee of the Indiana Institute for the Education of the Blind 
at Indianapolis, was appointed treasurer of the board, which position he still holds, 
having been unanimously renominated by the Democratic legislative caucus in 1891 
for a period of four years. In local interests as well as State, Mr. Stoll has been 
active and useful, and his resources have ever been iu demand by local clubs and 
business organizations. For two years he was treasurer and three years president 
of the Noble County Agricultural Society; was a member of the Ligonier town 
council for five consecutive years; was president of the two birilding, loan and sav- 
ing associations of Ligonier; was secretary of the Ligonier school board, and is at 
present president of the Working Men's Building & Loan Association of South 
Bend. Flattering inducements, from time to time, have been offered Mr. Stoll in 
the journalistic field. Prior to locating in Indiana he was offered the management 
of a widely circulated paper at Easton, Peun. ; in the seventies he was urged to accept 
the editorship of a newly establislied paper at Indianapolis; in 1874 tempting offers 
came from Minneapolis, Minn.; and iu 1885, a particularly inviting offer came from 
a number of prominent Democrats of Ciiicago to accept the editorial responsibility 
of a Democratic paper iu tliat city, but, after due consideration, he decided to remain 
in South Bend and devote his attention to his business centered there. In Middle- 
burg, Penu., Mr. Stoll met the lady who became his wife in 1801. From this mar- 



614 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

riage, oiit of eight, but four children are living: Ella C, Eva B., Edgar A. and 
Elmer Roscoe. Four children died in infancy, among them John B. While the 
father was absent on a campaign tour in the southern part of the State in 1870, 
Johnny succumbed to that terrible and dreaded malady, diphtheria. A precocious 
and unusually interesting child of four summers, beloved by the entire community, 
his loss was a most severe grief to the community at large and a crushing blow to 
the family. There are three distinctive measures of public policy in the advocacy 
of which Mr. StoU has for years been especially active and zealous. These are: 
Restricting immigration so as to prohibit the landing upon American shores of crim- 
inals, paupers, imbeciles and anarchists; a graduated income tax, and the election 
of United States senators by the people. Mr. Stoll has tilled the years with mater- 
ials for peace and prosperity. His unselfish, thoughtful consideration of others has 
won for him an unusually large circle of warm friends and many delightful acquaint- 
ances. Time has dealt kindly with him in preserving physical and mental strength, 
and as the fruit of time well spent, he enjoys at present a steadily growing business 
and the comforts of a beautiful home. 

William Kercher is a substantial farmer of Pennsylvania nativity, and from the 
date of his birth, which occurred in Lancaster county, December 31, 1813, be has 
resided either in that State, Ohio or Indiana. He is of German descent and has 
inherited many of the most worthy traits of the German race. His father, John 
Kerchei', was also born in Lancaster county, Penn. , and was married there to Cath- 
erine Koser, the daughter of a well-to-do farmer of that county, and their union 
resulted in the birth of the following children: William, Susan, Katie and Eliza. 
The father was a member of the Lutheran Church, was a hard-working, industrious 
man. and was naturally very strong and rugged, but his career was cut short by the 
hand of death at the age of fifty years. His son William unfortunately received but 
little schooling in his youth, instead of which his time was devoted to learning the 
miller's trade, at which he worked for sixteen years. At the age of twenty-six years 
he removed to Ohio, where he spent one year in the grist-mill of Benjamin Hushig, 
of Richland county, after which he worked for some time in a mill in Wayne county. 
He then returned to Richland county, and for four years worked in the Spring mill. 
The year before, January 7, 1838, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Moyer, daugh- 
ter of John Moyer, a farmer of Richland county, who became a resident of Elkhart 
county in 1819, and died at the age of eighty years, having been an upright and 
honorable man throughout a long and useful career. Nine children eventually came 
to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Kercher: Sarah, Catherine, John, Abraham, Susannah, 
William, Caroline, Albert and Rebecca. Mr. Kercher came with his family to Indi- 
ana in 1851, arriving in Goshen October 23 of that year, and in the spring of the 
following year he settled on his present farm, which then consisted of 120 acres, 
only a small portion of which had been cleared and improved. Like the majority of 
pioneer settlers 

" He cut, he logged, he cleared his lot 
And into many a dismal spot he let the light of day." 

He made many improvements, and after many years of hard labor he had the satis- 
faction of seeing waving fields of grain where once had been heavy timber land, and 
knew this to have been brought about by his own efforts. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Duukard Church, and he was one of the prime movers in building 
the church of that denomination in the township. He is a Republican, a public- 
spirited citizen, and an honorable man in every particular. Being essentially relig- 
ious he has brought up his children in a very creditable manner, and has assisted 
them all to a substantial start in life. His daughter, Sarah A., married Samuel 
Steiner, a farmer of Kansas, by whom she has four children; Catherine married Sam- 
uel Smith, also a farmer of the Sunflower State, by whom she has three children; 
John married Miss Kate Peck, by whom he has three children, and is a butcher of 
Freeport, 111.; Caroline married John Buzzard, a farmer of Harrison township, Elk- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 617 

hart county, and is the mother of six children; Abraham married Ann Buzzard, is a 
farmer of Elkhart township, and has six children; William married Eliza Ann Cripe, 
is a farmer of the township, and has four children; Rebecca married Samuel F. Croup, 
of Goshen, and has two children; Alfred married Sophia Blongh, and is farming on 
the old home place, and Susaa is at home. Mr. Kercher has twenty-eight grand- 
children and six great -graudchildren. 

Hon. E. Volney Bingham, Mishawaka, Ind. Among the members of the St. 
Joseph county bar there is no man who has been more the architect of his own fort- 
unes, as a representative and prominent citizen, than Mr. Bingham. In his chosen 
profession he occupies a high position which he has acquired by arduous study and 
a strict adherence to an honorable cause. As a citizen he is well and favorably 
known to his fellow townsmen, having passed all his life in their midst, while as a pol- 
itician he is deservedly popular with the leaders of his party, as well as with the 
masses. He is descended from sterling Scotch ancestors and from an old American 
colonial family who were among the early settlers of New England. Elisba Bing- 
ham, his grandfather, was born in Vermont, where he followed agricultural pursuits. 
He was married in that State to Phcebe Wright and afterward settled in western 
New York. As a citizen, he was present and took part in the battle of Plattsburg. 
After some years he moved to Ashtabula county, Ohio, of which he was one of the 
pioneer settlers and where he resided many years. In his old age he came to St. 
Joseph county, Ind. , and passed his declining years with his son Alfred, dying at the 
age of seventy-seven years. He was a member of the Baptist Church and an earn- 
est Christian gentleman. He was the father of Alva, Elisha, John, Lorinda, Mary, 
Alfred, Harriet and William Bingham. Alfred Bingham was born in western New 
York, February 16, 1810, and received the common-school education of his day. 
He was reared a farmer and was married in New York to Lucy Judson, by whom he 
became the father of two children who died young. Later they moved to Ashtabula 
county, Ohio, but between 183-(:-5 he removed to Branch county, Mich., and in 
1835-6 came to St. Joseph county, Ind., and settled on a tract of wild land in-Penn 
township. After a short residence on this land he located in Mishawaka and became 
an employe in the St. Joseph Iron Company, with which he remained for many 
years. Since that time he has engaged in various pursuits, but is now retired from 
active life, having reached the advanced age of eighty-three years. He has ever 
held a high place in the estimation of the public, for his career has been marked by 
honesty, energy and candor, and he has held a number of minor offices in his town- 
ship. He po.ssesses an active and inquiring mind, has always been a great reader, 
an independent thinker and of very decided opinions. After the death of his first 
wife he married Ann, daughter of Francis Miller, who was born in Ireland and came 
to America at the age of twelve years, settling in Pennsylvania, where he followed the 
occupation of farming and operated a carding-mill. Mr. Bingham's second union re- 
sulted in the birth of the following children: Newton, Francis, E. Volney, Sarah, 
Lydia J. , Eliza L. , Hattie and Ellen. He was a strong Union man during the 
great Civil war and had three sons in the army. Newton enlisted in Company F, 
Forty-eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry at Mishawaka in 1861, as a pri- 
vate. He was elected orderly sergeant, was promoted to second lieutenant at the 
battle of luka for bravery on the field, and was assigned to Company G. He was 
then commissioned first lieutenant, but never filled this ofBce as he received his 
commission as captain at the same time. Later he was made major and after serv- 
ing in this capacity for a short time was made lieutenant colonel and finally colonel. 
He was a brave and gallant soldier, an efficient officer and served his country until the 
war closed, dying soon afterward of consumption. Francis enlisted in the One Hun- 
dred and Thirtj' eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry and served about one 
year. E. Volney was in Company G. Forty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He 
was born in Penn township, St. Joseph Co., Ind., August 1, 18-t4. on his parents' farm, 
but was reared in Mishawaka, in the public schools of which he received his education. 

36 



618 PICTORIAL AND BIOGKAPIIICAL 

Wheu quite young he began working in a furniture factory. From bis earliest Ijoy- 
hood he was a great reader and when quite young began reading law, but his studies 
were interrupted by the Rebellion, and in February, 1864, he enlisted in the United 
States service, in which he remained until the war terminated, being with Sherman 
on his march to the sea, and from Savannah to Richmond, and terminated his mili- 
tary career with the Grand Review at Washington, D. C. After being mustered out 
and honorably discharged at Indianapolis he returned to Mishawaka with the rank 
of sergeant major, being a non-commissioned otiBcer on the regimental staff. After 
his return to Mishawaka he clerked for two years, after which he became a traveling 
salesman. During this time he had remained true to his determination to become a 
lawyer and as a means to this end he carried a law book with him on the road, and 
his leisure hours were devoted to its perusal. Owing to failing health he quit the 
road and for two years thereafter was unable to follow an active business life, but 
this time was by no means wasted, for it was spent in posting himself in his chosen 
profession. Upon regaining his health he was elected to the position of justice of 
the peace and held this position three terms, or twelve years, although the township 
was strongly Republican, and the Republicans always elected their ticket. While 
tilling this position he naturally resumed the study of law and was admitted to the 
bar in 1875, since which time he has been a successful practitioner. He has re- 
cently been elected by a good majority on the Democrat ticket to the State Senate, 
and although he is an active Democrat he has been by no means an office seeker. 
He was postmaster of Mishawaka for four years under President Cleveland and has 
been a member of the school board and of the board of school trustees of the town. 
He is entirely a self-made man and owes his success in life to his own unaided efforts. 
His education and knowledge of law was gained by painstaking study, which was 
pursued uuder many and trj'ing difficulties, but with characteristic energy he perse- 
vered and is now independent. He stands deservedly high as a member of the St. 
Joseph county bar and it is needless to say that his integrity is unimpeachable. 
December 7, 1872, he was married to Hattie E. Grrimes, daughter of Dr. J. F. 
Grimes, a sketch of whom appears in this volume, and to them four children have 
been born: Katie R., Hattie B., James F. and Charles W. 

Christian Umbadgh is one of the progressive young agriculturists of the county 
of Elkhart and is deeply interested in the welfare of this section, for here he was born 
on July, 29, 1861, being the sixth in a family of seven children (three of whom are 
living) born to the marriage of William Umljaugh and Elizabeth Cloves. The 
early life of Christian was spent on his father's farm, on which he was born, in Union 
township, which is located four and a half miles northeast of Nappanee, and his 
education, which is of a practical kind, was obtained in what is known as the Staufler 
school. Like most farmer's boys, he had to assist his parents on the farm when he 
became old enough, and thereafter attended school only during the winter months. 
He was left fatherless at the age of fourteen years and thereafter he assisted his 
mother and brother, William, in managing the old home place. There his mother 
was called from life in the month of March, 1890. At the age of twenty-two years 
Christian was united in marriage with Miss Susan Stump, born April 27, 1802, a 
daughter of Solomon Stump, a sketch of whom appears in this work, and imme- 
diately after they took up their residence on the farm of eighty acres, on which 
they are now living, all of which is well improved and forty acres are cleared, the 
other forty being in heavy timber land. At the time of their location the place had 
no improvements but an old log house which had stood on the place for years, but 
this Mr. Umbaugh burned down and erected on its site his present handsome resi- 
dence, and has made other valuable improvements in the way of out-buildings, 
fences, etc. He has shown himself to be a live and progressive young man and the 
manner in which he manages his farm shows that he possesses a thorough knowledge 
of his calling as well as sound judgment. His property has been acquired by up- 
right methods, and being interested in the welfare of his section and generous in his 



MEMOinS OF INDIANA. 619 

support of worthy causes, he is considered a decided acquisition to the region in 
which he resides. He is well informed on all the current issues of the day and has 
always supported Democratic principles. He is following a general Hue of farming, 
gives considerable attention to the raising of stock, and besides the laud on his 
home farm he tills forty acres in the vicinity of his home, on the west, and twenty- 
five acres near the old home place. He is one of the first citizens of the county, 
is an energetic young man and gives every promise of becomiug wealthy. He has 
two sous: Verner, who was born July 24, 1884, and Mervin, born March 10, ISSt'), both 
of whom are attending school. Mr. Umbaugh's parents came from Ohio to Indiana, 
but the mother was born in Germany November 16, 1824, and came to this country 
when a girl, her parents having died in their native land. She married Mr. Um- 
baugh in 1850 and two years later they took up their residence in Elkhart county, 
being among the early settlers of this region. Here they followed farming and 
reared their family. John died a number of years ago and left a family in Union 
township; George died at the age of eighteen years; Lizzie is the wife of William 
Wagner and is living in Nappanee; Regina was severely burned in childhood 
and died from its eilects; Christian; William is a farmer of Union township, 
and the rest of the children died in early childhood. The mother died when 
sixty-five 3'ears of age, having for many years been a member of the Reformed 
Church; she was an exemplary Christian and was loved by all who knew lier. The 
father was a prominent farmer of the county and died in 1877, having been born 
in Germany in 1816. When he was a young man he sought a fortune in America, 
eventually made a good property and left a good estate, which was divided among 
his children. He was also a member of the Reformed Church and held office in 
the same. He had experienced the trials and privations of pioneer life and thor- 
oughly knew the hard work involved in clearing up a farm from the wilderness. He 
was a stone-mason by trade and worked at that occiipation to some extent after 
taking up his residence in this country. After their marriage he and his wife first 
resided for a time in Columbiana county, Ohio, and upon coming to this section 
were in moderate circumstances, and here eventually became prominent. 

George Beck, the successful ice dealer of South Bend, Ind. , is a German by 
birth, born in the Fatherland on the 14th of July, 1821, to John and Sebina (Hab- 
ner) Beck, who were also born in that country. The father was a soap maker 
by trade in Rawitch, Bavaria, and being an industrious and prudent man, he 
became possessed of a considerable amount of worldly goods. Three of their 
sons and four daughters still reside in Germany. George Beck was the second 
eldest of the family and in his father's establishment learned the details of soap- 
making. The outlook for acquiring a competency in that country was too slow and 
uncertain to suit one of his energetic and ambitious disposition, and accordingly in 
1853 he turned his footsteps westward with the intention of making a home for 
himself in America and in 1858 became a resident of South Bend. He at once 
established a factory here for the manufacture of soap, which he contiuued with 
satisfactory financial results until 1876. He manufactured what was known as the 
Germany Model soap, the demand for which became large and remunerative. In 
1876 he gave up this line of work to engage in the ice business, which has since oc- 
cupied his time and attention. His patronage extends to all parts of the city, and 
as he keeps a pure line of ice, fills his orders promptly and at reasonable prices, he 
is fully deserving of the large patronage which is his. In the winter of 1891-2 he 
and his son put up about 8,000 tons, Ijut the June following the ice house was burned, 
the loss amounting to about $10,000 and there was no insurance. They have rebuilt 
their ice house and will do even a more extensive business in the future than they 
have done in the past. The education of Mr. Beck was obtained in the land of his 
birth and while there he was a soldier for six years in the regular army. He was 
married soon after he was released from the service, and for four years thereafter was 
eng iged in making soap on his own account, this experience and the apprenticeship 



620 PICTORIAL AND BIOGUAPHICAL 

which he had served under his father admirably fitting him for the suocessful conduct 
of such an enterprise. His wife was Miss Johanna Mavgarette, from the same locality 
as himself and their union resulted in the birth of two sons and live daughters, of 
whom one daughter is deceased: Minnie is the wife of Henry Fatish; Nomie is the 
wife of Mr. Grandes; Emma is a milliner of South Bend; Johanna is at home; John 
W. is in business with his father and George W. is a successful lumberman of 
Hobart, Mich. Mr. and Mrs. Beck are worthy church members and his first 
presidential vote was cast for James Buchanan. He is one of the substantial busi- 
ness men of South Bend, is honest and upright and has deservedly built up a large 
trade in the ice business. 

William Andeea Thomas. Perhaps there is no name more familiar, or more 
favorably known to the people of Elkhart county, Ind. , than the one above men- 
tioned. This is not alone due to the fact that the one to whom it belongs has been 
a resident of Elkhart county for more than half a century, but the name has been 
very intimately associated with the moral, social and intellectual and financial 
growth of the county. In fact the name of William A. Thomas is to Elkhart 
county and Goshen, what an heirloom is to a proud and deserving family. The 
family to which William A. Thomas belongs came from Wales to America prior to 
the Revolution and settled in one of the Atlantic States, but at an early day emi- 
grated to Virginia. Thomas Thomas, the great-grandfather of William A., was 
likely a soldier in the war for independence, as he often spoke of those times and 
his meeting with Washington and other notables of that period. The family were 
residents of Delaware at that time, and it was here that Thomas Thcmas, the father 
of the subject of this sketch, was born in 1792. He went with his father to Mon- 
roe county, Va., and there, in 1815, he married Mary, daughter of a Mr. Kelly, a 
substantial farmer of that county. Early in 1827 Mr. Thomas came with his fam- 
ily to Richmond, Ind., but in less than two years he moved to Gary Mission, Mich., 
and in 1828 or 1829, located on Two Mile Plain, his nearest neighbors being a Mr. 
Rousnau, on Elkhart River, two miles away, and Andrew Naufsinger on the north 
side of the St. Joseph River. Here he engaged in farming and remained until the 
organization of the county, when he was chosen the first circuit court clerk, and 
moved his family to Goshen. He was clerk of that court fourteen years and well 
and faithfully performed his duty. During his incumbency in the clerk's office, he 
started a store at Leesburg and later one in Goshen which, with the aid of William 
A., he successfully operated. He was a man of very decided convictions, as his 
leaving Virginia that his family might be reared away from the baneful influences 
of slavery clearly indicates. He was an old line Whig, and a memlier of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, and was in all ways a most worthy man. To him and wife 
were born a family of ten children, the most of whom married and made their 
homes in Elkhart county, where they became well-known and highly respected citi- 
zens. Lewis D., one of the sons, was the efficient recorder of the county for several 
years. Mrs. Thomas died in 1845, deeply lamented by the family and community. 
Later in life Mr. Thomas took a second wife, by whom he became the father of one 
child. Mr. Thomas died in Kosciusko county in 1883, at the advanced age of 
ninety-one years. William Andrea Thomas was born in Monroe county, Va. , March 
3, 1816, and his education was such as the subscription schools of that day afforded. 
When the family moved to Goshen, William, for some time, found employment on 
a farm near town. He clerked for his father in the store at Leesburg, and later in 
the store at Goshen. The latter establishment was a frame structure on the present 
site of Dale's drj' goods store, and was built by the Defrees Bros. In 1838 he en- 
tered the circuit clerk's office as deputy to his father, and from that time on he was 
virtually that official, as his father was absent much of the time. In 1844 he was 
a candidate for clerk on the Whig ticket, but his being the losing party, he was con- 
sequently defeated. This ended his political career and the year following he and 
Milton Mercer engaged as partners in mercantile pursuits at Bainter's Mills, but 



MEMOIIiS OF INDIANA. 621 

some time later removed their stock of goods to Goshen, where they remained 
together in business some three years. From that time on for more than twenty 
consecutive years, he was an active and uniformly successful merchant. In 1869 
he established a fiouring-mill on the Hydraulic Canal, which, for years, did a 
flourishing business. In 1875 he closed out his dry goods business, and a year later 
established the Farmer's Bank at Goshen, taking in as a partner his son-in-law, 
La Porte Heefner. This institution, under tlie wide and conservative management 
and direction of Mr. Thomas, has become one of the leading financial institutions 
in northern Indiana. November 14, 1845, Mr. Thomas was united in mairiage 
with Miss Sarah J. McKinney, whose people were well known residents of Miami 
county, Ohio. Three years later Mrs. Thomas died, having borne him two children: 
John F. and Sarah I. November 5, 1850, Mr. Thomas married Miss Eliza C, 
sister of his first wife, and a lady of great social and moral worth. By this union 
there were three children: Mary E., Jane E. and Elvira L. Of the five children 
born to him, only three are living. The only son and Mary E. are deceased. Sarah 
I. became the wife of C. M. Harris, and is a resident of Goshen; Jane E. married 
La Porte Heefner, and Elvira L. resides at home. Could it be known the motives 
which actuate the most humble, a romance as picturesque as the Arabian Nights 
or Lalla Rookh might be written, but as actions, character and things accomplished 
are the only outward manifestations of the real man, it is upon these and these 
alone that the judgment must be founded and the verdict given. This being true, 
it can never be otherwise than pleasant to consider the life of a man whose character 
has been firm and unswerving in the right, whose actions have been manly, and 
who has accomplished that which commands the respect and esteem of all who know 
him. All this can be justly said of William Andrea Thomas. A son of honest and 
industrious parents, who came to Indiana at a time when naught but hardships were 
to be expected, he early learned the importance of self-reliance and economy, and 
at an early age began the battle of life for himself. His whole life has been one of 
toil and close application to his varied interests. He early recognized the fact that 
nothing could be attained without labor, and bearing this ever in mind, he has done 
his work well, and now in his old age he is enjoying a justly earned competency 
and the respect of all who know him. By some, Mr. Thomas is considered a severe 
economist, but be that as it may, it can truly be said of him that he is a true friend 
to those whom he considers deserving of his friendship. Politically he has always 
voted and acted in opposition to the Democratic party. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Such in brief is an account of the life 
of William Andrea Thomas, one of Elkhart county's oldest and most highly re- 
spected citizens. 

Milton Mercer, who has been long atid prominently connected with the busi- 
ness affairs of Goshen and throughout an honorable career in the commercial affairs 
of the city has made numerous warm friends, owes his nativity to Fairfield, 
Green Co., Ohio, where he was born on June 23, 1820, his parents being Moses 
and Mary (Carpenter) Mercer, with whom he came to Goshen, Ind. , arriving on the 
day he was twelve years of age. The journey thither was a tedious and toilsome one 
and young Milton covered the entire distance on foot. Owing to the fact that the 
family was in straitened circumstances, and the head of the familj' an invalid, 
who died in April, 1833, Milton was compelled to seek employment in order to as- 
sist in the support of the family, which consisted of three younger brothers. At 
that time the country was new and the now thriving town of Goshen was but one year 
old, conse(piently it did not take him long to find employment in a store owned and 
conducted by Morrison, Harris & McCord, at the by no means munificent compen- 
sation of $3 per month. He boarded at home with his mother, and although his 
compensation was small it aided materially in keeping the wolf from the door, and 
although he was brought in contact with the hard realities of life at an early age it 
taught him many useful lessons, among which energy and self-reliance were not the 



632, riCrOlilAL ASl) liKHiliM'inCAL 

least. From that tiruo on, until IS44, liis onorjjy ami dosire to please thoso with 
whom he had business relations sooured him steady eniployment, hut at the end of 
that time he wisely decided to en}»age in business on his own account and he accord- 
iui:;ly openeil a mercantile establishment at Wyland.-- Mills (now called New Paris Mills), 
where he remained successfully employed for two years, at the end of which time he 
moved his stock to Goshen and there continvied to be one of the foremost merchants 
until ISol. In 1S4S his many acceptable qualities won him the position of county 
commissioner, iu dischar^iny the duties of which he made an enviable record for 
himself and in I80O his nnn>erons friends showed their appreciali.ni of his worth by 
electing him their repieseutalive in the le<^islative halls of the State, where his 
record for efliciency and interest in the affairs of his section won him the hearty ap- 
proval of his constituents. On June 12, 1850, he was united in niarriai:»e to Miss 
Olive E. Francisco, daughter to John and Anna Francisco, of Naples, Ontario 
Co., N. Y. Mrs. Mercer was born January 28, 1832. and her union with Mr. 
Mercer has resulted in the birth of live children, three of whom are living: Arthur 
L. . Lottie H. and Hervey V.; Anna Mary died September 18, 1852, and Henry F. 
died March lU, 1874. Having purchased a farm north of the town, he at once 
turned his attention to improving it and during the time that he resided, on it. from 
1854 to 1878. he erected thereon some fine buildings, good fences and im]iroved it in 
such a manner that it was justly regarded as one of the most valuable farms of the 
size in the county. In 185() he was again electedtotheState Legislature, discharging 
his duties with his former intelligence andenergy. In 1858 he bought the controll- 
ing interest in the Bank of Goshen, assumed the management of the same, and when 
the National Bank was chartered, he connected it with the Bank of Goshen, under 
the name of the First National Bank of Goshen, but when Congress passed the act 
demonetizing silver Mr. Mercer gave notice that the bank would close up its affairs. 
Although his early opportunities for acquiring an education were of the most meager 
description, he possessed a naturally brilliant mind, and had the pluck, keen fore- 
sight and penetration to make the most of every opportunity that came in his way, 
and his efforts were rewarded in the accumulation of a large amount of property, 
which he had the satisfaction of knowing was obtained by honest efforts in- 
stead of any fraudulent means whatsoever. He has been au extensive and varied 
reader and has always been a liberal supporter of enterprises that have recom- 
mended themselves to his excellent judgment, and has been a potent factor in bring- 
ing them to a successful issue. He was president of the company that constructed 
the water power at Goshen. 

Ebexezer M. Ch.\mberl.\in, es-judge and congressman, was born in Orrington, 
Penobscot Co., Me., .\ugust 20, 1805. His early education was limited to such 
as he could obtain iu the common schools, during the winter months, when his 
labor on the farm was not required for the su]i]mrt of his father's family. At six- 
teen he left the farm and worked in a ship-yaid for six years: but, in accordance 
with the New England custom, his father received his earnings until the day of his 
majority, .\fter this auspicious epoch he continued his labors at the ship-yard, and 
iu a short time saved a fund large enough to enaVile him to spend six months at au 
academy. After this he studied law in the office of Elisha H. Allen. Esq., of Ban- 
gor, for three years, and taught school to earn the necessaries of life. In 1831, 
while a law student, young Chamberlain achieved prominence in the debates of the 
Sunday mail question which engrossed the public attention at that time. So able 
were his arguments against its jirohibition, before the Forsenic Club, that those who 
favored his views printed them iu pamphlet form and circulated them extensively. 
The laws of Maine requiring seven years' preliminary study before admission to the 
bar, Mr. Chamberlain, on account of limited means, determined to emigrate to the 
more promising West. In June, 1832. with but a few dollars, the proceeds of the 
previous winter's school, he set his face, solitary, yet hopeful, for Indiana, and 
arrived iu Fayette county a month later. After a short spell at school, teaching to 



SlEMOrns OF INDIiyA. 623 

replenish his treasury, he entered the law office of Samuel \V. Parke, Esq., of Con- 
nersville, and Aufjust 9, 1833, was admitted to the bar. A few months later he 
removed to Elkhart county and practiced his profession. In 1835 he was elected 
representative in the Legislature from northern Indiana, a district nearly one-fifth of 
the entire State. Mr. Charuberlain, was, on November 28, 1838, united in marriage 
to Phebe Ann, daughter of Amasa Hascall, Esq., of Le Roy, New York. In 1839 he 
was elected to the State Senate for a three-years term, and took rank as one of the 
leaders of the Democratic p.irty. His famous address on the anniversary of the 
battle of New Orleans, delivered before the Demfjcratic State Convention in 1841, 
exemplified before the people his strength and eloquence, and thereafter his polit- 
ical preferment was rapid and continuous. In 1842 he was elected by the legisla- 
ture prosecuting attfjrney of the Ninth Judicial District, and a year later presiding 
jadge of the same district. At the expiration of his term in 18ol he was re-elected 
without opposition. So clear was the justice he gave out impartially to all that, 
when adverse criticism appeared in the Whig press, the entire bar in attendance at 
court united in a letter to Judge Chamberlain testifying to the "creditable, digni- 
fied, courteous and satisfactory" manner in which he di.scharged the duties of his high 
office. The a.ssociate judges, both Whigs, added their written encomiums of praise 
to the same effect. During the nine years he remained on the bench Judge Cham- 
berlain retained the respect and esteem of the bar and people. The high regard of 
his party is illustrated by the frequent honors bestowed on him. In 1844 he was a 
delegate to the Democratic National Convention. In 1848 he was one of the sena- 
torial candidates for presidential elector and aided in giving the vote of the State 
to General Cass. In 18-Jl he resigned the judgeship to accept the nomination for 
Congress, which his party had made in the reorganized Tenth District. Congress- 
man Brenton was a candidate for re election, but notwithstanding the fact that he 
had received a majority of about three hundred votes at the first contest, was so 
far outclassed by Judge Chamterlain's popularity and eloquence, that our subject 
was elected by many a thousand majority. 

Simon- Tes.s is one of the prominent and self-made men of St. Joseph county, 
Ind., who.se conduct in business matters and in the discharge of the duties belonging 
to the various relations of life, have brought him into prominent notice and has 
resulted in his being elected to the respon.^ible po^-ition of county treasurer of .St. 
Joseph county on the Democrat ticket. He comes from worthy German stock, for 
his grandfather, Theobald Yenn, was a native of Alsace-Lorraine, and throughout life 
followed the calling of a mason. His son, Theobald, the father of Simon Yenn. was 
bom in that country also, January 21, 1813, being the date of his birth. After 
receiving a good education in the common schools of his native land, he learned the 
mason's trade of his father, and eventually became a contractor. He was married 
to Miss Christina Greewey, and to them a family of eight children was given: 
Oasimer, who died in infancy; Simon: Christina was Mrs. Peter Weber, who died in 
America; Agnes, who was born in Alsace, is the deceased wife of John Gooley; 
Edward, who died in infancy; Cecilia, born in Stark county, Ohio, married 
to Daniel Pealy and lives on part of the old homestead in St. Joseph 
connty; another one (Edward) died in Stark county, at the age of four 
years. In 1845 Mr. Yenn crossed the ocean to America, and after resid- 
ing in Canton, Ohio, for one year, he purchased land in Stark county, on which 
he made his home until the spring of 1864, when he came to St. Joseph county, 
Ind., and purchased a farm of 120 acres in Green township. For three years before 
his death, which occurred October 20, 1891, he lived with his .son Simon. He was 
a man of great energy and industry and became a substantial and well-to-do citizen 
through his own earnest efforts. In hi-s religious views he was a Catholic, and polit- 
ically always gave his support to the Democratic party. Simon Y'enn was al.so bom 
in Alsace- Lorraine, May 11, 1840, and ever since his fourth year has been a subject 
of Uncle Sam, having come to the " land of the free" at that time. As soon as old 



634 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

enough be was placed in the public schools, and possessing a bright mind and a 
retentive memory he made rapid progress in his studies and eventually taught school 
for two 3'ears in Stark county, Ohio. He was also married there, September 23, 
1862, to Josephine, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Pohl) Roth, the former of 
whom was a German by birth, but at that time a successful farmer of Stark county, 
Ohio, and later of St. Joseph county, Ind. , becoming a resident of this section in 
1862. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Yenn has resulted in the birth of the following 
children: Simou M., Mary J., Hattie E., Clara C, ^Villiam H. and Francis J. 
(twins), George, August B. and Augusta G. (twins), the latter dying at the 
age of six months. In 1863 Mr. Yenn came to Mishawaka, driving a team for John 
Wagner, and afterward managed the farm of his father for four years. Since the 
spring of 1868 he has been a resident of Mishawaka, and in the same fall e.stab- 
lished his present store, which he has conducted in a most satisfactory and snc- 
cessful manner. He has hosts of friends in consequence of his al>ility and integrity, 
justly merits the abundant success that has attended his well-directed efforts, and has 
spared no pains to please and satisfy each and every one of his patrons. He and 
his wife are members of the Catholic Church, aud he is a Democrat politically, 
by which party he has been elected to the position of town trustee of Mishawaka 
four terms. He has ever been a patron of education, and has given his children 
good advantages. His son, Simon M. , attended Canisius College at Buffalo, N. Y. , 
and the Propaganda in Rome, Italy, and has been located as priest at Goshen, Ind., 
for the past three years; William H. is attending the same institution &fter 
one year's attendance at Notre Dame, Ind. ; Mary J., married August Hoerstmann, a 
miisic teacher and organist, by whom she has two children; Hattie E. married 
John Herzog, who clerks in his father's shoe store in Mishawaka and is also city 
clerk. Three sons assist Mr. Yenn in his store: Frank, George and August; Mary, 
Hattie and \Yilliam have clerked in the postoffice at different times, and the entire 
members of the family are intelligent aud enterprising. Mr. Y'enn is now hold- 
ing the office of county treasurer. 

Nicholas Inbodt. In the early settlement of the State of Indiana, especially in 
the settlement of Elkhart county. Mr. Inbody was closely identified with its material 
affairs and was associated with its progress and development. He comes of good 
old colonial stock, for his grandfather came from Germany and settled in Virginia 
prior to the Revolution, and in the Old Dominion he reared his family. There it 
was that Matthias Inbody, the father of the subject of this sketch first saw the light 
of day aud there it was that he attained mature years, received Lis education, and in 
time married Catherine Frees, by whom he became the father of a good old-fash- 
ioned family of eleven children: PoUe, John, Benjamin, Joseph. George, Margaret, 
Eliza, Julia A., Nicholas, Catherine and Elizabeth. Mr. Inbody's first settlement 
after his marriage was in Hocking county, Ohio, where he was one of the pioneers 
and here he cleared up a farm and lived until 1836. when he came to Elkhart county, 
Ind., and settled on the west side of the river from Goshen, where he opened a shop 
for the mending of plows and wagons, having followed this business in Ohio, near 
Logan, and this was the first plow and wagon shop in the county. He formerly 
made the old-fashioned wooden mold-board plow, obtaining the board from a 
twisted tree, on which he riveted an iron share, but after coming to Indiana only 
made a few of these implements, the most of his attention being devoted to the 
manufacture of the famous "Pocock plow," which was made of steel aud iron aud 
was much thought of among the farmers and obtained a wide and favorable reputa- 
tion. He followed this occupation for many years and died in 1870 at the age of 
seventy-five years. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran Church, and 
were in very good financial circumstances, owning a good farm of 120 acres. 
Nicholas Inbody, their son, was born in Hocking county, Ohio, May 7, 1820. and in 
his youth not only learned the details of agriculture, but also the carpenter's trade. 
He was fifteen years of age when he came with his father to this State and county 



UEMOIltS OF ISVIANA. 625 

having prior to that time obtained a limited common-Bcbool educatioD. In Decem- 
ber, 1845, at the age of twenty-seven years, he was married to Hannah Paulus, a 
daughter of David and Margaret (\\'agoner) Paulus, and to them four children were 
given: Elizabeth, Chauncy, Allen and John M. After his marriage Mr. Inbody 
livedin Goshen until 1847, when he settled on eighty acres and began his career as 
a farmer, and by thrift and industry has added to this purchase until he is now the 
owner of 1C8 acres of fine farming land, which is in a good state of cultivation and 
is a well-improved tract of land in the way of fences, buildings, etc. His first eighty 
acres were heavily covered with timber, but this Mr. Inbody cleared with his own 
hands, built a little log cabin and continued his labors nninterruptedlj^ until he had 
a good farm. Farm labor, although hard, has always been congenial to him, and 
this may be clearly proven in looking over his farm, which is a model of neatness 
and comfort. He and his wife are members of the German Baptist Church, and he 
stands high as a good citizen and an honest man. He is in favor of progression in 
all directions, is public spirited and the cause of education has ever found in him a 
hearty supporter, as also have all moral and religious measures. Politically he is a 
Democrat, but is in no sense of the term a political aspirant. His daughter Eliza- 
beth married John J. Gripe, a farmer of Hanison township, and has five children: 
Chauncy, married Mary Rizzle. is a farmer of the township and has two children; 
Allen is farming the home place, is married to Caroline Michael and has one child, 
and John M. also tills the home farm and is married to Lizzie Riley. 

, John McNaughtos, who is a prominent capitalist and real estate owner of Elk- 
hart, Ind., was born in Campbeltown, Argyleshire, Scotland, October 20, 1828. His 
parents, Donald and Jane (Matheson) McNaughton, were descended from old High- 
land Scotch families. His mother died in Scotland in 1833, and in 183G his father 
moved with his children to Chatham. Upper Canada, where they resided on a farm 
until his death in 1838, after which the family removed to Detroit, Mich. The fam- 
ily consisted of Neil, who died in Goshen, Ind. ; Mary (Stewart), who died in De- 
troit, Mich.; Ann (McCormick), now living in Detroit, Mich.; Jane died at St. Cath- 
erine, Canada; Donald died at Buffalo, N. ¥., in 1891; John, the subject of this 
sketch, and Barbara now living in Detroit, Mich. After the father's death the fam- 
ily took up their residence at Detroit. John, at that time about ten or eleven years 
of age, went to Niles, Mich., where he had a home with his married sister, Margaret, 
with whom he afterward removed to South Bend, Ind., and from there to Goshen, 
where he acquired a good common-school education and graduated with honor from 
the primitive educational institution of that embryo city. In 1851 he became a resi- 
dent of Elkhart and embarked in mercantile business where he successfully conducted 
general store for fifteen years. At the breaking out of the war in 1861, he was in 
New York purchasing goods, and taking advantage of the panicky and demoralized 
condition of the markets he purchased very heavily, foreseeing the inevitable advance 
in prices, thus illustrating the far-seeing business sagacity which has marked all 
his investments. In 1865 he retired from mercantile business, and the next year, in 
connection with John Davenport, B. L. Davenport, A. S. Davenport, J. E. Beards- 
ley, S. S. Strong, Samuel Hoke, A. P. Simonton and William Proctor, organized the 
Elkhart Hydraulic Company, and the close of the year witnessed the completion of 
the finest water power in northern Indiana, which still stands as a monument to its 
enterprising builders, and was the foundation from which the manufacturing indus- 
tries of this enterprising city have grown. Of late years Mr. McNaughton has devoted 
attention mainly to real estate, making his investments with that foresight which is 
characteristic of him. He now holds much valuable and desirable business and resi- 
dence property from which he has a handsome income. He was one of the original 
owners and promoters of the Electric Railway Company, of which company he is 
vice-president. This enterprise, while not in itself a great financial success, has 
been one of the chief factors in the growth of the city. In addition to his invest- 
ments in city real estate, Mr. McNaughton and Mr. John Cook, who have been inti- 



686 PICTORIAL ASl) BIOGHAPIIICAL 

mate friends for forty years, have a fine farm of 3,41 1 acres about two miles west of 
the city on the St. Joseph River, where they spend a good share of their time, more 
for pleasure than for profit. In 1853 Mr. McNaughton was married to Miss Jane 
A. Hiller, a native of New York, and daughter of William Hiller. Her death oc- 
curred August 31, 1854, and in October, 1858, he took for his second wife Miss 
Laura E. Davenport, a native of Elkhart county, and daughter of John Davenport. 
From this union two children were born, both of whom unfortunately died in infancy, 
and Mrs. McNaughton survived them but a short time, dying Sejitember 17, 1861. 
His political aliRliation has always been with the Democratic party, but he has never 
been an active politician. 

Dr. H. J. Beyerle. As a distinguished physician. Dr. Beyerle has done much 
for the cause of suffering humanity, and won honor and the evidences of deserved suc- 
cess for himself. While engaged in the cares of his laborious profession, he has not 
forgotten to fulfill all the demands of good citizenship, and no enterprise of a worthy 
public nature has appealed to him in vain for support. He was born in Berks 
county, Penn., June 4, 1823, and picked up the rudiments of his education in the 
subscription school, which was conducted about three months during the year. In 
1837, at the age of fourteen years, he was one of two persons, the other being an 
elderly gentleman of the name of William Runkel, to organize the first Sunday- 
school in the village of Bernville, Berks Co., Penn. ; the first one for that matter in 
that section of the country. He was the chorister, while Mr. Runkel performed the 
devotional exercises, the two constituting the teachers of the school. About that sime 
Mr. Beyerle began clerking in a country store, which occupation received his attention 
for nearly four years, at the end of which time his broad, liberal and kindly nature 
turned instinctively to that relief of human suffering — medicine — for his life work, 
and he began his studies, also teaching school a part of the time. After attending 
two courses of medical lectures in Philadelphia, he received the degree of M. D. from 
the Philadelphia College of Medicine in 1851, after which he followed his profession 
in several different towns in his native State, taking up his residence in Indiana in 
1856. After spending a few months in Goshen, he opened an office at Syracuse, 
Kosciusko Co., Ind., but shortly after he moved to a farm near that town. In 1862 
he was elected a member of the State Legislature. The year following this he 
moved to Leesburg, and in 1865 came back to Goshen, of which place he has since 
been a resident. In his earlier years Dr. Beyerle devoted much of his time to liter- 
ature, contributing to various papers in Philadelphia, and also to Peterson's Mag- 
azine and Goiei/s Lady Book in the same city, and to the International Magazine of 
New York, his articles being in both prose and poetry, and he also wrote some inter- 
esting reports of medical cases for the Philadelphia Medical and Surgical Journal. 
Upon settling in Goshen in 1865 he engaged in the drug business, but about the 
year 1870 he was chosen as manager of the Goshen Manufacturing Company, of 
which he was the leading stockholder. The company had a foundry and machine 
shops, engaged in the manufacture of reapers and other machinery, and largely in the 
manufacture of extension tables, and this was the first concern of the kind in tlie West 
to ship the goods largely to different parts of tlie country, from New York to California, 
also north into Canada, and south as far as Tennessee and South Carolina. This 
business proved such a success, that various other enterprises of the kind were 
started, and it soon became one of the leading industries of the county. In the 
spring of 1877, he purchased a half interest in the Goshen Times, and in August, 
1880 became sole proprietor and editor. Since that time two of bis sons have also 
acquired an interest in the paper. Dr. Beyerle has been a useful member of society, 
and has served the people iu the capacity of city councilman four years, and two 
efficient terms as a member of the school board. In 1880 he was a contingent pres- 
idential elector on the Republican ticket for the Thirteenth Congressional District, and 
at all times has supported and advocated his party's interests by every means iu his 
power. He has been married three times, first to Miss Lydia Bicksler of Fredericks- 



MEMOIUti OF lyDIANA. 627 

burp;, Penn., in 1844 who died in 1862, after -whicli be wedded Miss Amelia Shull 
of Montpelier, lad., iu 1863, and after her death in 1877, to Miss M. Ellen Taney- 
hill of Bryan, Ohio. Of his children four are living: A. Ramsey, one of the editors 
of the Times: Daniel B., a traveling salesman; Lincoln H., the postmaster of Go- 
shen, and Edyth J. The first two were born in Pennsylvania, and the last two in In- 
diana. 

Thom.\s Miller. The career of the gentleman whose name heads this sketch is 
but another evidence of what can be accomplished by those of foreign birth who seek 
a home and fortune on the free soil of America. He possesses the push, energy and 
enterprise for which his countrymen are noted, and as a natural consequence he has 
been succesful in the accumulation of means, and has won a reputation for honesty 
and fair dealiug that is in every respect justly merited. He was born iu the king- 
dom of Wurtemberg, Germany, December 19, 1818, his parents being Frederick and 
Margaret A. (Kling) Miller, who were also natives of Wurtemberg, the life of the 
father being spent in tilling the soil, in which he was reasonably successful. One of 
his brothers was a soldier under the great Napoleon, and lost his life during the Rus- 
sian campaign. Frederick Miller was for some time in the mail service of the Ger- 
man Government, but in 1831 became dissatisfied with his life and prospects in the 
land of his birth, and with his family crossed the Atlantic to the United States, and 
made a location at Lancaster, Penn., where he remained until 1833, a portion of the 
time being spent in tilling the soil. Belleville, Richland Co., Ohio, became his 
home, two brothers of Mrs. Miller having preceded him thither, and here the family 
remained three years longer. The year of 1835 Adam Kling, a brother of Mrs. 
Miller, had come to Indiana, and returned to Ohio with such glowing accounts of 
the country that it was sufficient to induce the Millers to return with him to this 
State in 1836, the journey being made with ox teams, driving other cattle which they 
expected to sell and with the proceeds purchase land. After their arrival they 
could not dispose of their stock, owing to the fact that all kinds of grain brought 
a very high price, corn being SI a bushel, wheat $2 a bushel, pork ]2| cents a pound 
and salt $10 per barrel. To use a homely phrase, the stock had " eaten their heads 
off" by spring. So, after they had paid their debts in the spring, the family had but 
little to live on, and they for some time found it a hard matter to keep the wolf from 
the door. Although they had intended to give their attention to farming they had 
no money to do so, and after the heavy expenses of the winter were paid they found 
themselves almost stranded financially. They purchased a lot, on which a small log 
house had been erected, at the southeast corner of what is now North Fifth and 
Clinton streets, and here they for a long period had a hard struggle for existence, 
and their accumulated troubles and hardships at last culminated in the death of the 
head of the family in 1838. The widow and her children were then left in destitute 
circumstances, to "sink or swim" as best they could, and, although their struggles 
were unceasing, they barely kept their heads above water for some time. At the 
time of Mr. Miller's death the family consisted of the widow and two sons, an elder 
son, Jacob, being a man of family, who did not come to Indiana for s-onie time after 
the father's death. Thomas Miller nobly did his part in the support of the family, 
and with the help of his mother they paid the mortgage on their lot, and were in 
time well supplied with all the necessaries and many of the comforts which make the 
wheels of existence run smoothly. In 1862, at the age of seventy-two years, in 
Goshen, the mother paid the last debt of nature and was called to the life beyond. 
Owing to the straitened condition of their finances, and to the fact that his time 
and strength were devoted to the interests of the family, the educational advantages 
of Thomas Miller were quite limited, but he possessed the natural shrewdness and 
good business judgment of the native German, and made the most of every oppor- 
tunity that presented itself for the bettering of his financial condition. On July 29, 
1841 he was married to Miss Susanna Ullery, who was born in Ohio, in which State 
her father, Jacob Ullery, was called from life, her mother afterward marrying Jacob 



628 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Studebaker, and in 1S30 moved with him to Elkhart county, Ind. , settling on the 
Elkhart River, about one and a half miles south of where Goshen now is. Mrs. 
Miller came with her mother and step-father to Indiana, and amid the rude surround- 
ings of a pioneer farm she grew to intelligent and noble womanhood. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Miller purchased fifty acres of wild land, and as their means were limited 
they were compelled to labor early and late and endure many privations. To their 
union seven children were given: Margaret A., wife of John E. Ogle; Sophia, who is 
now deceased, was the wife of James Bradugum; Caroline is the wife of George 
Simpson, and resides in Iowa: Mary, who is deceased, was the wife of Henry R. 
Stutsman; Sarah is the wife of Charles C. Miller; Lydia is the wife of George W. 
Miller, and Franklin T. is married and resides in Goshen. The mother of these 
children was called from life June 21, 1S54, at which time the eldest of her seven 
children was eleven years of age and the youngest eleven days. She was a member 
of the German Baptist Church, and a most worthy woman in every respect, being a 
model wife, mother, friend and neighbor. From a humble beginning he has risen 
to honorable citizenship, is one of the solid men of Goshen, and a man who enjoys 
the esteem of both old and young. He has grown gray in the upbuilding of the 
city of his adoption, and has also grown wealthj-, being the owner of 200 acres of 
line land in Elkhart county and valuable property in Goshen, being a stockholder in 
the City National Bank. He is a Democrat from convictions and not from policy, but 
is broad and liberal in his views, and has been entrusted with public office and pub- 
lic funds many times, and has never been found wanting. He has administered on 
many estates, he being almost equal with a probate court, and probably no private 
individual's name appears more frequently in the archives of the county govern- 
ment. He is a member of the Masonic order and treasurer of Goshen Lodge, No. 12. 
Benjamin Cripe, one of the pioneer settlers of Elkhart townshi]^, Elkhart Co., 
Ind., comes of Pennsylvania Dutch stock, or what is considered so, although his 
grandfather, Jacob Cripe, came from Germany. Daniel Cripe, son of Jacob, and 
the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Somerset county, Penn., but in 
early life became a resident of Montgomery county, Ohio, and for some years resided 
in the vicinity of Dayton. In early life he united fortunes with Madeline Miller, 
and in due course of time the following family gathered about their hearthstone: 
Benjamin, Samuel, Daniel, John, Emanuel, Betsy, Susan, Kate and Polly. In 1829 
Daniel Cripe settled on Elkhart Prairie. His son Emanuel Cripe, who has attained 
to the advanced age of eighty-six years, came to this section with his father, driving 
a team which hauled the household goods thither. When Daniel Cripe settled in 
this section, the land had not j'et been opened for settlement, and the Indians, who 
were plentiful but not warlike, used often to come to his home. He made a good 
farm of 200 acres on the prairie, and was the first man to preach the gospel of the 
Dunkard Church in northern Indiana. Throughout life he used the German lan- 
guage, and attained to the patriarchal age of eighty-eight years. Daniel Cripe, 
father of Benjamin, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, near Dayton, and was 
married to Sarah, daughter of Daniel and Susan (Miller) Ulery, to which union the 
following children were given: Lydia, Benjamin, Susan, Hannah, Elizabeth, Samuel 
(who died in childhood), Emanuel, Mary and Catherine. The three eldest children 
were born in Montgomery county, Ohio. In tlie fall of 1830 Daniel Cripe moved 
with his family to Elkhart county, Ind., and settled one mile south of Goshen, where 
he soon after entered 240 acres of land in Elkhart township, west of the river, where 
the farm of Joseph Yoder now lies. Daniel lived on his father's farm until 1839, 
then on the land west of the river, and with the help of his sons cleared up a farm 
from the timber which covered it, and lived here the rest of his life, dying when over 
four-score years of age, on December 25, 1885. He was born May 29, 1805; was a 
hard worker throughout his long life, and did his part toward bringing the county 
to its present state of civilization. He reared bis children to honorable manhood 
and womanhood, and under the protecting wing of the Dunkard Church, of which 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. G29 

he was a devout member the greater part of his life. He was successful as a tiller 
of the soil and was the owner of over 400 acres of land, which he acquired by energy 
and thrift, characteristics which he inherited from his worthy German ancestors. At 
the time of his death he had sixty-three grandchildren and ninety-three great-grand- 
children. Benjamin Cripe, his son, was born on his father's farm in Montgomery 
county, August 23, 1827, and was but three years of age when brought by his 
parents to Indiana, and in the old pioneer Fchools of this section he received some 
schooling, but the principal part of his early life was spent in following the plow 
and in assisting his father to clear the land, the trees being split into rails for fences. 
In this rough yet useful school he grew to manhood, and was then united in mar- 
riage to Catherine, daughter of Matthias and Catherine (Freese) Inbody, the former of 
whom was a Virginian and the first plow and wagcjn-maker in the county. He made 
the famous "Peacock " plow, which was well known to old settlers. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Benjamin Cripe have been born sis children who have lived: Nannah, Catherine, 
Daniel, Susan, Emanuel and Hiram. After his marriage Mr. Cripe settled west of 
Goshen about a mile and a half, on eighty acres of laud which his father gave him 
and which was in the timber. This land he cleared by hard work, and he gradually 
increased it until he now owns 200 acres of land. Mrs. Cripe is a member of the 
Dunkard Church, and politically Mr. Cripe is a Democrat. He has taken an active 
interest in educational affairs, and has been school director of his district. He now 
owns a good tract of ISO acres and is living in the enjoyment of the fruits of his 
early labors. 

Uriah Ch.vndler, Mishawaka, Ind. The bustling towns, thriving villages and 
cultivated farms of St. Joseph county, Ind., have so long been common objects to 
our sight, that it seems almost beyond belief that we have in our midst an honored 
citizen who was one of those hardy pioneers who saw this county when it was a 
primeval wilderness. At that time there were no settlements within its bounds 
except the tents of two Indian traders at South Bend and the rude wigwams of the 
Pottawattomie Indians. The name of this resident is Uriah Chandler, a descendant 
of English stock. His grandfather, Daniel Chandler, was a soldier in the Revolu- 
tionary war and fought the British at the battle of Bunker Hill. Later he became 
a pioneer of Kentucky and was a contemporary of Daniel Boone. Of his origin 
there is little known except that he came from the State of South Carolina, where 
he followed the trade of wheelwright, removing from there to Owen county, K}'. , 
where he lived for some years and later came to Jennings county, Ind., where he 
died at the age of seventy-tive or eighty years. He was the father of Braddock, 
Edward, George, William, Lucy, Elizabeth, Polly and Susan. Braddock Chandler, 
the father of our subject, was born in South Carolina about 1788, and went with his 
father to Kentucky when he was a young man, and there became an overseer on the 
estate of the great Kentucky statesman. Henry Clay. He married and was the 
father of nine children, as follows: Uriah, Fannie, Nancy, Sarah, John, Henry, 
William, Alfred and Mary. Braddock Chandler was a soldier in the War of 1812, 
fought with Gen. Harrison at the battle of Tippecanoe and became acquainted with 
the Indiana country. Soon after the war he made several trips to this part of 
Indiana. On October 2, 1829, he arrived with his family at La Porte, and here he 
remained until the next spring, and in 1830 moved to South Bend, where he lived 
for two years. About 1832 he settled in Penn township, and here he cleared up a 
small farm from the forest, but in 1850 he went to California, crossing the great 
plains. In 1851 he returned to this county, where he died the next January, at the 
age of sixty-two years. He was one of the original pioneer settlers of this county, 
living here when the Pottawattomie Indians were the principal occupants. He was 
a great hunter, and many deer, liears and wolves fell before the unerring aim of his 
rifle. In Kentucky he had many adventures with tlie Indians, but in Indiana, after 
the war was over, he had no further trouble. He was a typical American pioneer 
hunter and trapper. Physically he was a large, powerful man and had more edu- 



630 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

cation thaa was usual with men of his class, as he could " figure as far as the 
double rule of three. " Originally he was a member of the Free- Will Baptist Church, 
but in Indiana he and wife became members of the Methodist Church. The most of 
the old-time American pioneers have passed away. They were sturdy and fearless, 
inured to toil and privation and possessing an adventurous turn of mind, they were 
perpetually on the frontiers, leaving the scattered settlements in search of still newer 
countries, where they could still find game in plenty and homes where they would 
be untrammeled by the restraints of civilization. These men were the founders of 
new States, subdued the savage tribes, conquered the still more savage wilderness, 
reared their humble cabins and turned the virgin soil with their plowshares. The 
smoke from the chimney of their humble cabins was often the only guide through 
the wilderness to their clearings, but around their huge fireplaces, large families 
of healthy, happy children were gathered and these became the parents of the 
sons and daughters who now are the leading spirits in American civilization. 
Uriah Chandler was born August 16, 1816, on the Henry Clay estate, Ky., where 
his father was an overseer. He had no opportunity for gaining an education and 
at the age of thirteen years came to Indiana with his father, arriving as before 
stated, October 2, 1829. He then hired his time of his father until he was twenty- 
one years of age and engaged as an ox teamster at a saw-mill which was located two 
miles east of Michigan City, continuing in this employment for two years. During 
the first year he was sent to mill at Fort Wayne, Ind. , a distance of over one hundred 
miles through a trackless wilderness, if we may except the Indian paths extend- 
ing from point to point. Uriah was then but a little past fourteen years old 
and drove four yoke of oxen hitched to an enormous wagon, the wheels of which 
had a tread or width of tire of one foot. The character and trustworthiness of 
young Uriah is well illustrated by the fact that his employer gave him S125, with 
which to purchase wheat to have ground at the mill. The wagon and the eight 
head of oxen of his team were of considerable value. The country swarmed with 
Indians with whom there were always many white desperadoes, and that so young a 
lad should have so successfully completed a task fraught with so many difliculties, 
seems remarkable to us of this generation; but in the pioneer days, boys became 
men while j'et in their teens and the old annals of those times are full of instances 
of undertakings which would now be scarcely attempted by strong men, but were 
then accomplished by boys, in years. Uriah followed the Indian trails alone until 
he reached South Bend, thus accomplishing about one third of the journey. At 
night he would unyoke the cattle and they would browse upon the branches of the 
trees and the grass by the wayside, this constituting their sole food. After they 
had eaten sufficiently, they would come back to the wagon, and soon the little party 
would be sound asleep. At that time Uriah found at South Bend but two white 
men, Alexis Coquillard and Col. Lathrop M. Taylor, Indian traders. Both of them 
occupied tents, while the neighboring bottoms were covered with Indian wigwams. 
When young Uriah drove among them he asked for Col. Taylor, who received him 
kindly, gave him good advice about agreeing peacealily with the Indians, eating 
with them whatever they offered, sharing tobacco with them, and in all ways seek- 
ing to give these dangerous people no cause of offense. That night a wagon came 
in for furs, and by midnight was loaded ready to return to Fort AVayne. This gave 
Uriah company for the trip, and he left on his journey at the same time. At Wolf 
Lake they met a party of Indians and took supper with them, having dog and boiled 
corn for supper. Being hungry and remembering the advice of Col. Taylor, the 
visitors eat with a relish. This side of Fort Wayne Uriah bought of a farmer 125 
bushels of wheat for 37^ cents per bushel. On his arrival at the mill he found 
many teams ahead of him and was obliged to wait two weeks for his turn to 
come in grinding. He returned home safely by the same route, having 
consumed five weeks on this remarkable journey. He accounted honestly for 
all of the money with which he had been intrusted, and as his em- 



ME Mollis OF ISDIASA. 631 

plover had expected him to pay SI per bushel for the wheat, he had con- 
siderable money left. Two years after this be again drove to mill with four yoke of 
oxen, this time to the falls of the Kankakee Kiver and returned safely from that 
trip. For two years he accompanied a surveyor's party in Wisconsin, assisting in 
the State survey, but later returned to Indiana. He also worked as a boatman on 
the keel boats which for years were in use on the St. Joseph Eiver, Uriah " push- 
ing " on these boats for three seasons between Lake Michigan and Three Eivers. 
He then engaged in farm work, mostly on Portage Prairie, where he married, just 
before he was twenty-one years of age, May 5, 1836, Mary, daughter of William 
Hughes, a farmer and pioneer of St. Joseph county. He remained two years on 
Portage Prairie and then went to Marshall county, Ind., and two miles from 
Bremen, entered eighty acres of laud in the heavy timber. He remained there but 
one year, and then came to Mishawaka and assisted in the building of the present 
dam! Following this came a season of hard labor, chopping wood, teaming, etc., 
but about 1843 he settled on land in Penn township, consisting of 10(1 acres 
of heavy timber. This he cleared and made here a good home, living first in a log 
house which he found on the place, later building a comfortable franie house, barns, 
etc.. and there he principallv reared his family. His children are as follows: 
William B., born March 14, 1838: Elizabeth J., "born March 14, 1840; Sarah E., 
born October 25, 1842; Frances H., born November 20, 1844; Martha, born Octo- 
ber 6, 1846; John H., born February 23, 1849; Alfred, born January 28, 1851, and 
Uriah, born August 27, 1853. By industry and thrift Mr. Chandler added to his 
farm until he owned 300 acres, and beside this his residence in Mishawaka with one 
acre surrounding it. He has given his children sixty-seven acres of his land, retain- 
incr the remainder. Both Mr. and ]Mrs. Chandler were members of the Methodist 
Church, and he assisted with his means to build the Methodist Church in Misha- 
waka and has tilled the office of church trustee. Politically our subject is a stanch 
Eepabliean. At the opening of the Civil war he came into the town, living here 
for fifteen years, engaged in hauling wheat and flour, but then he returned to his 
home on the farm, remaining until three years since, when he returned to the town 
again, as he had retired from farming. Socially he is a member of the I. O. O. 
F. , having been a member of the old St. Joseph Lodge, the first one in Mishawaka. 
Mrs. Chandler died July 30. 1890. The children are married and settled, as 
follows: William B. married Alsie Hutchinson and has three children, is a 
farmer of Penn township, and is located two miles south of Mishawaka; Elizabeth 
J. married John Hutchinson, they have seven children and reside in this place; 
Sarah E. married Hugh Xoyes, they have four children and reside in Osceola; 
Frances H. married Martin Fulmer, they have three children and reside in Penn 
township, where he is a farmer; Martha married George Laughman. of South Bend, 
who is the treasurer and secretary of the Sandige Steel Skein Works, and has been 
mayor of South Bend; John H. married Martha J. Brelsford (deceased after four 
years of wedded life), he married again, in 1S7T, Yillie H. Perkins, and has two 
children (he is a farmer and resides in Mishawaka); Alfred married Effie Cole, has 
four children and resides in the same town; and Uriah married Mary Shearer, is a 
a farmer of Peun township and has one child. Thus Mr. Chandler has eight chil- 
dren, twenty four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He is now seventy- 
sis years of age and retains his faculties, although his life has been one of almost 
constant hard labor. Having had no education he had to make his hands and his 
natural shrewdness, combined with industry and perseverance make bis way in life. 
Besides bringing up a large family, he accumulated a handsome property, and suc- 
ceeded far better than many men of much betterchance in life. He always followed a 
straightforward course, and his many descendants can take an honest pride in the 
sturdy ancestry from which they have sprung. He has taken great interest in the 
Methodist Church and hewed the logs with which the First Methodist Church in 
South Bend was built, and his uncle, Alfred W'right, was one of the scorers. The 



632 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

father of Judge Stanfield had a brickyard, and his wife told young Chandler and 
otLers who were working there that a Methodist preacher was coming in three days 
from Sunday and suggested that they build a log church for him. This they did, the 
church being thirty feet square, of hewed logs, and was not only the first Methodist 
but the first Protestant Church in St. Joseph county. Among these men were 
found the now well-known names of John Eaton and William Magnus. The min- 
ister came and was pleased at the preparations which had been made and the meeting 
was attended for miles around. In 183 1 Mr. Chandler passed through Chicago on 
his way to AVisconsin, and relates that he found nothing but a whisky saloon and 
old Fort Dearborn. Many are the interesting reminiscences that this old pioneer 
can relate of days which must possess an interest for every American reader. 

Joseph Yoder is one of the prosperous and substantial farmers of Elkhart town- 
ship, and is well known as one of its best citizens. All his property has been ac- 
cumulated by honest toil and good management and he is now the owner of one of 
the best farms in his section. He comes of good old Pennsylvania Dutch stock and 
his grandparents, Joseph and Betsy (Speiker) Yoder, were natives of Somerset 
county, Penn. The grandfather was a distiller by occupation and was a wealthy 
and prosperous man. To his marriage were born the following children: Tobias, 
Jacob, Joseph, Lizzie, Isaac and Levi. Mr. and Mrs. Yoder lived to be quite 
aged people, the latter dying when nearly ninety years of age, and both held 
membership in the Amish Church. Their son, Isaac Y'^oder, was also born in 
Somerset county, Penn., and is now a substantial and prosperous farmer of that 
county, owning '2-40 acres of the best land. He is a man of education and 
is an excellent penman. In his choice of a wife he selected Miss Susan Mich- 
ler, daughter of Christian and Barbara (Eash) Michler, and five living children 
blessed this marriage, as follows: Joseph, Polly, Elizabeth, Barbara and Cath- 
erine. Mr. Yoder is still living and is about sixty-eight years of age. He is a 
member of the Amish Church and is an industrious, religious man, respected by 
all. His son, Joseph Yoder, subject of this sketch, was originally from Pennsyl- 
vania, born in Somerset county, August 14, 1847, and there received a fair common- 
school education. He learned farming when young and in 1867, when twenty years 
of age, he turned his face toward the setting sun, and subsequently found himself 
in Elkhart county, Ind. For some time he worked on a farm, but later returned to 
his home in Pennsylvania, where he remained until the next year. He selected 
his wife among Indiana's fair daughters and was married on the 11th of February, 
1868, to Miss Catherine Cripe, who was born January 26, 1847, and who is the 
daughter of Daniel and Sallie (Ulery) Cripe. Mr. and Mrs. Yoder are the parents 
of two living children: Sarah A., born April 10, 1869, and Frank E., born December 
1, 1882. After his marriage Mr. and Mrs. Yoder settled on the Daniel Cripe farm 
and have since made their home there. He is the owner of 181 acres, and all his 
farming operations are conducted in a thorough and systematic manner. He is a Re- 
publican in politics, and he and wife are worthy members of the Dunkard Church. 
His daughter, Sarah A., married David Gorsuch, a farmer of Harrison township, 
and one child is the result of this union, Mabel May. 

The foundation of the present Menuonite Publishing Company of Elkhart, Ind., 
was laid in the month of May, 1867, by John F. Funk, when he established a print- 
iuof office in the town, it being the second establishment of the kind to be founded 
therein. A sulwtantial three-story brick building had been erected about this time 
by Isaac Bucklen, the first floor of which he occupied as a drug store aud the front 
basement of this building, a room 20x30 feet, was rented by Mr. Funk and in it was 
placed about 1,200 pounds of type with necessary stands, cases etc., and a Taylor 
cylinder press propelled by hand power, the entire outfit coating about $2,500. 
This was the first cylinder press brought to the county and the first paper printed 
on the same was the Herald of Truth, for the month of May, 1867. Mr. Funk con- 
tinued this work until 1870, when he associated with him a brother, A. K. Funk, 




JIEJVRY J. caitP. 



MEMOinS OF IXDIASA. 635 

under the drm name of J. F. Funk & Bro. They thea began the publication of 
books, etc., also the Martyr s Mirror, a large octavo edition in German, consisting of 
971 pages, which was brought out in 1870 and was probablj* the largest volume ever 
published in Indiana at that time. In 1875 the Mennonite Publishing Company 
was incorporated, and since that time a business has been conducted of great mag- 
nitude. The company now has a building, 21x15-4 feet, with three floors and a 
basement, in which they have five presses, two paper cutters, folding machines and 
a first-class plant for doing all kinds of printing and binding. They employ about 
thirty-five hands and make noextravagant claims when they say that there is no better 
or more extensive office in northern Indiana. Seven papers are published with an ag- 
gregate circulation of not less than 30,000 copies per month, and Sunday-school 
lesson leaves increase the circulation to over -10,000 copies annually, besides which 
they publish an almanac which has an annual circulation of over 15,000 copies. 
Thev have published many books of different kinds, one of their largest and best 
being an English edition of Martyr's Mirror, a royal octavo, double-column volume 
of over 1. lOO pages illustrated, and requiring an outlay of §6,000. The entire busi- 
ness of the company is largely devoted to the work and interests of the Mennonite 
Church, although they also enjoy a large and lucrative jobbing trade. The com- 
pany is capitalized at §50,000 and has the following officers: John F. Funk, presi- 
dent; A. K. Funk, secretary and treasurer; Joseph Summers, vice-president; A. B. 
Kolb, Samuel Toder, Lewis Culp and John Martin, directors. John F. Funk, 
president of the Mennonite Publishing Company, was born in Hilltown, Bucks Co., 
Penn. , April tj, 1835. He worked on the farm and went to school in the winter 
until his nineteenth year, when he commenced teaching in his native township, and 
taught during the winter for three successive years. He also attended school at 
Freeland Seminary in the summers of 1855 and 1856. In the spring of 1857 he 
went to Chicago, 111., and engaged in the lumber business, in which he continued 
nine years. In the winter of I860 he became a member of the Mennonite Church 
at Line Lexington, Bucks Co., Penn. In January, 1864, he commenced, in Chi- 
cago, the publication of the Herald of Truth and Herold der Wahrheit, and 
on the 19th of the same mouth was married to Salome Kratz, daughter of 
Jacob Kratz of Hilltown, Bucks county, Penn. On the 28th of May, 1865. he was 
ordained to the ministry in the Mennonite Church, near Gardner, Dl. In April, 
1867, he removed from Chicago to Elkhart, Ind., and established the business house 
now known as the Mennonite Publishing Company, first under his own name and 
afterward under the firm name of John F. Funk & Bro. In 1875, when the Men- 
nonite Publishing Company was incorporated, he became its president and has ably 
filled that responsible position ever since. In the fall of 1892 he was elected a 
bishop in the Mennonite Church. Abraham K. Funk, secretary and treasurer of 
the company, was born in Hilltown, Bucks Co., Penn., January 20, 18-40. His 
youthful days were spent on his father's farm. He attended the district winter 
schools near his home a month or two during the summer, and at the age of 
eighteen years began teaching in the public schools of the county, after follow- 
ing which occupation for some time he entered the Freeland Seminary at 
Freeland (now Collegeville, Montgomery county), in 1859, and the Excelsior 
Normal Institute at Carversville, Bucks county, in 1861. After spending five 
years in farming during the summer seasons and teaching school during the win- 
ter months, he went to Chicago, 111., in the spring of 1863, and engaged in the 
lumber business, but after a residence of five years in that city he took up his 
abode in Elkhart, Ind., and entered into a co partnership with his brother as 
above stated. In 1875 he became one of the principal stockholders in the Men- 
nonite Publishing Company, and has since held the po-^itions of secretary and 
treasurer. He was married March 11, 1872, to Anna M. Landis, who was bom 
in Bucks county, Penn.. in October, 1840, a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Geil) 
Landis. and to their union the following children have been given: Mary M., 



636 PICTOUIAL AND BIOGEAPIIICAL 

Edna J. and Esther W. Mr. and Mrs. Fuuk are members of the Mennonite 
Church, and ia politics he is a Republican. He is a stockholder in the Garden 
City Stationery Company. 

Adam Raffenspergee. In tracing back the genealogy of the RafFensperger family 
it is found that two brothers of that name left the land of their birth, Gerniauy, and 
crossed to the United States at a very early date. Tradition has it that a large 
estate in Germany belongs to the heirs of this family. These brothers settled in 
York county, Penn., and there followed the trade of blacksmith. The grandfather 
of our subject, Josiah Raffensperger, was a descendant of one of these brothers. He 
married and reared a family, but only four of his children are remembered: George, 
Christian, Henry and Jeremiah; the last named was born in York county, Penn., and 
married Miss Nancy, daughter of Samuel and Hannah (Brown) Mummert. Mr. 
Mummert was a wagon-maker by trade, Ijut also owned a good farm in York county, 
Penn. He was a German Baptist in his religious belief. Eight children were born 
to bis marriage, as follows: Isaac, Richard, George, Nancy, Catherine, Rachel, 
Hanna, and one who died young. Mr. Mummert lived to be nearly eighty years 
of age and died in York county highly esteemed by all. To Mr. and Mrs. Jeremiah 
Raffensperger was born one child, Adam, our subject, whose birth occurred in Y'ork 
county, Penn. . November 23, 1832. The advantages of a common-school education 
were afforded him and at an early age he began learning the tailor's trade. When 
a few years older he gave this up and served an apprenticeship of three years at the 
blacksmith's trade, learning the trade thoroughly in that time. In 1853, when about 
twenty-one years of age, he came to Elkhart county, Ind., with a letter in introduc- 
tion from Joseph Beck, a friend living in his neighborhood who had married a sister 
of John Studebaker, the latter the founder of the wagon works of South Bend, Ind., 
and the father of the Studebaker Brothers. By means of this letter Mr. Raffen- 
sperger procured a situation in the blacksmith shop of the Studebakers. The busi- 
ness was then small and Clement and Henry Studebaker worked at the forge. Our 
subject remained with them for four months and then came to Goshen, Ind., where 
he worked at his trade for two months. He subsequently took up the carpenter's 
trade, soon became very skillful at this, and was engaged as contractor in Goshen. 
He erected many good buildings, among the most prominent being the English and 
German Methodist Churches of that city. He erected twenty-four bridges in Elkhart 
county, Ind., and sixteen school-houses, one of which is the school-house at White 
Pigeon, Mich. , which cost $16,400. He became well and widely known as a most relia- 
ble contractor and builder and had all the work he could attend to. On September 12, 
1858, Mr. Raffensperger married Miss Hettie Cripe, who was born March 17, 1841, 
and who was the daughter of Emanuel Cripe, one of the pioneer settlers. Following 
his marriage Mr. Raffensperger settled on the Emanuel Cripe farm and there 
remained for three years. In 1862 he came to his present farm, made many im- 
provements and resides on this at the present time. His marriage resulted in the 
birth of eight children, as follows: Catherine, born March 2, 1859; Lydia, born Octoljer 
12, 1862; Hattie, born December 24, 1864; Mary Ida, born February 15, 1867; 
Levi, born May 21, 1869; Emanuel, born August 6, 1872; Cora, born November 21, 
1875, and Samuel, born January 15, 1878. Mr. RafFensperger and his estimable 
wife are members of the German Baptist Church, and in politics he is a strong Dem- 
ocrat. He has given his children good practical educations and has every reason to 
be proud of them. His daughter Hattie for eight years has taught in the country 
schools; Catherine married Frank Miles, a farmer near Bristol, and is the mother of 
three children; Mary Ida married Christian Trager, a harness-maker, of South Bend, 
Ind. Mr. Raffensperger has a certain remedy for goiter which has cured many people 
of this unsightly and distressing disease. It is simple, no injury is done to the 
system, and he has cured the worst cases among the people of Elkhart county. 

Abraham I. Reed is one of the early pioneers of the county, and his tine farm 
speaks for itself as to his thrift and successful methods in his chosen calling. He 



3IEM0IRS OF INDIANA. 637 

claims Virgfiuia as his native State, and was born in Rockingham county, July 1, 
1818, being the eldest one of a family of seven children born to William S. and 
Christina (Wenger) Keed. Of these children live grew to mature years. William 
S. Reed was also a native of the Old Dominion, born in Fauquier, and reared in 
Rockingham county, and the son of Sanders and Julia (Hattield) Reed. The Reed 
family came originally from Ireland, and were early settlers of this country. William 
Reed followed agricultural pursuits in Virginia, on a farm of seventy acres, until 
1830, when lindiug that Ohio afforded great attractions, he emigrated to that State 
and settled in Columbiana county. He followed farming in that State until 1850, 
when he came to Indiana and took a farm in Uniou township, Elkhart county. He 
also bought a partly improved farm. On his farm in Union township Mr. Reed 
passed the remainder of his days, dying in 1874. He was one of the most promi- 
nent men in the township, held office at different times, and was postmaster at 
South West at an early day. All his life was passed in hard labor, but he made and 
left to his heirs a good property. Mr. Reed was twice married, first to a daughter 
of Joseph and Mary (Hoover) Wenger. Her parents died in Virginia, and Mrs. 
Reed died soon after coming to this country, December 20, 1850. She was sixty- 
five years of age, and left five children: Abraham, Margaret, Mary A., Harriet and 
Elizabeth. Besides there were two who died young. The five children above named 
are all living but one, Mary A. Blosser, died at the age of sixty years, in Union 
township, about six or seven years ago. One sister, Mrs. Good, has her home in 
Nappanee; Harriet and Elizabeth both live in Uniou township on farms. After 
his first wife's death Willliam Reed was married to the Widow Guinther, of Goshen, 
and two children were born to them: Daniel and Emeline. Mr. Reed's second wife 
has been dead for several years. Abraham Reed was twelve years of age when the 
family moved from Virginia to Ohio, and he was reared in the latter State. On 
March 20, 1845, he was wedded to Miss Mary Weaver, a native of Pennsylvania, 
born March 2, 1817, and the daughter of Samuel and Anna (Bowman) Weaver. Mr. 
and Mrs. Weaver were pioneers of Ohio, and both died in Columbiana county, Mrs. 
Weaver September 11, 1843, aged forty-nine years, and her husband nine years 
later at the age of sixty-eight years. Abraham Reed and wife lived in Ohio until 
1861, when they sold out and moved to Indiana, purchasing their present farm in 
Elkhart county. In 1851, while in the timber business in the Buckeye State, Mr. 
Reed met with an accident by which he lost his left leg. For forty years he has 
been engaged in agricultural pursuits without the use of that leg. and that, of course, 
has made his work much harder. He and his worthy companion have a good farm 
of eighty acres in Union township, and are highly respected members of the com- 
munity. They are conscientious Christians and active members of the Mennonite 
Church. In politics Mr. Reed has ever tieen a Republican. He is a man interested 
in the public good, and in his younger days was a teacher, following that profession 
for twelve years and teaching both English and German. Mr. Reed and wife have 
reared five sons and three daughters, as follows: Henry, born June 20, 1846, now 
resides on a dairy farm at Mi-shawaka; Noah, born October 7, 1847, is a farmer and 
is also engaged in the saw-mill business in Union township; Aaron, born December 
15, 1848. is a farmer and carpenter of Harrison township; Abraham, born February 
4, 1851, is a farmer of Union township; Elias, born July 27, 1855, resides in Ma- 
honing county, Ohio, near where he was born; Anna, born December 15, 1848, mar- 
ried Samuel Ramer and resides in Morgan county, Mo. ; Lydia, born December 12, 
1852, is also married to a Samuel Ramer. and resides on a farm in Union township, 
and Mary, married Joel Snyder and resides on the old home place. Mr. and 
Mrs. Reed have about thirty-five grandchildren. 

Rev. Benjamin F. Stdtsman. For many years the name of Mr. Stutsman has 
been inseparably linked with the religious history of Elkhart county, whose annals 
bear testimony to the integrity of his character and the brilliancy of his intellect. 
He is a descendant of one of the oldest pioneer families of tnis county, his grand- 



638 PICTORIAL AND BIOORAPHICAL 

father, Samuel Stutsman, having settled on Elkhart Prairie in 1832. The latter was 
born in Pennsylvania, near Johnstown, and was of German descent, his grandfather 
having emigrated from Germany to this country at an early day. In religious belief 
his ancestors were German Baptist Duukards. Samuel married a Miss Ulery and 
they were the parents of four children: Daniel, Susannah, Elizabeth and Jacob. 
Mr. Stutsman followed the occupation of a farmer and land owner in Pennsylvania 
for many years, but subsequently moved to Montgomery county, Ohio, and there 
resided until 1832, when he moved to Elkhart county, Ind., as aboved stated. He 
entered land on the prairie and added to this from time to time until he owned 300 
acres of excellent prairie land. Later he entered a large tract of woodland east of 
the prairie. He became a wealthy and substantial farmer and resided on this 
farm until his death, which occurred when he was seventy-four years of age. 
He and wife were members of the German Baptist Church and reared their children 
to that belief. During the early pioneer days Mr. Stutsman was a famous hunter 
and fisherman, and many a deer, bear and wild cat fell victims to his unerring aim. 
He was one of the original pioneers who assisted in founding the county, and made 
a good home in the wilderness. His son, Jacob Stutsman, was originally from Ohio, 
born in Montgomery county about 1814, and received a fair common-school educa- 
tion for his day. When eighteen years of age he came with his parents to this 
county, and made the journey with horse teams. He married Miss Hannah Stude- 
baker, daughter of Rev. Jacob Studebaker, and afterward settled on the old Stude- 
baker farm, consisting of 260 acres of tine land, which he had inherited from his 
father. On this he resided until fifty-four years of age, when he moved to Macoupin 
couutv. 111. . and bought a farm of 280 acres, on which he passed the remainder of his 
dars." He died when fifty six years of age. To Mr. and Mrs. Stutsman were born 
ten children: John, Samuel, Lydia. Henry, Benjamin. Susannah, Hannah, Valen- 
tine, David and Levi, all born on the homestead on Elkhart Prairie. Mr. Stutsman 
was' a devout member of the German Baptist Church and was a deacon in the same 
for many years. His wife was also an active member of that church. He was one of 
the founders of the Conservative German Baptist Church, and was one of the most 
liberal contributors to the church. He gave his children good educational ad- 
vantages and ever instilled into their minds the Christian religion. Nearly all be- 
came "members of the German Baptist Church. His son. Rev. Benjamin F. Stuts- 
man, was born May 2, 1846, on Elkhart Prairie, and in addition to a common-sehoo] 
education, attended Goshen College for three years. By his own efforts he fitted 
himself for the ministry and has given the principal part of his life to this noble 
•work. His marriage with Miss Cjarinda McCououghey, daughter of Alexander Mc- 
Cououo-hey, occurred February 27, 1868, and one living child blessed this union: 
Etta b" Mrs. Stutsman died October 24, 18(6, and December 29, 1880, Mr. Stuts- 
man married Miss Mary J. Dewey. Two children have been born to this union: 
Charles Noble, born January 5, 1883, and Sadee Irene, born May 13. 188*. In 
the spring of 1868 Mr. Stutsman went to the Sucker State, resided there three years 
and a halt and then returned to Elkhart county, where he has since resided. He 
owned ei^htv acres on the prairie and resided on this until 1S90, when he came to 
his present "farm. He has been a preacher in his church for twelve years, being 
ordained March, 1880, and since then he has carried on his ministerial duties in this 
county. In politics he is a Prohibitionist and Independent, and stands deservedly 
high among his people as a minister as well as a citizen. Mrs. Stutsman's great- 
grandfather, Noah Dewey, was from Vermont and of English descent. He was mar- 
ried in the Empire State" to Miss Hannah Wiggins and three children were born to 
them: Charles, Aaron and Jaue. Mr. Dewey was a shoemaker by trade and resided 
for many years in Preble county, Ohio, but finally came to Indiana and made his 
home with his son, Charles B.. iintil his death at the age of sixty years. Charles B. 
was the grandfather of Mrs. Stutsman, and was born, reared and educated in Preble 
county, Ohio. When a young man he taught school and was one of the early edu- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 639 

cators of the county. He was married in Ohio to Miss Marj- A. Benjamin, daugh- 
ter of Nathaniel and Hannah (Johnson) Benjamin, and seven children were born to 
them, as follows: Benjamin F., Henry C, Noah W.. Charles X., Hannah, and Sarah 
and Mary (twins). In 1842 Mr. Dewey came to Elkhart county, Ind., and settled 
on land which his father in-law, Nathaniel Benjamin, who was a substantial farmer 
of Preble county, Ohio, had entered for him. This land was covered with timber 
and Mr. Dewey cleared 160 acres and made a good home. He died in August, 
1862, when forty-live years of age. He was a substantial farmer and an honorable 
citizen. His son. Benjamin F. Dewey, brother of Mrs. Stutsman, was born Decem- 
ber 22, 1847, in Clinton township, this county, and received a common-school educa- 
tion. He married Miss Samantha Longcor, daughter of Silas Longcor, and three 
children were the result: Adella, J. M. and Warren. Mr. Dewey hasalsvays resided 
on the old homestead and now owns 213 acres of land. In politics he is a Repub- 
lican. 

A. B. Michael, a representative farmer and stockraiser of Elkhart count}', 
Ind., is like many of the citizens of the county, of German descent, and a man 
of much energy and ability. He was born in Elkhart county, Harri?on town- 
ship, December 30, 1853, and was the third in order of birth of nine childien born 
to the marriage of George Michael. The latter was horn in Germany in 1824, the 
son of Paul Michael, and was an early settler in Union township, Elkhart county, 
Ind., settling there as early as 1849. A. B. Michael, the subject of this sketch, 
passed his boyhood and youth on his father's farm in Harrison township, and received 
a limited education in the Bowser School, being obliged to assist his father on the 
farm at an early age. After his twenty-second birthday he married Miss Sarah 
^Yeber, a native of Locke township, Elkhart county, Ind., and the daughter of Jacob 
and Catherine (Weber) Weber, the latter still living. Mrs. Michael was born Janu- 
ary 11, 1858, and was reared in Locke township. Her people were among the 
pioneers of the county. After marriage Mr. Michael started out to fight life's 
battles for himself on the place where he now lives, which then consisted of eighty 
acres of partiallv improved land. There were no buildings on this, and it was 
nearly all covered with woods. He cleared most of this, erected a tine residence 
at a cost of $2,U00, and put up other buildings. In 1891 he added another 
eighty to this land and now has a Sne farm, all well fenced, and with the best 
improvements on it. He is engaged in general farming and stockraising and raises 
much grain. As a farmer and stockraiser he has been unusually successful and has 
accumulated a comfortable fortune. In political belief Mr. Michael is a stanch 
Democrat and a public-spirited young man, being interested in every enterprise that 
has for its object the growth and prosperity of the county. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Michael have been born three children, as follows: Minnie, born July 30, 1878, and 
died when but one month old; Myrtie, born July 2, 1880, and Mervin (a boy), 
born February 15, 1885. Mrs. Michael is a member of the German Baptist Church. 
Mr. and Mrs. Michael are worthy citizens of the county and are universally respected. 
Jacob Weber (father of Mrs. A. B. Michael) was born in Germany on February 
22, 1830. In 1835 he came to this country with his parents and located in Ohio. 
In 1851 he was married to Catherine Weber and moved to Indiana with his family 
in 1855. He was a private in Company E, Thirteenth Regiment In.iiana Volun- 
teers, and died May 16, 1865, in South Carolina, while engaged in the patriotic dis- 
charge of his duty to his adopted country. Catherine Weber, wife of Jacob Weber, 
and mother of Mrs. A. B. Michael, was born in Germany on November 26, 1832. In 
1836 she came with her parents to this country, and in 1851 was married to Jacob 
Weber, with whom she came in 1855 to Indiana, and at present resides at Nap- 
panee. To Mr. and Mrs. Weber have been born eight children, as follows: Eliza- 
beth, born November 12, 1852; Catherine, born November 29, 1853; Barbara, 
born April 24, 1856; Sarah, born Januarv 11, 1858; Susan, born Juue 30, 1859; 
Mary, born March 9, 1861 (died February 19, 1888); Infant, born December 22, 
1862, and died March, 1863, John, born March 3, 1864. 



640 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Charles G. Towle is one of the prominent old settlers of St. Joseph county, 
Ind., and has been identified with its growth and prosperity. He inherits Irish 
blood of his ancestors, for his grandparents came from the Isle of Erin and took 
up their residence in the State of New Hampshire, John Towle, the grandfather, 
being a soldier in the War of 1812. His son, Gilman Towle, the father of Charles 
G., was born in the Granite State in 1808, was given the advantages of a common- 
school education, and in his youth learned the tanner's trade, at which he worked 
after his removal to western New York with his mother, his father having died 
when he was but four years of age. He successfully followed his line of work in 
Brockport, N. Y., and was there married to Miss Magdaline Beekman, by whom 
he became the father of two children: Charles G. and Henry S. In 1837, with 
the desire to better his financial circumstances, he removed to St. Joseph county, 
Ind., and opeoed up a mercantile establishment in Mishawaka, but gave up this 
business in 1842, although he had met with good success, and moved on to a 
farm one and one-half miles north of the town. He was a man of great dis- 
criminatioD, possessed very practical and intelligent views and for twenty-four years 
he acted in the capacity of county commissioner and town trustee. At first an old 
line Whig in politics, he afterward became a Republican, and during the war was a 
very strong Union man. He was a man of great energy, in every respect self-made, 
and possessed the confidence of the citizens of St. Joseph ccmnty to a marked degree. 
He lived to the ripe old age of eighty-three years, dying in 1888, respected and 
esteemed by all who knew him. In 1856 he retired from farming and the remainder 
of his days were passed in Mishawaka. His wife was a member of the Methodist 
Church. Charles G. Towle owes his nativity to Brockport, N. Y. , where he first 
saw the light on the 28th of September, 1832. At about the age of five he was 
brought by his parents to Mishawaka, Ind., and in the common district schools in 
the vicinity of his home he obtained a practical education, in the meantime becom- 
ing thoroughly versed in the details of farming. In 1856 he chose for his com- 
panion through life Lucy Doolittle, daughter of Hiram Doolittle, an old pioneer 
settler of the township from the State of New York, he having been a farmer in the 
vicinity of Lockport. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Towle has resulted in the birth of 
three children: Herbert, Carrie and Mary, the eldest of whom married Anna Beam, 
and died at the age of thirty-one years, leaving two children. After his marriage 
Mr. Towle resided on the home farm until 1877, when he became a citizen of 
Mishawaka and from 1878 to 1887 he held the position of county commissioner 
and for seven years was also town trustee, discharging the duties of these offices 
in a highly satisfactory manner and very much to his credit. He has always 
supported the measures of the Republican party, is highly regarded in Misha- 
waka as a public-spirited citizen and has also an enviable reputation throughout the 
county. 

Solomon Pepple, the fifth in order of birth of ten children born to William and 
Nancy (Wademan) Pepple, first saw the light of day on his father's farm in De Kalb 
county, Ind., January 1, 1858. William Pepple was born in the Buckeye State in 
1815, and his wife was a native of Pennsylvania. They were married in the former 
State and made their home there until 1860, when they came to this State. After a 
two years' residence in De Kalb county they moved to Elkhart county and settled on 
the farm where they now live. In connection with agricultural pursuits Mr. Pepple 
ran a threshing machine for twenty years. He is a good business man and has 
accumulated a good property. In his political affiliations he is a Republican, and a 
public-spirited citizen. At one time he was a member of the Lutheran Church. 
When he first came to Elkhart county Mr. Pepple was among the early settlers, and 
located on a partly improved farm in Union township. He now has 160 acres of as 
good land as any in the township, and is prosperous and contented. Only four of 
the following children born to them are now living: William, who died at the age of 
twenty-one; Albert, a farmer of Noble county, Ind. ; Katie, wife of Noah Reed, died 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 641 

in August, 1892; Delarma, married and followed faiminif in Noble county until his 
death; Harry, died at the age of sixteen; Solomon (subject); Lizzie, wife of D. C. 
Reed, of Chicago; Hiram, at home, single; David, and Daniel, who died young. 

Solomon Pepple was only a child when the family moved to this county, and his 
youthful days were passed in assisting on the farm and in attending the district school, 
his principal schooling being during the winter mouths. On account of the many 
duties on the farm, his educational advantages were limited, but he possessed a nat- 
urally bright mind, and by reading and observation has become one of the well- 
posted men of the county. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-one 
years of age, when he married and started out to make his own way in life as a tiller 
of the soil. He first farmed the old home place, and was fairly successful until 
1886, when he bought the old Miller farm, which he has resided on since. This is 
one of the oldest settled farms in the county, and was taken as Government land by 
Mr. David Miller. Mr. Pepple is its second owner. He has 160 acres of good land, 
100 acres under cultivation, and the remainder in good timber. He has made a 
complete success as an agriculturist, and besides his own quarter section of land 
has charge of 100 acres belonging to his father. Our subject selected his wife in 
the person of Miss Malinda Miller, and three children were given them: Clyde, born 
May 23, 1881, and died December 15 of the same year; Mervin, born April 9, 1883, 
and Mary, born March 22, 1886. Mrs. Pepple was the daughter of Daniel Miller. 
She died in the year 1887, and in her death a good and true woman passed to her 
reward. On September 18, 1889, Mr. Pepper married Miss Elmira Rahrer, who 
was born January 27, 1869, and who was the eighth in order of birth of twelve 
children, all but two now living, born to Joseph and Harriet (Mawyer) Kabrer. 
She was reared in Harrison township at the old home place of her parents, who 
were early pioneers of the county, and received her education in the school at South 
West. Mr. Pepple is devoting all his time to general farming, and is authority on 
all subjects relating to his occupation. 

David Conrad is an energetic and enlightened farmer of Union township, Elk- 
hart Co. , Ind. , and is the owner, all told, of 1 70 acres, nearly all of which is improved, 
fourteen acres of which is heavily covered with timber. Eighty acres comprise the 
home farm. Mr. Conrad was born on his father's farm in Jackson township, Elk- 
hart county, March 12, 1846, the eldest of four children born to Solomon and Mary 
(Whitehead) Conrad, but he and his brother John were the only ones reared. The 
father was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, December 31, 1823, and was a son of 
Adam Conrad, who was born in Virginia, but was an early pioneer of Ohio, in 
Tuscarawas county, later in Wayne county, Ind., and still later in Illinois, paying 
the last debt of nature in McLean county in 1869. His wife died some years before 
in Indiana. They had a family of twelve or thirteen children in all, and only three 
sons. Solomon, William and George, all of whom married and reared families. 
Adam Conrad was probably a Whig at an early day, but later turned Republican. 
He was a farmer of moderate circumstances. Solomon Conrad was born in Ohio, 
came to Indiana with his father. He was left motherless at about the age of sixteen 
years and his father married again. At that time Solomon started to do for him- 
self as a farm hand and rail splitter, but upon attaining his majority he went to 
Montgomery county, Ohio, and was there united in marriage to Miss Mary White- 
head, who was a native of that county, born January 18, 1824, a daughter of Valen- 
tine and Mary Whitehead. This family was originally from Pennsylvania, and was 
among the first to settle in Ohio, from which section Valentine Whitehead emigrated 
to Elkhart county, Ind., when quite aged, and here passed from life at the age of 
eighty-three years, his wife's death having occurred in Ohio. All their children 
grew to mature years, married and reared families. After the marriage of Solomon 
and Mary (Whitehead) Conrad they started west in the old-time emigrant wagon, 
their sole property consisting of their team and wagon, a few household effects end 
$14 in money. They settled on an eighty-acre farm in Jackson township, Elkhart 



642 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

county, which Mrs. Conrad's father had entered, and built thereon a log cabin, 
after which thej' at once set to work to improve the place. On that farm Mr. Con- 
rad resided until his death, December 8, 1883. In church matters he was always 
ready to lend a helping hand, in fact, all worthy enterprises found in him a hearty 
supporter. He was well posted on the current topics of the da)', and the principles 
of the Democratic party recommended themselves to bis excellent judgment, and by 
that party he was elected to a number of positions of trust in Jackson township. 
His thrift and industry won him good returns, he acquired valuable property, and 
throughout his life manifested great interest in his home. He was conscientious and 
public spirited and a valuable and useful citizen. From the age of sixteen years he 
had to depend upon his own resources, so with truth may be called a self-made man. 
His wife died at her home in Jackson township November 2, 1886. For twentytive 
years before her death she was a member of the German Baptist Church, and up to 
the time of her death was a true helpmate to her husband. She bore her husband 
four children: David, born March 12, 1846; John, born Januarj' 13, 1849, who now 
lives in Union township, a farmer and a man of family; Susan, born June 7, 1851, 
and died December 1, 1852, and Sarah E., born June 2, 1854, and died September 
24, 1854. Mrs. Coniad was a noble mother to her children and in every respect a 
true Christian and a considerate and generous neighbor. David Conrad, her son, 
attended the home school and also several terms of the Goshen High School, and 
received a good practical business education. He taught one winter term of schoo 
in Union township with good success, and until he attained his majority assisted his 
father on the home farm, after which he went to Illinois and spent several months. 
He then returned to Indiana and married Irene Wyland, who was born in Miami 
county, Ohio, May 26, 1845, being one of eleven children reared by Daniel and 
Margaret (Howard) Wyland, who moved to that section from Pennsylvania, their 
marriage taking place iu Greene county, where the mother was reared, although she 
was born in Maryland. After the celebration of their union they settled in Miami 
countv, Ohio, where all their children were born, the youngest being five years of 
age at the time of their removal to Indiana in 1850. They took up their residence 
on a farm in Jackson township, Elkhart county, where they lived for a number of 
years, later moving to Concord township, where the father paid the last debt of 
nature in 1882. The mother had died in 1865, both being worthy members of the 
German Baptist Church. The father was a Democrat and a well to-do farmer. His 
children are as follows: Mary A., wife of Owen Cromer, of Troy, Ohio; Susanna, 
wife of Simon Miller, of Milford, Kosciusko county; George, who is married and 
lives in Shelby county, Ohio; Jane, who is the wife of Thomas Yates, of Goshen; 
Harriet, who is the wife of Henry Yates, of Kosciusko county; Catherine, who was 
the wife of George Wertz, of Oregon, but who died in 1884, leaving one child; 
Margaret, the widow of John Schreckengaust, who was a soldier in the Civil war, 
lost two children; Moses, a resident of Jackson township; John, who also resides 
there; Irene, the wife of David Conrad; and Elizabeth, who is the wife of John 
Whitehead, of Jackson township. After his marriage Mr. Conrad became a resident 
of the farm on which he now lives, which be has greatly improved and nicely cleared. 
It is one of the neatest and best kept places in the county and the buildings are 
exceptionally fine. There are in all 170 acres which he is tilling, and in addition to 
this much of his time is devoted to the raising of a good grade of stock, for he has 
found it a congenial and profitable business. He is well known as a prominent 
member of the Democratic party, and for twenty years has held the ofiSce of township 
assessor. He is interested in church, school and public matters generally, and 
socially is a member of the American and State Horticultural Society. Mr. Conrad 
has been successful as a financier and is considered an exceptionally good judge of 
stock. He has been a prosperous lumberman, and in this branch of business has 
made much of his money. He and his wife have a family of five children: William, 
who was born September 29, 1868, lives on the farm in Jackson township and is 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIAyA. 643 

married to Rose Weaver, a daughter of David Weaver a pioneer of Union township 
(iu politics William is a Democrat); George B., wbo is now in Dakota, but makes his 
home with his father, was born July 31, 1870, and is also a Democrat; Mary E., 
bom April "28, 1873, is si ill at home; Leroy A. was born March 20, 1880: and Delta 
Hazel, January 31, 18S5. Mr. Conrad has traveled a great deal throughout the 
United States and has made the most of what he has seen and heard, and can 
recount his experiences in a graphic and pleasing manner. 

John H. Karick. This gentleman, whose residence is in Elkhart township, is a 
prominent farmer, stockraiser and horse breeder, and his fine farm, attests by its 
thrift and productiveness, the excellent qualities of thoroughness and system which 
mark the owner. He inherits all his iudustry and enterprise from his German 
ancestors, no doubt, and is progressive and thoroughgoing in a marked degree. 
His father, John Rarick, was bom in Pennsylvania and was married in that State 
to Miss Barbara Heater. Ten children were the fruits of this union: Elizabeth, 
Catherine, Mary, Nancy, Sallie. Eliza. George, John, Eli and Noah. At an early 
date Mr. John H. Rarick moved to Montgomery county, Ohio, and was engaged in 
tilling the soil there until 1S4S, when he moved to Elkhart county, Ind., settling 
four miles west of Goshen. He became the owner of a good farm and resided on 
the same the remainder of his days, dying when seventy-two years of age. He was 
a Lutheran in his religious belief and a man universally respected. His father was 
a native of Maryland and was a saddler by trade. Our subject was born in Mont- 
gomery county, Ohio, December 23, 1818. and had but a limited common-school 
education in the old subscription schools of his day. He was reared on a farm and 
married Miss Esther Kritzer, who was born on the 27th of September. 1825, and 
who was a daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Baisler) Kritzer. Nine children were 
born to our subject and wife as follows: Noah, bom September 24. 1852; Caroline, 
born February 8, 1853; Catherine, born May 3, 1856; Mary, born October 3, 1857; 
George, born February 21, 1859: Jonathan, born June 25, 1862; Martha, born 
October 8, 1863; Sarah, born June 14, 1865; and Hariet, born June 7, 1867. Our 
subject had a brother, Noah, who served in the Civil war and was killed at the battle 
of Vieksburg, and he named his eldest son after this brother. Soon after marriage, 
or in 1845, Mr. Rarick moved to Elkhart county and settled on eightj' acres of wild 
land, covered with heavy timber in Harrison township. He began at once to improve 
and clear his farm, and after many years of hard work and great industry he cleared 
up a good farm. To the original tract he added from time to time until he owned 
300 acres. In 1880 Mr. Rarick moved to his present farm, consisting of seventy- 
four acres, but still owns the original tract in Harrison township and eighty acres in 
Union township, making 554 acres in all. He has been engaged extensively in the 
raising of horses, keeping at one time three Belgian stallions, costing §6,000. He 
sold two of them and now keeps one weighing 1,800 pounds, an imported horse and one 
of the best iu the county. Mr. Rarick is a self-made man and owes all his prosper- 
ity to his own exertions and those of his excellent wife. He is one of the wealthy 
and influential men of his section and has made all his property by economy and 
self denial. He has been honorable and upright in all his dealings and stands high 
in the estimation of all as a citizen and neighbor. Both he and wife hold member- 
ship in the Lutheran Church, and he was at one time elder in the same. In 
politics he advocates the principles of the Democratic party. His daughter. Caroline, 
married John Searer, a farmer of Elkhart county; Mary married George Neterer, a 
farmer of Elkhart township, and is the mother of three children; Catherine married 
Erias Snyder, a farmer of Elkhart county, and has four children; and Martha mar- 
ried Abraham Searer, a farmer of Harrison township, and has two children. 

James M. Latta. His earliest known ancestor was an Irish nobleman whose es- 
tates were near Donegal, Ireland. William, his son, emigrated to America in 1740 
and settled first in New Jersey, subsequently in Westmoreland county, Penn. He 
served during the Revolution in Morgan's cavalry. Robert, his fourth son, was 



644 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

born in Greensburg, Westmoreland Co., Penn., April 28, 1773, and married Isabella 
Johnstou, an aunt of the governor of that State, on April 28, 1792, and emigrated to 
Champaign county, Ohio, where his family of four sons and four daughters were 
born and raised. In 1830 he visited Indiana and bought 6, -400 acres of land in the 
now famous Haw Patch region, lying in Noble and La Grange counties. He was a 
man of warm impulses, a great student with remarkable executive ability, which was 
illustrated by his colonizing his vast purchase of land, by selecting one or more 
young manied men of almost every profession and trade (excluding the legal pro- 
fession) and presenting each of them with a deed to eighty acres of this land on con- 
dition they emigrate with him and live on the land, thereby surrounding himself 
with a completed community from the start. He did not neglect the ministry, for 
which he erected a church building at his own cost, also a school-house. The wis- 
dom of his selection was shown in the fact that not one abandoned his trust. He 
was the arbitrator in all disputes, and none thought of an appeal to the courts from 
his decision. He also held scholarships in the leading institutions of learning of 
the State which he dedicated to the use of the children of his colony — excluding his 
own grandchildren. He was a man of very distinguished appearance, being six feet 
four inches in height and weighing 300 pounds, straight as an arrow, temperate in 
all things but his temper, with smooth shaven face of sublime benignity, pink-white 
complexion and clear grey eyes. After living twenty-six years on the laud he settled, 
and witnessing the fruition of his cherished plans, he died April 28, 1859. His wife 
survived him many years and died at the age of eighty-seven years. They were 
both members of the Methodist Church. He was an ardent Whig in politics. Will- 
iam, his second son, was born November 6, 1801, died November 6, 1847. He 
married November 26, 1826, Matilda Prudence Layton, of Clark county, Ohio, and 
in 1828 emigrated to Elkhart county, Ind. ,and settled on the land on which he 
died, now the home of the subject of this sketch. He was judge of probate for a 
number of years, a director and vice-president of the State Bank, was one of the 
prime movers in projecting what is now known as the Lake Shore & Michigan South- 
ern Railroad and its tirst president, and contributed largely to the earlv development 
of the country. He was a member of the Methodist Church, and in politics a Whig. 
He was a man of good business judgment and at the time of his death was con- 
sidered one of the wealthiest men in the county. His wife suiTived him many years, 
dying in 1872. They had a family of eleven children. The subject of this sketch 
was the second son, born July 4, 1833. His youth was spent at hard work on the 
farm. After receiving an academic education he entered the law school at Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y. , and later Harvard University, after which he began practicing law at 
Goshen. Ind. , in partnership with James M. Defree. On the breaking out of the war 
of the Rebellion he was appointed legal adviser of the Tax Commission of Florida, 
which position he held for three years. He was also the civil provost marshal of Geor- 
gia, South Carolina and Florida during most of that time. On September 22, 1864, he 
married Elizabeth Potter Jack, of Greensburg, Penn., whose father served many 
years in the lower house of Congress, as also on the bench, and whose grandfather 
was an officer in the Revolutionary war. It was a singular incident bis selecting his 
wife from the town in which his grandfather was born more than ninety years pre- 
vious. After the war he located in Washington, D. C.,in the practice of his pro- 
fession, but soon became interested in real estate, to which he subsequently devoted 
his entire attention with conspicuous success. He bought the old homestead and 
has added to it in area and improvements until it is the finest country seat in north- 
ern Indiana, known as "Fairlawu."' His energy and enterprise have been far- 
reaching, having furnished the entire wooden material for 550 miles of the Atlantic 
& Pacific Railroad in New Mexico and Arizona, supplying horses for the United 
States Government for the war in Utah; owns extensive cattle ranches in New Mex- 
ico, a business block in the heart of Kansas City, Mo., and very valuable pieces of 
property in Chicago; is the chief owner, and for some time president, of the Gas 



MEilOIRS OF INDIANA. 645 

Companj- of Albuquerque, N. M. ; president of the Muskegon Machine &: Foundry 
Company of Michigan; president of the City National Bank of Goshen; president of 
the Pottawattomie Club; president of the Gas Company and of the Citizens Electric 
Company; was one of the founders of the Ariel Bycicle Company, and its first presi- 
dent, etc. He has always been a Republican in politics, never very active and never 
held a political office. In 1873 he visited Europe as a special commissioner to the 
Vienna Exposition. After spending fourteen j'ears in Washington he moved to 
Boston, where he spent six j-ears in educating his family. Mr. Latta has been sig- 
nally successful in all his business enterprises and very happy in his domestic relations, 
to which he now devotes most of his time. He has a family of five sons and one 
daughter. The benefactions of his wife and himself, especially to the Episcopal 
Church, have been conspicuous, not alone in Goshen, where his wife gave the ground 
and built the beautiful parsonage at a cost of §4,500 and liquidated most of the 
debt of the church, but in other places and in many ways. 

Dr. J. B. Gkee.ne is a successful follower of JEsculapius at Mishawaka, and 
through ability and well-merited success he has built up a practice that is eminently 
satisfactory. He was bom in what is now Fremont, Ohio, on the site of old Ft. 
Stevenson, May 29, 1843, a son of John L. and Maria E. (Du Comb) Greene, the 
former a native of St. Lawrence county, Ohio, and the latter of French descent. 
This family is related to the famous Gen. Nathaniel Greene, of Revolutionary fame, 
and also to Eleazer Greene, who was a captain in the continental army during that war. 
The paternal grandfather was a soldier in the War of ]812. The grandfather re- 
moved from New York to Ohio in 1S16, taking with him a man by the name of Abra- 
ham Garfield and a woman named Mary Ballou. They settled in Cuyahoga county, 
where Mr. Garfield and Miss Ballou were afterward married and became the par- 
ents of James A. Garfield, the murdered President. Mr. Greene purchased 240 
acres of land bounded on the north by Lake Erie, on the west by Cuyahoga River 
and on the south by what is now Superior street, Cleveland. This tract of land he 
afterward sold for §1,000 and was very glad to get that price, but at the present time 
it is worth millions of dollars. He then removed to what was known as the Black 
Swamp in Sandusky county, Ohio, where he lived until his death in 1863. His wife 
was a Miss Lynde, daughter of Capt. Lynde, who was captured by the Algierians and 
held as a slave until released by Commodore Perry. The wife of Mr. Lynde was a 
sister of Benjamin Franklin. The maternal grandfather of Dr. J. B. Greene was 
a sea captain and was the first American sea captain to run the British blockade into 
Philadelphia in 1812. His wife was a daughter of Christopher Irik, and was de- 
scended from the famous Stuart family of Scotland, and was on the vessel that con- 
veyed Prince Charlie, immortalized in history and song, across the water. John L. 
Greene, the father of Dr. Greene, was for many years common pleas judge of the 
Fourth Judicial Circuit of Ohio: was a State senator and L'nited States commis- 
sioner and held other prominent and well-merited positions. After a career of useful- 
ness he died in 1879. His widow died on her seventy-fifth birthday in 1889. They 
reared their twelve children to maturity, and although two are now deceased they 
lived to be over forty years of age: Daniel, who was a soldier in the Mexican war, 
resides in Arkansas City, Kan., and is sixty-two years of age: Charles is a resident 
of the State of Washington: Frances E. (Graves) resides in Grand Rapids, Mich.; 
Louise S. (Hntson) is a resident of Belleville, Ohio: John L. lives in Fremont, Ohio, 
is judge of the Fourth Judicial Circuit; Minnie D. (Butman), of Fremont, Ohio; 
George S. (deceased); Dr. J. B. ; Yincent D. is superintendent of the Electric Light 
system of Toledo, Ohio; F. L. (deceased) was president of the constitutional conven- 
tion of Montana and also of Oklahoma, died at the residence of Dr. Greene in 1890; 
M. S. is a resident of Anaconda, Mont. ; and Margaret (Turck) is a resident of 
Denver. The subject of this sketch was brought up iu Fremont, Ohio, and at the 
early age of thirteen years, his father being unfortunate in financial matters, he was 
thrown upon his own resources. He began working for a man by the name of Louis 



646 PICTORIAL AND BIOGUAPIIICAL 

Leppelman, a wholesale jeweler and clock dealer of Fremont, Ohio, but received 
scarcely anything but his board as compensation. During the three years that he 
remained thus employed his nights were spent in hard study, for under the able in- 
struction of Dr. J. B. Kice, now deceased, he began the study of medicine. In 
February, 1863, he enlisted in Company F, Third Ohio Cavalry, and was soon pro- 
moted to hospital steward. In 1804, after the battle of Nashville, he was made 
acting second assistant surgeon and in 1865 was commissioned surgeon of the One 
Hundred and Thirty-seventh United States Colored Infantry, but did not accept the 
position. He retired from the service in November, 1865, and at once returned to 
the Cleveland Medical College, from which he graduated in February, 1867. He 
then came directly to St. Joseph couuty, Ind., and after nine months' practice in Wood- 
land, he took up his residence in Mishawaka, being now the third eldest practitioner, 
in point of residence in the county. He has been remarkably successful as a healer 
of the sick, and has ever commanded a large patronage. In 1874 he was nominated 
for the position of county recorder, but was defeated. On various occasions he has 
been proffered offices of different kinds, but has always respectfully declined, as the 
turmoil and contention of the political arena had no charms for him. In 1889- 
90 he was medical director of the G. A.R., department of Indiana, and has been chair- 
man of congressional and county conventions many times. The Doctor is a strong Re- 
publican and has always been an active worker for his party. In 1890 he graduated 
from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and at present 
is a member of the St. Joseph Medical Society, the Indiana State Medical So- 
ciety, the American Medical Association and is also an honorary member of the 
Illinois State Medical Association, the Michigan State Medical Association, the 
Mississippi Valley Medical Society and a fellow of the American Electro Ther- 
apeutical Association. He is a contributor to a great many medical journals, and 
keeps thoroughly apace with the progress made in the medical world. For the 
last six years his practice has been confined almost exclusively to diseases of the pel- 
vis and abdomen, and up to date he counts 132 laparotomies with l)ut ten deaths. 
He has made special calls into California, Montana, Georgia, Washington City, Ohio, 
Michigan and Canada, which serves to show that his reputation is not merely local. 
He has done some very delicate work in the city of Chicago, and has been offered 
eminent positions in different institutions throughout the country, but has invariably 
refused them. In January, 1868, he was married in Mishawaka to Miss Mary E. 
Hagey, by vehom he has three living children: Philip D. Marie R. and Grace. 
Emma died in infancy. The Doctor is a member of the G. A. R. , the A. F. & A. 
M. , the K. O. T. M. , is examining surgeon in the latter organization, also for the 
Catholic Knights of America and several insurance companies. In the brief outline 
here given it has been difficult to describe the Doctor's character. The lights and 
shades can be understood only by those who come in contact with the man un- 
der various circumstances. It is also difficult to point out the exact traits to which 
he owes success. Tenacity of purpose has certainly been one of his most distin- 
guishing traits. Despite obstacles which to many would seem insurmountable, he 
pushed his undertakings to a successful issue, and success crowned his efforts. He 
is eminently the type of the progressive American citizen, and has won the friend- 
ship of all who know Ijim either in a professional or social way. 

Samdel Mover is a real estate dealer and treasurer of the Electric Galvanic Belt 
Company, of Elkhart, enjoys the highest of reputations for honorable methods and 
sterling integrity, and is greatly aided in maintaining that high standard of financial 
probity for which the real estate market of the place is noted. He was born in Ash- 
land county, Ohio, October 2, 1842, to Daniel and Catherine (Swartz) Mover, native 
Pennsylvanians, who were of German ancestry. The paternal grandfather, Samuel 
Moyer, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and by occupation was a farmer, a 
calling he followed in Pennsylvania until his death. Samuel Moyer was born in 1770 
in Bucks county, Penn., was married to Sophrana Sechler, 1792. Their union was 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. G47 

blessed with ten children. In 1819 his wife died, and in 1821 he emigrated 1o But- 
ler county, Penn, with his family. He was again married, to Susan Boyer, and had 
three children. In 1851 he died at the age of eighty-one years. The names of his 
chiklren are: Debora, who married David Shauer, and had six children; Benjamin, 
who married Mary Boyer, and had eight children; Sarah, who married George 
Boyer, and had fifteen chiklren; Samuel, who married July Ann Rice, and had 
eighteen children: Catherine, who married Abraham Tinsman, and had eleven chil- 
dren; Jacob, who married Lyda Shauer, and had sixteen children; Abraham, who 
married Martha Trausue, and had eight children; Mary, who married Samuel 
Boyer, and had six children; Elizabeth, who married AVilliam Lutz, and had nine 
children; Daniel, who married Catherine Swartz, and had five children; Joseph, who 
married Rebecca Rice, and had four children; Susau, who married Henry Bixler and 
had four children; Nancy, who married David Bookwalter, and had three children. 
Daniel Moyer followed in his worthy father's footsteps, and throughout life tilled 
the soil, an occupatiou he found congenial and therefore profitable. He removed 
with his family by wagon to Ashland county, Ohio, where they remained until 1848, 
when they packed their household goods and started overland to Elkhart county, 
lad., where they purchased an eighty-acre tract of land, for which $12 per acre 
was paid. This acreage he afterward greatly increased, and became the owner of a 
large amount of land. In 1864 he started to Canada on a ministerial trip, being an 
earnest and eloquent minister of the Mennonite Church, but was killed in a railroad 
accident near Hillsdale, Mich. His widow died in 1884. having borne him five 
chiklren, four of whom are living: William, Samuel, Daniel and David. Samuel 
was but six years of age when he came to Elkhart county, and in his early life 
became inured to hard labor on the farm. He continued to follow the plow until 
1882, having for fifteen years prit)r to this time been a resident of Cass county, 
Mich. At the above mentioned date the city of Elkhart became his home, and for 
three or four years he di.'^charged the duties of street commissioner. In the spring 
of 1892 he, with E. P. Willard, embarked in the real estate business, which they 
still successfully carry on. He is the owner of considerable town ]iroperty, and they 
are also joint proprietors in one of the most wonderful inventions of the age — that of 
an electric belt, an account of which will be found in another part of this work. As a 
real estate dealer Mr. Moyer is thoroughly posted in his locality, and has a complete 
and intimate knowledge of ever}' section, and those contemplating the purchase of 
property can fully rely upon his sound judgment and judicious advice to secure the 
most desirable and remunerative investments. In March, 1865, he was married to 
Miss Maria I. Funk, by whom he has one child living whose name is Mason and a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Edwin W. Kinnison. In tracing back the ancestors of the Kiunison family we 
find that the great-grandfather of our subject, Charles Kinnison, came originally 
from England and settled in Pocahontas county, W. Va., where he became an ex- 
tensive land owner. He was married in this country to Miss Mattie Day and seven 
children were born to this union as follows: David, Amos, Nathaniel, Mark, Mattie 
and two not rememliered. Mr. Kiunison followed agricultural pursuits in West 
Virginia, cleared a farm, and became the owner of 2,(tOO acres of land. He was a 
soldier in the War of 1812, and was engaged in the secret service in a battle with the 
Indians at West Point. His sons cleared up tracks from the 2,000 acres owned by 
Mr. Kinnison, and became prosperous citizens. Mr. Kinnison lived to l)e seventy- 
eight years of age and was one of the old-time pioneers of West Virginia, and an 
early member of the Masonic fraternity. His son, Mark Kinnison, the grandfather 
of our subject, was born in West Virginia, and there secured but a limited education. 
He was married to Miss Nancy Davis, daughter of William Davis (who was a near 
relative to Jefferson Davis) and Priscilla (Grimes) Davis. The Davis family is of 
Welsh ancestry. To Mark Kinnison and wife were born eight children: Davis, 
Charles, Mark, Archibald, Hiram, Ruth, Elizabeth and Nancy. Mr. Kinni-son settled 



648 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

on a part of his father's farm in Pocahontas county. W. Va., cleared this and made 
a good farm. In November, 1833, he came to the Hoosier State; settled at Haw- 
patch, La Grange county, where he remained one year, and then came to the farm 
now occupied by our subject. This was all wild land at that time, and Mr. 
Kinnison cleared up a good farm of eighty acres, assisted by his sons especially 
Hiram. He lived to be seventy-seven years of age and was a member of the Meth- 
odist Church. In politics he was a Democrat and an Abolitionist. He was a hard- 
working, pioneer citizen and was universally esteemed. His son, Archibald Kinnison, 
father of subject, was born in West Virginia and was but a boy when he came to 
Benton township, Elkhart county with his father. The pioneer schools of those days 
afforded him a limited education, reading, writing and spelling, but most of his time 
was spent in assisting his father on the farm. After reaching man's estate, he 
married Miss Charlotta Wood, daughter of Niah Wood, one of the pioneers of 
Noble county Ind., and a descendant of one of the colonial families. His father 
was colonel in the Revolutionary war. Mr. and Mrs. Archibald Kinnison settled 
on land now owned and occupied by our subject soon after their marriage, 
and to the original tract added from time to time until they became the owners of 
160 acres. Mr. Kinni.son cleared this farm and became one of the most substanitial 
farmers and stockraisers of his section, all the result of industry and good manage- 
ment on his part. He and John D. Elsea introduced the first herd of Durham Short 
Horn cattle in the county and in other ways he has contributed to the advance- 
ment of the county. He visited Europe in 1878, traveled through the countries of 
France, Germany, Switzerland and England. He ever attended strictly to business 
and never cared to hold office of any kind. The first church built in the township 
received liberal contributions at his hands and he was ever active in all good work. 
He died on his farm when sixty-seven years of age, and gave each of his sons $4,000 
in cash. He was a man whose uprightness and honesty were above reproach and 
whose career would serve as an example to all. He was the father of four children: 
George, James, Edwin and Willis. The third in order of birth of these children, 
Edwin W. Kinnison, is a native of this county, born April 25, 1852, and like the 
average farmer's boy, his time in youth was divided between attending the common 
school and in learning to work on the farm. In selecting a companion for life he 
chose Miss Tillie F. Brown, daughter of William and Mary (Bean) Brown, and one 
child, Edith, who was born May 11, 1881, has blessed this union. After marriage 
Mr. and Mrs. Kinnison settled on the home farm, where our subject was born and 
which has been in the hands of the family for nearly forty years, and they are now 
the owners of 230 acres of land. Mr. Kinnison is a practical farmer and stock- 
raiser and is one of the prosperous young tillers of the soil in the county. In 
politics he supports the Republican party. His brother George was in the Civil war 
and served in an Indiana regiment. Our subject is a genial, well-posted man, is 
deservedly popular, and capable of hoildng any office in the gift of the people of 
his countv. In the year 1892 he was elected county commissioner of his county. 

The Hawks Family. The name of Hawks is well and favorably known all over 
northern Indiana, for it has been intimately associated with the commercial interests 
of that section for more than sixty years, and is the synonym of honesty, industry 
and business integrity. Sturdy Scotch blood flows in the veins of these worthy 
people, who were early colonial settlers of this country. Cephas and Chloe (Case) 
Hawks were of Scotch ancestry, and were worthy and exemplary people. The occu- 
pation of the former was mainly that of milling, although he was a farmer, trader 
and speculator. In 1827 many settlers of western New York were attracted to 
the central portion of Michigan, and in that year Mr. Hawks moved to that State, 
locating at Ypsilanti, Washtenaw county, which then gave promise of being an im- 
portant city, as it was a thriving village. Here Mr. Hawks acquired consider- 
able means in buying and selling cattle, in fact, he was a wealthy man when he and 
his son Cephas visited Indiana on a prospecting tour in 1835, and in the vicinity of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 649 

Middlebury be purchased a 200-acre tract of land. He was so favorably impressed 
with Indiana that he moved thither in 1836, and having much faith in the eventual 
prosperity of Waterford, he invested his means in several lines of business ealcuhited 
to make that place a prosperous town. He purchased a mill at that point in 1837, 
and continued the business of milling for some years under the tirm name of C. 
Hawks & Sons, the latter of whom inherited, as well as his grandsons, many of his ex- 
cellent business characteristics. Mr. and Mrs. Hawks reared six sous and two 
daughters to manhood and womanhood, only three of whom are living: Cephas, 
Joel P. aud Mrs. Hitchcock. The family was born in the following order: Frank, 
Albert, Dwight, Cephas, Eleazar, Joel P., Eliza, Calista, Sarah and Mary. Cephas 
Hawks who was named in honor of his worthy father, was born in Phelps, Ontario 
Co., N. y., December 8, 1812, and consequently is now over eighty years of age. 
Soon after the settlement of the family in the county, Cephas and his brother Elea- 
zar became associated with their father in the milling business, the name of the firm 
being C. Hawks & Co., and about 1840 they purchased their father's interest in the 
same, which they successfully operated for many years. His education was acquired 
in the common schools of New York and Michigan, and was of a practical and use- 
ful order. He was trained to a business life by his father, and as he and his broth- 
ers were full of life and vim in their young manhood, they were successful in their 
business affairs, and were among the leaders in the popular sports of those days. In 
1855 Cephas and Eleazar opened a hardware business in Goshen, and in 1865 the 
hardware and dry goods business were joined together, to which a grocery business 
was added. Three years later the milling business was moved from Waterford to 
Goshen, and in addition to this, the tirm in 1873, began the manufacture of furniture 
which has since grown to be one of the leading industries in northern Indiana. 
Their milling business has also increased very much, and is the leading industry of 
that kind for miles around. They do a custom and general merchant milling busi- 
ness, and their different brands of flour are favorably known to all the merchants and 
consumers in many counties in northern Indiana. In 1865 P. C. Messick was taken 
into the firm, its style then being Hawks Bros. & Co. In 1854 Joel P. Hawks, who 
had just returned from a trip to the then new gold fields of California, was admitted as 
a partner in the business, and in 1859 the large three-story block on Lincoln avenue, 
then Market street, was built, and there the Hawkses have done an extensive mercan- 
tile business ever since. From the beginning of the Waterford enterprises to the 
present time the Hawkses have been extensively engaged in the purchase of grain, a 
great portion of that time being the principal buyers in the county, and at least 
since the advent in Goshen, until within the last few years, Cephas has been at the 
head of that branch of the business, and owing to their large transactions, Goshen 
has held a high position as a grain market. Mr. Hawks was always of a practical 
turn of mind, was the first to propose the hydraulic canal, and during the early 
period of its inception advocated it earnestly and persistently; in reality was its 
chief promoter. After it was finally decided upon and a company organized, he re- 
ceived the contract for its construction, and although it met with some natural oppo- 
sition, it has without doubt been of incalculable benefit to Goshen. The youthful 
days of Cephas Hawks were spent in hard labor, and although he had decided to ob- 
tain a thorough classical education, he was prevented from so doing by being affected 
with inflammation of the eyes for several years. The practical education he had 
previously acquired was increased and broadened by much desultory reading, and by 
close observation of men and events, and he became one of the best informed busi- 
ness men of the northern part of the State. January 28, 1841, he was united in 
marriage with Miss Dalinda B. Bliss, who was born in Vermont, March 17, 1817, a 
daughter of Dr. Ezra Bliss, of Middlebury, Ind., and to their union the following 
children were given: Calista C, wife of JohnGortner of Goshen; Frank E. C, who 
lives in Goshen and has charge of thegi'ist-mills; Eveline N., who died in childhood; 
Mary E., married C. N. Hatch and is deceased; Edwin W., who has charge of the 



650 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

furniture manufactory, and Harriet G., who died in childhood. Cephas Hawks 
was first a Whig, but is now a Republican. Although a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church in early life, he has been a Presbyterian since he came to Goshen, 
of which his wife, who died October 30, 1892, was also a member. She was well 
born, of sturdy, godly New England blood. She had a good mind, well trained in 
the schools of Vermont and Massachusetts. A child of the covenant, she was earlv 
converted, and at the age of eighteen years, consecrating her life to God's service, 
she united with the Presbyterian Church. As a woman, she was modest of her 
abilities and self-depreciating. She loved flowers and all things beautiful, as well as 
good books and good people. As a neighbor she was kind and obliging, and very 
helpful, a friend of the poor and the sick, visiting them in their affliction, bringing 
always a bright face, cheering words and a helping hand. She was a warm- 
hearted, faithful and sympathizing friend, full of charity, and was active in the serv- 
ices of the church, the prayer meetings, the ladies' prayer circle, and the missionary 
work with which she maintained an active connection to the end of her life. 
Eleazar Hawks, brother of Cephas, was born in Phelps, Ontario Co., N. Y., Decem- 
ber 24, 1818, and in 1862 was married to Jennie L. GofF, who was born in New 
York, February 13, 1832. The following children were born to them: Frank W., 
born October 16, 1864; Grace L., born March 30, 1868, and died May 19, 1891, 
and a child that died in infancy. Eleazar Hawks died May 26, 1891. Frank W., 
his eldest son, attended the public schools of Goshen, and in the fall of 1884, entered 
the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, from which he graduated in 1889, taking 
the degree of Ph. B. Since his father's death he has taken his place in Isusiness, 
and manages a hardware stock of about §18,000. Joel P. Hawks, another brother 
of Cephas, was born in Ontario county, N. Y., February 9, 1822, and in 1852 went 
overland with an ox train to California via the North Pass. He had been in poor 
health for a number of years, and during his stay of three years on the coast his 
health was restored, but like the mass who went to that Eldorado he did not make 
a fortune. He returned home in 1855, via the Isthmus and New Orleans, and soon 
afterward became associated with his brothers Cephas and Eleazar, the firm being 
known as C, E. & J. P. Hawks. Since then he has been connected with his broth- 
ers in many of their business ventures, and also manages in a successful manner 
some independent ones. He was married August 8, 1844 to Miss Sarah J. Brown, 
who was born in Genesse county, N. Y. , June 9, 1844. There were born to them 
two sons: Dwight and Joel P., Jr., and four daughters: Alice and Minnie, deceased; 
Emma, wife of D. Mayberry, and Mabel. Frank E. C. Hawks, son of Cephas Hawks, 
was born in the village of \Vaterford, lud., in November, 1847, and the rudiments 
of his education was acquired in a log school house which is still standing, although 
it has been boarded over so as not to be recognizable, it being replaced by a sub- 
stantial brick edifice. After a thorough preparation in the common schools, he en- 
tered Northwestern University at Evanston, 111., where he remained until 1864, 
when he enlisted in the army at the call of President Lincoln for one hundred-day 
volunteers, and was mustered into the One-Hundred and Thirty-fourth Regiment 
Illinois Infantry, and after seeing a good deal of camp life without any hard fighting, 
be was mustered out in the fall of that year. At the age of nineteen he entered the 
counting room of Hawks Bros. & Co. as head book-keeper, and this very responsible 
position he filled ably and faithfully for seventeen years. In 1883 he became one of 
the incorporators of the Goshen Milling Company, and at present he fills the position 
of secretary and treasurer, and is fourth owner of the plant and business. By vir- 
tue of his oiSce he is the business manager of the establishment, and it is in a great 
measure owing to his push and business tactics that it has attained the rank of the 
leading grain buying and flouring concern in Indiana. Edwin W. Hawks, second 
son of Cephas Hawks was born in Waterford, Ind., November 9, 1851. After a 
course in the high schools of Goshen, he went to Evanston, for a time to the univer- 
sity there, returned, and was in the Hawks hardware store for a short time. This 




yf'^jhsu^^^ 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 653 

position he left, to take cbarge of the Hawks Furniture Company, in which he was 
interested. Under his careful management, this has grown to be one of the largest 
of the kind in the State. Dwight H. Hawks, son of Joel P. Hawks, is one of the 
most progressive business men of Goshen, and is prominently connected with the 
drug trade of the county. He is a gentleman in all that the wor<l implies, of integ- 
rity unimpeachable, and a pharmacist of wide repute. His establishment is largely 
patronized and is a popiilar place of resort. George D., son of an elder brother of 
Cephas, Frank Hawks, is connected with the milling intere.sts of the Hawkses at Go- 
shen, and is a shrewd man of affairs. William Hawks, son of another brother, Al- 
bert, is in the extensive dry goods house of the Hawkses in Goshen, and like all the 
members of the family, is a practical and successful business man. 

Mrs. Laura A. Kindig, widow of Joseph L. Kindig, is a lady of far more than 
ordinary executive ability, has become widely known for the push and enterprise she 
has shown, for her interest in the building up of the town of Goshen, for the deep 
interest she manifests in the welfare of the Baptist Church, of which she has long 
been a worthy member and to which she is a most liberal contributor, and for her 
natural kindness of heart and numerous noble impulses. She is a daughter of 
Joseph Dickson Knox, one of the earliest settlers of Elkhart county, who was born 
in Monroe county, W. Va., October 18, 1807, his parents being John L. and Nancy 
(Dickson) Knox. The remote ancestors were Irish, were United Presbyterians in 
religious belief, and on account of their religion left their native country and 
founded a colony in West Virginia. The Knoxes and Dicksons possessed all the 
sterling qualities that distinguished the Protestant people of North Ireland and 
Scotland. John L. Knox always pursued the calling of a farmer, and to him and 
his wife were born a good old-fashioned family of fifteen children, Joseph D. being 
the second child, and he and a sister are the only members of the family now living. 
The former was brought up to hard work, and the only education that he secured 
was obtained by a few weeks' attendance during the winter months in the old-time 
subscription schools. He began serving an apprenticeship at the blacksmith's trade 
at the age of nineteen years, and, being a natural mechanic, became an expert in 
the business, but low wages and slave labor led him to seek a permanent location 
elsewhere. In the summer of 1881 he started for the North on horseback, and in 
October of the same year landed at Goshen, Ind. , where he decided to locate. Here 
he opened a blacksmith shop and continued to work at his trade for nearly half a 
century. The ground on which his shop was erected is still in his possession and 
cost him, originally, $16, and as it was the first piece of real estate which he ever 
owned, he expects to keep it in his possession during his lifetime. He was a live 
business man, and by hard work and close economy has become possessed of a well- 
improved farm of 240 acres, near Goshen, besides other valuable property. He was 
married to Miss Margaret Walker, a native of Ross county, Ohio, and to them were 
born the following children: Henry (who died in 1845), Laura A. (Mrs. Kindig), 
Mary F. (Mrs. Hale, an amiable, intelligent and kind-hearted lady, residing in 
Goshen), and John G. John G. Knox was born in Goshen November 3, 1847, and 
was reared and educated in the town of his birth. He began life for himself by 
working iu a jewelry store, which he followed in connection with the hat and cap 
trade for twelve years. At the end of ti)at time he took an interest in his present 
business — the manufacture of furniture — making a specialty of elegant extension 
tables, the firm being known as Nash, Kuos & Hubbell. He is a progressive and 
worthy citizen, and in conducting his business affairs has been very successful. He 
was married to Miss Mary P. Widner, on September 6, 1870. and to their union four 
children have been given: Edwin L., Joseph W., Florence M. and an infant. 
John G. Knox is a Repul)lican and a member of the Presbyterian Church. His 
mother died on November 9, 1878, having been a most estimable and exemplary 
lady, a devoted wife and mother, and an earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. Mr. Knox, the father, has never identified himself with any of the 

38 



654 PICTORIAL AND BIOGBAPHICAL 

religious or secret societies, but has always led a moral aud exemplary life. He is 
remarkably well preserved, both mentally and physically, aud shows but little the 
ravages of time. Prior to 1850 he was a Democrat, but since that time he has 
acted aud voted with the Republican party. In all his actions in life he has been 
noted for his honesty, integrity, freedom from vanity, and for his opposition to 
ostentation. He is one of the oldest aud liest known of Elkhart county's early set- 
tlers, and in the love and respect of his children and a large circle of friends he is 
passing a serene old age. His daughter, Laura A., was married in 1857 to Joseph 
L. Kindig, who was born in York county, Penn., September 21, 1830, his parents 
being Joseph and Salime Kindig, native Pennsylvanians, who spent their lives on 
the old homestead in the "Keystone" State. Joseph L. was brought up to a 
knowledge of farm life, but received a better education than the average youth of 
his day, for he uot ouly attended the common schools, but was also a student in 
Litez Academy and York County Academy. He became a resident of Goshen, Ind., 
in 1854, and the same year engaged in the mercantile business. Being a man of 
far more than average ability, and possessing keen commercial instincts, his worldly 
possessions continued to increase, and at the date of his untimely death he left a 
fine property to his widow. At that time he was engaged quite extensively in the 
erection of business buildings in the town, and after his death his widow bravely 
stepped to the helm and began carrying out the work he had so substantially inaugu- 
rated. He was public spirited and progressive, keenly alive to his own interests and 
the good of his section, and, in all probability, did as much as any one citizen to 
buiki up and make the town of Goshen what it is to-day. His loss was deeply felt 
in the community as well as by his sorrowing widow, who found some solace in car- 
rying out his last wishes. She is a woman of rare executive ability, is far-seeing, 
prudent and cautious, and in her charities has been the soul of generosity, her con- 
tributions to her church being liberal in the extreme and at all times bestowed in 
a proper and intelligent manner and where they will readily accomplish the desired 
object. She is interested in all enterprises tending to build up the moral, religious 
and social condition of her section, and her good works will live long after she has 
passed away. She bore her husband two children, both of whom are deceased. 

Dr. Julius E. Barbour. There are men, and the number is by no means small, 
who drift into what we are accustomed to look upon as the learned profession in 
the same way that thousands of meu in the lower walks of life drift into the ordi- 
nary bread-winning occupations. Having no special preference for any calling, and 
without feeling that they have any particular fitness for a certain profession, they 
find themselves drifting in that direction as a result of associations or environment, 
and in the course of time they find themselves shouldering responsibilities for which 
they have scant liking, carrying burdens which rest heavily upon them, and laboring in 
a field which has for them no attraction other than what it yields in the way of annual 
incomes. The prominent physician whose name heads this sketch impresses even 
those who meet him in a casual way as a man who has drifted easily and naturally 
into the medical profession, who realizes he has made no mistake in the choice of his 
vocation, and feels thoroughly at home in the position which he occupies. This 
first impression deepens with a more intimate acquaintance, and familiarity with his 
life leads to the unbiased and impartial view that the unusual success he has 
achieved is the logical sequence of talent rightly used, together with energy and in- 
dustry never misapplied. The Doctor has practiced his profession in Elkhart county, 
and has been a resident of the town of Bristol for the past sixteen years. He owes 
his nativity to Michigan, his birth occurring October 26, 1849, and is one in a family 
of six children, three sons and three daughters (there being two sets of twins in 
this number), born to the marriage of Loren A. and Elizabeth (Arnold) Barbour, 
natives of New York State. When young the father and mother emigrated with 
their respective families to Michigan, and were among the very first settlers. The 
grandfather of Loren A. Barbour was a native of England. The great-grandfather 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 655 

was an Eaglisli gentleman and was a manufacturer of cloth goods. His son, settling 
early in New York, was the progenitor of this family. He died in New York State, 
leaving a large family of children. Among them was Harry Barbour, who married 
Miss Polly Gillespie, of Irish descent. About the year 1821 this young couple 
emigrated to Michigan, and as that State was then almost a complete wilderness, 
they experienced all the hardships and privations of pioneer settlers. Mr. Barbour 
bought a large tract of land near and on the present site of Romeo, which he farmed 
the greater part of his life, and here reared a large family of children. He and 
wife lived to be quite aged people, nearly one hundred years old, and were univer- 
sally esteemed. The wife of Loren A. Barbour was a sister of the Rev. J. M. 
Arnold, who founded the '• Alichigan Christian Advocate," of Detroit, and also a 
sister of William Arnold. This family is well known throughout Michigan. In 
1855 Loren A. Barbour passed away. He was one of the first daguerreotype artists 
in Michigan, which he followed to a considerable extent. He was also a storekeeper, 
and early in life tilled the soil. His death left a widow and six children. The 
former survived him until 1889, when she died at Minneapolis. She lies buried 
with her people and by the side of her husband at Mt. Vernon, Mich. The names 
of the children born to this worthy couple are as follows: Joseph H. and Josephine 
(twins), Mary A., Julius E. and Julia P. (twins), and Loren A. The first named is 
a baaker at San Diego, Cal., and is a prominent man in that State; the second is 
the wife of F. H. Revell, a publisher of Chicago; the third named is single and 
resides at San Jose, Cal., and is a well-known writer and lecturer on the subject of 
temperance; Julia P. is the wife of Dr. H. W. Brazie, of Minneapolis, who formerly 
practiced medicine at Bristol; Loren A., a chemist of Chicago. At the early age 
of six years Dr. J. E. Barbour was left without a father. With his uncle, William 
Arnold, he went to La Peer county, Mich., at that age. The country was then an 
almost unbroken wilderness, and there he finished his growth amid his rude sur- 
roundings and experienced the trials incident to early settlers. Indians were more 
plentiful than whites, and schools and churches were unknown. After remaining 
there until twelve years of age he returned to Romeo and worked at farming 
until the breaking out of the Rebellion. Just at the age when children should be 
in the school-room and under the protecting care of parents, young Barbour's 
patriotism manifested itself. In November, 1862, he enlisted as a private in Company 
A, Ninth Michigan Volunteer Infantry at Coldwater. They were ordered to Louis- 
ville, Ky. , and from there to re-enforce Gen. Thomas at Nashville. Their first 
actual war experience was at the battle of Stone River, where Company A lost 
nearly one half of its number as prisoners. Young Barbour was not among the 
number. He continued on with his regiment to Chattanooga, participating in all 
its encounters, and at last took part in the great battle of Missionary Ridge. After 
remaining cooped up at Chattanooga and being nearly starved to death they were 
finally re-enforced, and then continued on that world-famed campaign to Atlanta, 
during which the battles of Buzzard Roost, Kenesaw Mountain, etc., and the 
siege of Atlanta occurred. Upon the reduction of Atlanta, Mr. Barbour's regiment 
was ordered back to check Hood's threatened invasion of the North. Participating 
in the battles of Franklin and Nashville, the military career of the boys in blue 
closed. Mr. Barbour was honorably discharged at Jackson, Mich., in the fall of 
1865. Immediately after this betook a preparatory course of schooling at Pontiac, 
to fit himself for the higher school of medicine. Then taking a course of lectures 
in the Homoeopathic School (Detroit Homceopathic College), he took his second term 
of lectures in the regular school of medicine of the University of Michigan. The fol- 
lowing year he entered the Cleveland, Ohio, Homoeopathic Hospital College, from 
which he graduated February 14, 1874. Coming direct to Bristol he located and 
has ever since lived and practiced medicine here. His first six years' practice was 
in pirtaership with his brother in-law. Dr. Brazie, but since then he has practiced 
alone. Dr. Barbour was married in 1879 to Miss Emma A. Rheinehart. who was 



656 PICTOllIAL AND BlOGHAPllIGAL 

one of a family of fourteen children, ten daughters and two sous living to mature 
years. To Dr. and Mrs. Barbour have been born three children: Harry A., Mabel 
E. and William H. He and wife and children are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. He is a Republican in politics and has held the office of county 
coroner, township trustee, etc. Socially he is a member of the G. A. R., the I. O. 
O. F., the A. F. & A. M., K. P. and the order of Chosen Friends. From the 
beginning of his medical career Dr. Barbour has had an extensive practice which 
steadily increased, reaching all over the surrounding country. Being a thorough 
student of chemistry, as well as a physician, he compounded a number of remedies 
which attained a wide sale and reputation. In fact his practice as a physician and 
his manufacturing interests as a chemist, became so extensive and commanded so 
much of his attention that his health failed under the strain, and at one time his 
life was despaired of. Upon recovery it was necessary that he abandon such hard 
work, which he accordingly did. His attention now is almost wholly engaged by his 
practice as a physician. 

John S. Juday. Among the old, intelligent and representative families of this 
part of Indiana is the one of which our subject is a descendant, and in tracing back 
the genealogy of the family we find that the ancestors came originally from Eng- 
land. John Juday and his wife Catherine were born on British soil about the mid- 
dle of the eighteenth century, and about the year 1771 came to America and settled 
in New England. Their son Henry was born in Washington county, Md., May 15, 
1772, and about 1800 the latter married ElizaV)eth Delkert, who was born in Rock- 
ingham county, Va. , May 28, 1782. After marriage they resided in Greenbrier 
county, W. Va. , and there three children were born: a daughter, Catherine, and two 
sons, John and David. lu 1810 they left the Old Dominion and-setttedTu Preble 
county, Ohio, where five more children were born: Solomao, Jacob, Sarah, Balser 
and Adam. The father and mother with their chilxlren, John, David, Balser and 
Adam, moved from Ohio to Elkhart county, Ind., in October, 1836, and the father 
died in this county May 11, 1849, when seventy-six years, eleven months and twenty- 
six days old. The mother died in the same county on September 15, 184tj, aged 
sixty-four years, three months and seventeen days. The following is the record of 
the eight children residing in this county: Cathewfiewas born in Greenbrier county, 
VV. Va., April 21, 1802; married Michael Ott in Preble county, Ohio, about the 
year 1823, and the following year moved to Elkhart county, Ind., where her death 
occurred on June 23, 1863, at the age of sixty-one years two months and two days. 
To her marriage were born eight children: Elizabeth, Abraham, William, Susanna, 
Sarah, Daniel. Mahala and an infant. J.e^aJuday was born in Greenbrier county, 
W. Va. , November 18, 1805, and married SuslTtina Rookstool in Preble county, Ohio, 
December 23, 1832. He and his wife moved to Elkhart county, Ind., in October, 
1836, and his death occurred in Syracuse, Kosciusko county, May 19, 1887. when 
eighty-one years six months and one day old. Ten children were born to tliem as 
follows: Henry, Alfred, Elizabeth, John, Adam, George, Amanda, Thomas, Benja- 
min and Samuel. The father of these children setiled in the woods of Benton 
township and cleared up a farm of 200 acres. He was a member of the Uinted 
Brethren Church, and a most worthy citizen. Solomon^was-bani^ixuPj^bl© county, 
Ohio, August 9, 1810, and was married in the same county to Miss Elizabeth Gris- 
son January 1, 182&.- They moved to Elkhart county, Ind., and he died in that 
county Augu-st 9, 1880, when seventy years of age. To his marriage were born these 
children: Sarah, John, Mary A., Milton, Adam, Rebecca, Catherine, Susanna, Louis, 
Emma and James. Jacob Juday was born in Preble county, Ohio, May 14, 1812, 
and was married in the'same county about 1S35 to Miss Mary A. Rex. He moved 
to Elkhart county. Ind., in June, 1838, and died in that county June 28, 1863. when 
aged fifty-one years one month and fourteen days. Nine children were born to 
them, viz.: Eliz^ibeth. Nancy, Catherine, John, Franklin, Delilah, Nathaniel, an in- 
fant son, and Isabella. Saiafe Juday was born in Preble county May 15, 1815, and 



MEMOIliS OF INDIANA. 657 

was married in tbe same county to John Weutz in 1835. In 1806 she and her bus- 
band moved to Elkhart county, and there her death occurred on February 27. 1882, 
aged sixty-six years nine months and twelve days. To them were born seven 
children: Henry, Catherine, Sarah, Jacob, Elizabeth, Mary and Martha. BalsGr_ 
Juday was born in Preble county. June 23, 1818, and moved to Elkhart county, Ind., 
with his parents in October, 1836. He married Miss Anna Price, April, 1843, and 
his second marriage was to Miss Elizabeth Helsel in 1848. His death occurred in 
Elkhart county, Ind., March 14, 1883, aged sixty-four years eight mouths and 
twenty-one days. He was the father of twelve children: Matilda, Henry, Nelson, 
Jane. Ellen, James, Thomas, Ira, John, Amanda, Chauncy and Ida. Adam Juday 
was born in Preble county October 3, 1823, and moved with his parents to Elkhart 
county, Ind., in October, 1836. He was married to Miss Magdalina Ebert June 28, 
1848, and to them were born ten children: Vandaline, Marion, Noah, Sabina. Ellen, 
Alice, Emma, Wesley, Alonzo and Milton. Solomon Juday, son of Henry Juday, 
and father of our subject, was born.juVirginia and moved to Ohio at an early day, 
settling with his father in Preble coimty! He married Miss Elizabeth Grisson, and 
the children born to this union are mentioned above. For sis or seven years after 
marriage Solomon Juday resided in Ohio, but he came to Elkhart count}', Ind., in 
the fall of 1835 and settled in Benton township. He cleared up a good farm of 
nearly 182 acres, and at one time owned 260 acres. However, he sold eighty acres 
of this, but still had a fine farm left. He was one of the most esteemed citizens of 
the county, and no man stood better in the estimation of all. His son, John S. 
Juday, subject of this sketch, was born on a farm in Preble county, Ohio, January 
20, 1831, and was brought to Indiana when a child of five years. As a consequence 
nearly all his recollections are of Elkhart county, and he has known no other home. 
He attended the old log school-house in the district, and while yoimg killed many 
deer on the land now farmed by himself and neighliors. When twenty-five years 
of age he married Miss Levina Finley, daughter of Orrin Finley, who was a native 
Vermonter and who settled in La Salle county. 111. Two children were born to this 
union: Dora M., who died at the age of two years, and James O. John S. Juday 
worked in La Salle county, 111., two years and then made a settlement in Elkhart 
county. lud. His wife died three years after marriage, and Mr. Juday's second 
marriage was to Miss Sarah A. Peoples, daughter of Francis and Mary Peoples. 
Two children blessed this union: Salena A. and Minnie A. Our subject bought his 
present farm in 1868 and settled on it in 1870. It then consisted of forty acres, and 
to this he has since added eighty acres and now has 120 acres of good farming land. 
He has a good brick residence, substantial barn, and everything about the place in- 
dicates a progressive and prosperous owner. He is a public-spirited man, has taken 
an active interest in having good schools in his community, and is a member of the 
school board. His children are all well educated. His son, James O. . is a farmer 
in La Salle county. 111. He is married and has two children. William Peoples, 
grandfather of Mrs Juday, was born in Pennsylvania, where he followed farming 
and where he married a Bohan. Six children were given them. Eliza, Hannah, 
Francis, John and William are remembered. Mr. Peoples passed away in his native 
State. His son Francis, father of Mrs. Juday, was born in Lancaster county, Penn., 
December 9, 1813, and like most of his ancestors before him was a farmer. He 
went to Ohio when a j'oung man, or in 1835, and married Miss Mary Kindig, who 
was also a native of Lancaster county, Penn., born March 11, 1816, and the daughter 
of Henry and Madaline (Leslie) Kindig, both of whom were originally from Lancas- 
ter county, Penn., but early settlers of Montgomery county, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Peoples were born seven children: Henry, Sarah A., Selina (died in infancy), William 
E., John F., Ann M. and Aldis A., nil natives of Montgomery county, Ohio. In 
1859 Mr. Peoples came to Indiana and settled on the farm where his widow now re- 
sides. There his death occurred April 17, 1891. He was a worthy and honored 
citizen. Both Mr. and Mrs. Peoples were baptized in the German Baptist Church 
August 17, 1862. Mrs. Peoples is still living and is quite advanced in years. 



658 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Samuel B. Romaine (deceased) was one of the pioneers of Elkhart county, Ind., 
and a man whose name was familiarly known at Bristol as well as in the whole county. 
He stood deservedly high as a citizen and ueigbbor and was an honorable, upright 
gentleman whose memory is revered and respected. He was born in the city of 
New York June 3, 1808, and his father, Jacob Romaine, was a teacher in the schools 
of that city for over forty years. Until the age of thirteen years young Romaine 
was under the direct tutelage of his fatber, but at that time he entered the employ 
of a boot and shoe house in his native city, and a year later was indentured as an 
apprentice to serve six years at the tailor's trade. After five years he bought his 
sixth year and when twenty years of age went to South Carolina to occupy the posi- 
tion of foreman in a large clothing store. Returning to New York at the end of six 
mouths he clerked for a brief period and shortly after attaining his majority located on 
Nantucket Island. Here he embarked in mercLant tailoring on his own responsi- 
bility. In 1836 he emigrated westward for the purpose of bettering his condition 
in that rapidly growing country, aud in the fall and winter of that year he was at 
Bristol and Mishawaka, Ind. Snljsequently returning east he bought a stock of 
goods and moved to Bristol, where he embarked in merchandising. He was 
ever afterward identified with tbe prosperity and welfare of Bristol and Elkhart 
counties and was dpeply interested in public affairs. He was enterprising and pro- 
gressive, and because of his high sense of honor and accommodating disposition was 
universally respected. He became one of the organizers and heaviest stockholders 
in the First National Bank, at Elkhart; conducted insurance in connection with his 
other varied business interests; was the United States express agent; took a very 
active part in the project to develop the water power of the St. Joseph River at 
Bristol, which eventually will be utilized; was a principal stockholder and treasurer 
of the Nonpareil Mills and Bristol Manufacturing Company, and in time became 
a man of considerable wealth. He was twice married, first in September 1832, to 
Miss Eliza M. Coffin, of Nantucket Island, who bore him one son, Alfred. This 
son was clerk on a steamboat in Matagorda Bay, Tex. , and was there drowned during 
one of the terrible simoons tbat swept that port. Mrs. Romaine died in the Lone 
Star State, whither she had gone for her health. In 1860 Mrs. Cornelia Lee became 
his second wife and to this union one son was born, Samuel B. , who married Miss 
Sadie Cook, of Mottville, Mich., and now resides in Sheboygan, that State. Mr. 
Romaine passed away on April 19, 1878, and in his death the county lost one of its 
most useful and time-honored citizens. Mrs. Romaine' s previous marriage had 
been to Joseph W. Lee, who was a cabinet-maker in Bristol for a number of years. 
He was a native of England and came with his parents to Canada early in the pres- 
ent century; from there he came to Bristol, Ind., about the year 1842 and began 
working at his trade. In 1844 he wedded Miss Cornelia F. Alverson, one in a family 
of four sons and three daughters, born to William W. and Helen (Brace) Alverson. 
Both parents were natives of Oneida county, N. Y. , and came to Elkhart county, 
Ind., about tbe year 1838. Five children were born to Mr. Lee's marriage, only 
two of whom are living: Nora M. , resides at Elkhart and is the widow of Byron E. 
Merritt; and Alice M. makes her home in Elkhart aud is the wife of E. R. Ker- 
stetter. Mr. Lee moved to Chicago, where he was for a number of years engaged 
in the commission business, but returning to Bristol for the purpose of settling up 
his affairs, he was attacked by a malignant form of typhoid fever and died in 1867. 

Jacob F. Ott. It is always a pleasure to deal with the history of one who is a 
member of one of those grand old families who have for generations been dis- 
tingui.shed for patriotism, the genuine spirit of Christianity, and the strong char- 
acteristics which have made them prominent wherever they have settled. Jacob F. 
Ott is one of the original pioneers of Benton township, Elkhart Co., Ind.. and is 
descended from an old and prominent Virginia family. His grandfather, Francis 
Ott, was a native of that grand old State, Virginia, but at an early date settled in 
Pennsylvania where he passed the closing scenes of his life. His son, Frederick Ott, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 659 

father of our subject, was born in Virginia and married there. Soon afterward he 
and his wife moved to Preble county, Ohio, and made the journey on foot, their 
limited household effects being carried by a pack-horse. They settled in the thick 
woods and were among the very first settlers of that county. A hard struggle was be- 
fore them, but both had excellent health and they were determined to succeed. They 
were obliged to go sixty miles, to Cincinnati, to mill and market, and had to cut 
their own way through the dense timber. They made their own clothing and lived 
in a simple and primitive way. Mr. Ott was a great hunter and every fall and win- 
ter he killed from forty to fifty deer. Thus their table was abundantly supplied with 
meat, and the skins served as clothing and shoes. Mr. Ott had no education but 
was an American pioneer backwoodsman. He reared a large family with the ex- 
penditure of ver}' little money, relying on what he could raise, and the gun for sup- 
port. His settlement was about twenty miles west of Dayton, near Lewisburg, 
Preble Co., Ohio, and he was one of the first men to settle in that county. The 
ancestors of the Hepners and the Judays were also pioneers in the same county. 
Jacob F. Ott, our subject, was born on his father's farm in Preble county, Ohio, in 
November, 1822, and as the old log school-houses of pioneer days were few and far 
between at that time, he received no education. His father died in August, J 840, 
and after a sale of the effects, our subject with his brother Samuel, and his brother- 
in-law, Peter Dan, went to Elkhart county. Ind., where his uncle Jacob and his 
eldest brother John had settled. James F. Ott was then between seventeen and 
eighteen years of age. They made the k)urney with a two-horse team, two of them 
walking all the way as they had a large load. The journey occupied seven days, 
and after their arrival our subject began working by the day clearing land and made 
h"s home with his brother Samuel. He received but 45 cents a daj' for severe 
labor although he was strong and accustomed to hard work and very skillful with the 
ax. But money was very scarce and every thing high priced. Muslin was 25 
cents per yard, home-made jeans $1.25 per yard, and a good suit of clothing cost 
$35. Frequently Mr. Ott would work all day for a bushel of wheat, and then shock 
wheat in the evening. On February 2, 1845, Mr. Ott was married to Miss Margaret 
Gordy, daughter of William and Jane (Stuard) Gordy. Mr. Gordy was born in 
Delaware and was of English descent, his ancestors coming to this country at an 
early date. He was married in his native State, but subsequently moved to Pickaway 
county, Ohio, where he cleared and made a good farm. He was the father of 
seven children, all born in Pickaway county, Ohio, and named as follows: John, 
Margaret, Elizabeth, 'William, Nancy, Christopher and David. William Gordy 
came to Benton township, Elkhart Co., Ind., about 1852, cleared a good farm of 160 
acres and made a good home. He was a hard-working, industrious man and lived 
to be fifty-five years of age. After marriage Jacob F. Ott settled on lend in Benton 
township and still carries on the farm. He first purchased 120 acres in the woods, 
and by hard labor and great industry cleared up a good farm. Since then he has 
added to this until he is now the owner of 200 acres of fine farming land. He has 
made excellent improvements and built a substantial house and barn. His success 
in life is due to his indomitable energy and perseverance, and to his honorable and 
upright methods of conducting his affairs. He is held in high estimation in the 
coimty and his word is as good as his bond. In politics he is a strong Republican, 
and during the war he was a strict I^nion man. His marriage resulted in the birth of 
seven children: John W. , Paulina J., Jasper, Tiglman, Julia, James and Elmer, 
all born on the old homestead. Mr. and Mrs. Ott hold membership in the Evan- 
gelical Church, and Mr. Ott was trustee and class-leader. His son John W. mar- 
ried Miss Amanda Fry and they have two children (he is now a farmer of Benton 
township); Pauline, married William Tully, a farmer of Benton township, and they 
have four children; Jasper married Sarah Ott, who bore him three children, and he 
is now engaged in Noble county, Ind. ; Tiglman, married Susannah Allwine, and 
they have four children (they now reside in Oregon); James, married Sarah Landis 



660 PlcrolUM. AND IIIOCHM'II ICM. 

and they reside on the home place (tliey \\\\\\^ one child); Eliucr married Miss Etta 
Lauders and is also on the home farm; Julia S. is at home. 

Jacob H. Dell, a native of Elkhart coiintiy. Ind, was born in the township of 
Elkhart in 1844, a son of Jacob and Mary (Cripi>) Dell, the former of whom was 
born on Pennsylvania soil in ISl'J, his father-beiug John Dell, who was anjong the 
early pioneers of Elkhart county, lud. , settling in this region about ISST). He 
settled on a iieavily timbered farm in Elkhart township, four miles southwest of 
Goshen, where he lived for many years and died at an advanced age. Prior to com- 
ing to this section be resided for a short time in Oiiio, but was married in Pennsyl- 
vania to Mary Shaiip, and together they reared a family of eiglit children: Catherine, 
Levi, Jacob, Elizabeth. John, Mary, Barbara ami Samuel, all of whom attained 
manhood and womanhood, three being alive at the present time: Jacob, Mary (wife 
of William Kinzie), and Barbara (widow of Mr. Harvard, is living in Nappanee). 
Those who are dead reared families of their own, and the Dells in this j)art of the 
country sprang from John Doll, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch. The 
paternal great-great grandfather came from Ireland. John Dell died in 1858 or 
1859, having been a prominent man in political atT;iirs and a well-to-do tiller of the 
soil, although his pioneer days were marked with hardships and piivations. He 
suppoited Democratic principles, and was a mendjer of the CTerman Baptist t'iinrch. 
His wife, who dieil in 1884, was a life-long member of the German Baptist C'hnrch. 
Jacob, the father of the sul)ject of this sketch, was born in Pennsylvania, and was 
a boy when the trip was made from his native State to Ohio. He learned the car- 
penter's trade in the Buckeye State, and afflar coming to Indiana this business occu- 
pied his attention for many years. At the age of twenty-four he was married to 
Miss Mary Gripe, daughter of Jacob Cripe and his wife Catherine. Mary was 
born in Ohio, and was but nine years of age when her ])arents brought her to this 
section, the principal part of her education b(>iug obtained in the district schools 
here. Jacob Dell and his wife lived on a farm west of Goshen till 1854,at the same 
time following his trade of carpenter, then ]>urchased a farm in the woods of Olive 
township, where he cleared a small tract of land and built thereon a log house. 
Six of the nine children born to himself and wife are still living, their names being 
as follows: Jacob H. ; Nancy, who is the wife of Daliem Gulp, of Nappanee; Will- 
iam, who resides with his father and mother in Olive township; Mary, who is the 
wife of J. Roose, of Harrison township; Solomon; Catherine, who is the wife of 
David H. Mayer, of Olive township. John died when young; Samuel died at the 
age of eight years, and a little daughter died in infancy. The father of these chil- 
dren is now seventy-sis years of age and the mother seventy-three, and are now 
enjoying a vigorous old age in the vicinity of Wakarusa. They have a good prop- 
erty, which has been earned by their own toil, ami in the love and resjiect of their 
children and many friends they are happy and content. The father was first a 
Whig, but is now a Repnblican in politics, and he has alwaj's considered it a duty 
as well as a great pleasure to keep well posted on the current topics of the day. 
He has always been a public spirited citizen and a credit to the county. Since 1854 
he has followed farming until ho retired in 18S(X His childien are also well to do, 
and are highly esteemed residents of the county. His wife was nine years old when 
her parents came to this county, and her people were almost the tlist white people 
to locate in the county, the date of their location being IS'iU. They had come 
thither from Ohio, but were natives of Pennsylvania. Jacob Cripe, the father, was 
a son of Jacob Cripe, who died in 1865 at the age of ninety-eight years, having 
been a soldier in the War of 1812. Mary, the mother of the subject of this sketch, 
was one of a family of five children: Henr_v, Samuel, Mary, Catherine, and Lizzie, 
who died when young. Catherine Cripe, the maternal grandmother of Mr. Dell, 
died when her daughter Mary was live years of age. and her husl)and subsequently 
married her sister Mary, by whom he had two children, John and Nancy. The 
grandfather, Jacob Cripe, died in 1850. At the time Jacob H. Dell became a resi- 



ME}r()IllS OF IMJIAXA. VM 

dent of this county, he was nine years of age, and well remembers many events that 
happened iu those days. Jacob H. Dell, the subject of this sketch, was born in 
Elkhart township, about one mile from Goshen, and attended the early schools of 
the county, and, like the majority of farmers' boys, assisted his father on the farm. 
He never attended school after he was thirteen years of age, but the practical and 
busy life he has led has made him a well-informed man. At the age of twenty-two 
years he began doing for himself, and being the owner of a small farm began tilling 
it, but when about twenty-five years of age he began saw-milling near Wakarusa, 
and remained in that business for about fourteen years. He tiien gold the mill and 
returned to farming, carrying on this business one mile east of Wakarusa until 1S02, 
when he again moved to the town and resumed saw-milling, becoming a member of 
the Wakarusa Lumber Company. They have a finely equipped saw and planing- 
mill, and make a specialty of fine building lumber. The company is composed of 
five good business men: Fred Trisinger, Anthony, Henry J. and John Smeltzer, and 
the subject of this sketch. The capacity of the mill is from 10,01)0 to 14,000 feet 
per day. This business has proved a paying one to all the stockholders, and has 
been the means of greatly increasing the Vjusiness enterprise of the town. In poli- 
tics Mr. Dell is a Republican, and is interested in Ijoth local and national politics. 
At the present time he is trustee of Olive township, a position he has held since 
18y0, and he has always been a man of great public spirit and enterprise, and has 
shown a determination to push to a successful i.ssue everything that he undertakes. 
The cause of education has received considerable patronage at his hands, and he is 
a firm believer in the public-sschool system. He is one of the prominent men of his 
section, in every respect is self made, and has succeeded in accumulating a consider- 
able amount of worldly goods. In 1865 he was united in marriage to Barbara 
Fletcher, a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (^Reed) Fletcher, the former of whom 
was a Fennsylvanian, and a son of Jacob and Barbara fNestlerode) Fletcher. Sam- 
uel was one year old when taken to Ohio, and in 1852 became a resident of Elkhart 
county, Ind.. and until seventy three years of age resided in the vicinity of Waka- 
rusa. At that time his death occurred (1892). He became well to do, and on his 
farm of 100 acres he reared sis children and lost one. His wife, Elizabeth Reed, 
was a rlaughter of David Reed and Elizabeth (Fletcher) Reed. They were early 
pioneers of Ohio, and there they passed from life. Samuel Fletcher was a miller 
of Ohio for some time, but farmed after coming to Indiana. His wife died in Olive 
township in 1865, at the age of fifty years. She was the mother of seven children: 
Mariah, who is dead; Julia, the deceased wife of M. B. Gulp: Barbara; Elizabeth, 
who died when young; Andrew, who lives on his farm in Olive township; Lewis, 
also a resident of Olive townshi[); Nancy, wife of Rufus Perry, of South Bend, 
Ind. This family on the Fletcher side are of German descent, and on the Reed 
side English and Irish. Mrs. Dell was born in Ohio, November 20, 1846, and has 
borne her husband eight children, three of whom are living: William, born October 
29, 1874; Rasie, born December 21, 1878, and Hattie, born July 19, 1884. The 
other children died in infancy. 

Frof. EnoESE F. Lohb, principal of the high school of South Bend, Ind., has 
developed the highest qualities as a teacher, his enthusiasm in his work, his hearty 
convictions, together with attractive methods of tuition, having combined to make 
him one of the most successful high-school conductors in a State noted for its good 
schools. In fact, his versatility is found to include the rare gift of imparting 
knowledge in an original and attractive manner, hence his success. He was born in 
Washtenaw cjuntj-, Mich., near Ann Arbor, in 1859, his parents, Fhilip and Mary 
(Bach) Lohr, having been born in Germany, the former near Strassburg in May, 
1820. Fhilip was a son of John Lohr, who came to the United States about 1838 
and located at Wayne, Mich., where he died in 1874, at the age of eighty-six years. 
He was an extensive real-estate dealer when in Germany, and was a cavalry officer 
in the German army. His son, Fhilip, now resides in Ann Arbor, Mich., a retired 



662 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

farmer. Mary (Bach) Lohr was born iu Germany, and when three years of age was 
brought to the United States by her parents and with them first resided for a few 
years in the city of Philadelphia, after which they took up their residence in 
Washtenaw county, Mich., where the father died in 1866 and the mother one year 
later. Eugene F. Lohr was the seventh child in a family of six sons and three 
daughters, and in the vicinity of Ann Arbor he was reared, in the common schools of 
which section he received his initiatory training. Succeeding this he fitted himself 
for a University course in the Ann Aibor High School. Upon finishing his course 
there, he entered the noted western institution of learning, the University of Michi- 
gan, and after attending one term, taught a district school for six months in order to 
obtain means to continue his pursuit of knowledge. The school-house in which he 
"wielded the ferule"' was of the old-fashioned kind, with benches all around the 
room, and the stove, which was supposed to furnish heat to the room, although it 
first boasted the proud possession of three legs, eventually lost one and in its stead 
two bricks were used. In 1884 he came to South Bend and accepted a position as 
instructor in German and Latin in the city high school, which he held until 1890 
when, upon the resignation of Charles H. Bartlett as principal of the high school, 
he was appointed in his stead and has discharged the duties of this responsible 
office to the general satisfaction of all concerned. During his vacations he has 
made two trips to Europe, thus gaining a practical knowledge of the ways of the 
Old World, which has been of great use to him in his profession. Besides having a 
thorough knowledge of the English and German languages, he has spent two of his 
vacations at Oswego studying French and Spanish. On Jun^ 20, 1892, he was 
united in marriage to Miss Blanche Snyder, a popular young lady of South Bend, 
who was born in New Tork. a daughter of A. H. and Julia (Stowell) Snyder, both 
of whom were born in New York State and came to South Bend in 1882, where they 
are still residing. Mr. Snyder is one of the leading druggists of the city. Prof, 
and Mrs. Lohr are members of the Presbyterian Church. He is in every respect a 
self-made man, is one of nature's noblemen and is in the enjoyment of a large circle 
of friends. 

Martin L. Wenger is a retired farmer, and is a prosperous real estate dealer 
of South Bend, and by judicious and honorable management his affairs have devel- 
oped to a gratifying magnitude. He is deservedly popular, and as a successful finan- 
cier his judgment is unquestionable. He was born in Lebanon county, Peun., 
June 16, 1820, to Martin and Elizabeth (Light) Wenger, who were also natives of 
the same county, the former dying in 1860 at the age of seventy-nine years and 
eight months, and the latter when the subject of this sketch was a small boy. Mar- 
tin Wenger, Sr. , was a farmer, and learned the details of this calling of his father, 
Christian Wenger, who was born in Germany. When a young man he left his 
native land to seek a home in America, and spent the rest of his days in Pennsylva- 
nia, dying at an advanced age. The maternal grandfather of the subject of this 
sketch was Henry Light, being a descendant of the family that many years before 
laid out the town of Lebanon. To Martin and Elizabeth (Light) Wenger four 
sons and four daughters were born. The father of the subject of this sketch was 
married twice, and by the second union were six children, of whom the subject is 
the seventh iu order of birth in the first union, and the only one now living. He resided 
with his father until he was about twenty-one years of age and received a good edu- 
cation iu the German language. On October 13, 1841, young Wenger left the pater- 
nal roof with S200 in his possession to seek his fortune in the West, where others of 
the family had already settled. On November 9 he arrived in St. Joseph county, 
Ind., having made the entire trip alone, walking to Springfield and Dayton, Ohio, 
where he visited his sisters. From there to South Bend he came by private convey- 
ance, where he met an older brother. Christian Wenger, who had settled here. He 
stayed with his brother during the winter, but in the spring, filled with the spirit of 
adventure and a desire for wealth, and on hearing that larger wages were paid for 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 663 

hands in Illinois than here, he at once determined to set out for that place. So 
buying an old horse for ^70 and hiring a buggy, in company with a friend, on May 
1 he again set his face westward, but on arriving in Illinois he found things alto- 
gether different. Wages were not nearly as high as in Indiana, so, after prospecting 
for some time in different places in Illinois and Iowa, he turned back, sadly discour- 
aged, arriving again at South Bend just before harvest, out of money. Hp at once hired 
to a Mr. tlery to assist in operating a traveling threshing machine. He gained ex- 
perience readily and at the end of the first month was employed by Mr. Briggs, the 
threshing machine manufacturer, to operate machines and act as agent for S25 per 
month. He followed the occupation of threshing for many years, and this experi- 
ence was the means of developing the energy and business talent that has been so 
characteristic of his life. February 18, 1845, he married Miss Christena Studebaker, 
■who was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, six miles west of Dayton, on Stillwater 
Creek, she being a daughter of Samuel and Lydia (Leer) Studebaker, who was 
reared and married in Pennsylvania, and emigrated to Dayton, Ohio, in an early 
dav. Mr. Studebaker was a millwright and built a gristmill on Stillwater Creek, 
which he sold to Mr. Aiusley about 1829. Following this he came to St. Joseph 
county, Ind., and entered the land now owned by the subject of this sketch, moving 
his family here in 1831. At that time the country was covered with heavy timbers 
and inhabited by various wild animals. Here they carved out a home for them- 
selves in the thick forest, and in due course of time became wealthy as the country 
became settled and towns began to spring up. Mr. Studebaker died in 1837 and 
his wife in 1845. He built the first saw-mill in St. Joseph county on the St. Joseph 
Eiver at the mouth of Wenger Creek, and he also assisted in laying out the city of 
South Bend. He was a prominent and influential man of his day and belonged to 
that sturdy class of pioneers who were instrumental in making the country the 
magnificent agricultural region it now is. Mr. ^Yenger and his wife first began 
housekeeping in a small frame house 16x18 feet and one story high, situated three 
miles south of South Bend on what is now known as the Turkey Creek Eoad, but 
at that time was accessable only by an Indian trail through the heavy woods. The 
family have in their possession a picture of the house. Here they resided three 
years, after which Mr. Wenger purchased the Studebaker homestead, a farm of 156 
acres, on which he has resided for forty-three years. The most of the land he, him- 
self, cleared. The farm is now all within the corporate limits of the city of South 
Bend, the land being nearly all laid out in town lots. He has sold seven acres 
to the Toy Manufacturing Company, five and three-fourth acres to the Miller & 
Knoblock Wagon Factory, and nearly two hundred lots as well as various other 
sales. Mr. Wenger has several streets named in honor of his family as follows: 
Wenger street laid out in 1882, Elizabeth street, Priscilla street, Fellow street. 
Christian street, Marietta street. High street, Broadway street, Pennsylvania avenue. 
He has one son and one daughter living Marietta (wife of H. W. Krieghbaum, who is an 
elder in the German Baptist Church); and Christian (a prosperous farmer near South 
Bend). Ephraim and Ira are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Wenger are members of the 
German Baptist Church, which is located on land owned by Mr. Wenger. He has 
always been a warm Republican, and his first presidential vote was cast for William 
Henry Harrison. He has always been an industrious and upright citizen, and has 
done a great deal to improve the city of South Bend and is regarded as one of her 
most substantial residents. 

F. J. Lewis Meter, one of the foremost attorneys of South Bend, Ind., is a son 
of Rev. F. F. Meyer, who was born in Alsace, Lorraine, France (now Germany), 
and when sixteen years of age emigrated to Canada, and for eleven years there- 
after was a school teacher in the Dominion, in the following of which calling he 
won an excellent reputation. About 1870, while living in Canada, he entered the 
ministry of the Evangelical Association, and about five years later came to the 
United States and settled in Michigan, and at a still later period in South Bend, 



664 PWTOniAL AND liTOGRAPIIICAL 

in which place he pursued his ministerial duties for three years. He is now 
located in South Dakota, where he is secretary aud treasurer of the Farmers' 
State Alliance, prior to which he efficiently tilled two terms as county superintendent 
of schools. When in Canada he was married to Mary Foerster, a native of that 
country and a good old-fashioned family of fifteen children was given to them, 
of whom F. J. Lewis Meyer is the eldest. Ail the members of this large family are 
living: F. J. Lewis; Jacob; George, a foreman for Studebaker Bros. ; Sophia, wife 
of C. M. R. Haeske, superintendent of the wagon department of Studebaker Bros. ; 
Mary; Lena; Moses; Daniel; Joseph; Bertha; Mattie; John; Fred; Edward and 
Charles. F. J. Lewis Meyer, together with John A. Berers, principal of the Mish- 
awaka schools, and George A. Powles, now of Chicago, were the founders of the 
South Bend Normal School, an institution that has become widely and favorably 
known. Mr. Meyer was born in Canada in 18Gl), aud in the common schools of 
Michigan he received a good education. In 1880 he came to South Bend from 
the Wolverine State, and for a number of years thereafter taught school aud, like 
his father before him, won a good reputation as an educator. From 1886 to 1888 
he was principal of the Lafayette School. After choosing law as his life work, 
he took a course in the Union College of Law at Chicago, and at the time of hia 
graduation he took the first prize for the best thesis on any legal subject. He 
was admitted to the bar in 1890, and his tir.st case involved $3,000 and was before 
the Miciiigan Supreme Court. He won the suit against the Hon. A. N. Van Riper 
as attorney, a man of high standing, who just before was attorney general of Mich- 
igan. Mr. Meyer speaks German and consequently has a good practice among the 
German population of St. Joseph county. Although engaged in the practice of 
law he still holds a State license. He is attorney for the St. Joseph County Loan 
& Savings Association, and is also treasurer of the Workingmen's Building & Loan 
Association. He has always been a stanch Rej)ublican, and on that ticket ran 
for the position of mayor of South Bend in 1890, but was defeated. In 1884 be 
was united iu marriage with Miss Mary L. Rough, of Michigan, by whom he is 
the father of one son and two daughters: Edwin, Ivy and Louis. He has a very 
attractive home on the corner of Navarre street and Portage avenue, aud he and 
his intelligent and amiable wife are members in good standing of the German Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. Socially he belongs to the I. O. O. F. He is a man who 
occupies a high position in the estimation of the public and is deservedly classed 
among the eminent attorneys of the county. 

George W. Zinn. The Zinn family comes of sturdy German stock, and those of 
that name in this country are supposed to have descended from two brothers who 
crossed the Atlantic ocean prior to the opening of the war of the Revolution, to 
seek a home for themselves on a foreign shore and in a strange aud new country. 
The great grandfather of the subject of this sketch was one of these young men and 
upon reaching this country he settled at Hagerstown, Md. , where he married and 
reared a large family of children. The other brother went to the State of New 
York where he married, aud manv of his descendants are now in that State and in 
Bennsylvania. One of the sons of the Maryland Ziniis married and moved with his 
family to Preston county, W. Va., where the remainder of his days were spent, dying 
at a ripe old age, and leaving behind him a large and highly respected family of 
children. One of these children was George, the father of George W. Zinn. He 
was a tailor by trade and later in life worked at carpentering* and farming, in which 
line of work he met with fair success. Upon reaching man's estate he was married 
to Miss Elizabeth Powell, a native of Virginia, and to them a family of eleven 
children was given, of whom George W. was the youngest member. Later in life 
he took for his second wife a Miss lulow, who bore him three children. In the early 
settlement of Central Ohio he moved thither and made a location in what is now 
Knox county, and he it was that erected the first house in the now flourishing little 
city of Mt. Vernon, but a few years later he moved to the vicinity of Columbus and 



MEMOIJiS OF IMiIANA. 665 

from there to Clark county of the same State, where he arrived at a serene old age, 
but passed to his reward at the home of his son George W., in Indiana at the age 
of seventy-eight years. In his political proclivities he was au old line Whig and a 
man well posted on religious and historical subjects, and public spirited in every 
respect. He was a pioneer of two States and a man who took an important part in 
the affairs of each. George W. Ziun received such advantages as is usually given 
the farmer's boy, that is, h,e was thoroughly drilled in the mysteries of farming from 
the tirst and received such early education as the district schools of his vicinity 
afforded. When about nineteen years of age he left his home in Ohio and went 
with a married sister by wagon to Knox county, 111., about the year 1836, in which 
State he remained one year. He came to Elkhart county, Ind., at the end of this 
time to visit another married sisler, Mrs. John Pittman, riding an Indian pony to 
this section. His intention was to return to Illinois after a short visit, but instead 
of doing so Elkhart county has continued to remain bis home up to the present 
time. The first few years of his residence here he worked as a farm hand and later 
as a brickmaker, by which means he secured a start, although he never received over 
§13 per month for his services. Out of this small compensation he clothed and fed 
himself and also contrived to save a small amount each month, with which he pur- 
chased a small tract of land. He disposed of this property after a short time and 
after making a number of changes located on the farm which he still owns in Jack- 
son township, which comprises 200 acres of finely improved land, not only so far as 
cultivation is concerned, but also in the way of buildings, fences, etc. In addition 
to this he owns a pleasant and comfortable home in Goshen. On March 17, 1842. 
he led to the altar Miss Elizabeth Myers, who was Ijorn in Prel)le county, Ohio, 
July 20, 1821, her husl)and's birth occurring September 5, 181 'J, near Columlms, 
Fianklin Co., Ohio. When an infant he was taken by his parents to Clarke county, 
that State, and there he attained manhood. To Mr. and Mrs. Ziun six children were 
given: Eli M., who died in his seventeenth year; Mary Jane, wife of H. N. Hop- 
kins, a resident of Garnett, Kan.; Arvilla Z., who married Samuel Vail (who died 
some years afler their marriage), and makes her home with the subject of this 
sketch: Milo C. died in childhood; Ida May also died when a child; Frank Hamlin 
is a successful dentist of Chicago. These children and Mr. Zinn were called upon 
to mourn the death of the wife and mother March 20, 1884. She was one of the 
noble, Christian women of her community, was an earnest member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church and had the respect of all who knew her. A few years after his 
wife's death Mr. Zinn rented his farm and moved to Goshen, where he now resides. 
Mr. Zinn has Ijeen a lifelong \Yhig and Republican and has held the office of county 
commissioner, in whicii he discharged his duties in a very acceptable manner and 
to the satisfaction of all those interested. He is a member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, and in all ways is a most worthy citizen. He has been au omnivorous 
reader and is well posted on current topics and matters in general and his ideas of 
business are shrewd and far-seeing and of a decidedly practical nature. Mr. Zinn's 
parents, Christian and Elizabeth (Nation) Myers, were natives of North Carolina, 
but moved to Tennes-^ee in the early part of the present century and from there to 
Preble county, Ohio, in 1811. In 1828 they came to Elkhart county, locating on 
Elkhart Prairie, where they brought up a large and honorable family of children, 
many of whom moved to Iowa and were early settlers of that State. Two of the 
sons were well known in this county. Joseph held the office of county com- 
missioner and justice of the peace and was afterward a land commissioner of I(jwa. 
The Myerses were pioneer settlers of four States and the Zinns of three. 

Thomas St.\p.r was Ijorn February 4. 1855, near Montpelier, Williams Co., 
Ohio, and in 18()5 moved with his parents to Bryan, Ohio. When thirteen yeai-s old 
he came to Goshen and entered a [)rinting office. Two years later he went to Cass 
county, Ind.. and worked on a farm atid in a printing office, attending a three months' 
term of school in the meantime. He returned to Goshen and worked in tiie printing 



666 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

office until 187-4. then went West for a year and returned to take charge of a printing 
office established at Syracuse, Ind. He remained there cue year and in 1876 went 
to Albion, Ind., and with J. P. Prickett. purchased the Neic Era. lu 1878 be went 
to Hicksville, Ohio, and purchased the News, having sold his interest in the New 
Era. Mr. Starr sold the News in 1881 and in 1882 'went to Goshen and purchased 
the Independent, the name of the paper being changed to the News. In 1883 he 
established the Daily Neics. His business now consists of daily and weekly Neivs, 
book and stationery store, Ijook-bindery and a tirst-class job-printing office. He was 
married in 1878 to Adella. daughter of the late Judge William M. Clapp, of Albion, 
and they have three children. 

Elbridge Gr. Herr. This gentleman is descended from an old and well-known 
Pennsylvania family of that name who were colonial settlers of Lancaster county. 
Daniel, father of Elbridge G., was a native of the Keystone State, as was Miss Sarah 
Martin, who became his wife. Mr. Herr was a life-long hotel keeper in Columbia, 
Penn. , his hostelry being well and favorably known to the traveling public. He 
took great interest in the militia of Pennsylvania, and prior to the war pf the Rebel- 
lion was a brigadier general of State troops, and did much to give character and effi- 
ciency to them. He also represented his county in the State Legislature two terms 
in ante bellum days. August 11, 1861, he assisted in raising the Eleventh Pennsyl- 
vania Cavalry, and was commissioned captain of Company I. His company was 
recruited for the most part in York county, having served as infantry for their three 
months' term of enlistment, under Capt. Cochran. They then re-enlisted and after- 
ward served as cavalry. Mr. Herr was elected captain of the company. He was a 
large, corpulent man, and being well advanced in years, after a service of fifteen 
months in the Peninsular campaign where he saw much active service, he was com- 
pelled to resign on account of general debility and greatly impaired health. At 
his resignation, resolutions of regret and respect were given him in writing by all 
the officers of his regiment. He was most highly respected and spoken of by his 
comrades in arms. On his return to his home he resumed his duties as hotel pro- 
prietor. His death, which occurred in October, 1865, was deeply regretted by his 
family and a large circle of friends. He was a prominent member of the Masonic 
order, a most genial companion, a kind father and a worthy citizen. To him and 
wife were born six children, our subject, his brother Eugene and his sister Ada 
being all that are living. In 1866 the mother removed with her family to Goshen. 
Ind., where she has since resided. Elbridge G. was reared in the town of Columbia, 
where he was born March 25, 1842. He received an academic education and after leav- 
ing school clerked in a book store and assisted his father in the hotel, and when he en- 
listed in the army our subject assumed management of the hotel until his father' s re- 
turn. He then entered the service of Uncle Sam and did clerical work in the United 
States provost marshal's office at Harrisburg, Penu., and detached duties elsewhere 
until the close of the war, and on August 31, 1865, he was discharged. He came 
with his family to Goshen in March, 1866, and was soon after appointed clerk to G. 
D. Copeland, United States revenue assessor, and about one year later became 
assistant assessor for three counties and remained as such until January 1, 1873, 
when he resigned and formed a partnership with Col. R. M. Johnson, for the prac- 
tice of law. After thirteen years and several changes in the name of the firm, Mr. 
Herr succeeded to the business, which he has since conducted alone. He is pre- 
eminently an office attorney and has largely confined his practice to probate law 
and collecting. In 1888 he was appointed insurance inspector for the city of Goshen, 
a position he has since filled to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. One of 
the most prominent characteristics of Mr. Herr is his love and aptitude for the mil- 
itary. In 1873 he became a charter member of Calanthe Lodge, No. 41 Knights of 
Pythias, and was the first master at arms. Starting from this appointive position 
in the order he has achieved that honor to which but few men aspire and fewer ever 
realize — that of being past grand chancellor and eventually representative to the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 667 

supreme lodge of the world. In 1874 be was elected past chancellor and repre- 
sentative and attended the grand lodge session in July of that year. He was 
re-elected as representative in December, 1874, June, 1875, and December, 1875, 
and served on several important committees during these sessions. At the January 
session in 1877 he was appointed grand master at arms, vice Wilbur F. Taylor, 
who had been appointed grand K. of R. & S. ad-interim, vice N. C. Potter, 
resigned. At the same session he was appointed grand inner guard for the term 
ending July, 1877. He was elected grand prelate, in Januarj-, 1878, grand vice- 
chancellor in January, 1882, and grand chancellor in January, 1883. As one of 
the charter members of Calanthe Division, No. 11, Uniform rank K. of P. he was 
elected at the organization as sir knight commander, and served as such until his 
promotion to the position of major of the Second Regiment Indiana Brigade U. R. 
K. P. in June, 1884, and in July, 1888, was promoted to the position of colonel of 
the regiment. His ability as a presiding officer is evidenced by the fact that his 
lodge elected him as chancellor commander for several years in succession. Col. 
Herr is said to be the next smallest commander, in stature, that ever wielded a 
sword at the head of a regiment of the Uniform Rank. His promotion in this 
branch of the order was rapid, and in every way merited. In June, 1892. he was 
re-elected colonel, and is now serving his second term as colonel of the Second 
Regiment. Mr. Herr was united in marriage in 1866 with Miss Mary A. Child, a 
native of Marietta, Penn. , and to them has been born one son, Charles C, the well- 
known and popular junior member of the firm of Peters & Herr, of Goshen. Mr. 
Herr has been a life long Republican and a laborer for the success of his party. 
He owns a nice home and valuable real estate in Goshen and is one of the most 
worthy and progressive citizens. 

Dempster Beattt is one of the most prominent manufacturing and business men 
of Mishawaka, Ind. He was the first man to organize a company for the manufact- 
ure of felt boots in Indiana, and the concern took the name of the Beatty Felting 
Company, which has already attained a wide reputation. Mr. Beatty was born in 
Sandusky City, Ohio, August 30, 1828, his grandfather, James Beatty, having been 
born in Bally Canoe, County Wexford, Ireland. The latter was a miller by occu- 
pation, and while following his calling built a dam at Bally Canoe, which is still in 
a good state of preservation. He was the owner of some real estate and was con- 
sidered to be a wealthy man. He was the father of James, John, Leonard, Demp- 
ster and a daughter, but the property which he accumulated went to his eldest son, 
James, and the other three sons determined to seek their fortune in America, and 
settled at New Loudon, Coun. John made a fortune as a ship chandler, and bought 
a large tract of land in Erie, then Huron Co., Ohio, on which he settled and made 
his home until his death. Dempster Beatty, the father of the subject of this sketch, 
was born in County Wexford, Ireland, of Scotch-Irish parents, and upon starting 
out in life for himself liegan working at the cabinet-maker's trade in Philadelphia, 
after which he followed the same occupation in Norwich, Conn., where he married 
Elizabeth Ferguson. This union resulted in the birth of ten children: John, Will- 
iam, James, Ross, Jackson, Dempster, Leonard, Lurana, Elizabeth and Susan. Mr. 
Beatty continued to be a resident of Norwich, Conn., for a number of years, then re- 
moved to Ohio and settled at Milan, near Sandusky City, in 1813, at which time 
that section of the country was a wilderness, and Sandusky City a very small ham- 
let. Mr. Beatty entered land for a farm which he cleared, and on which he resided 
until 1830, when he moved to Chicago by wagon. Not being impressed with the 
place became on to Niles and settled on Birdsley Prairie in 1832, and with his sons 
entered 3()0 acres of land, which they converted into a good farm, after which they 
removed to Kosciusko county, where he became the owner of another large tract of 
land on which the remainder of his days were spent. When his sons started on an 
independent career, he gave each of them, with the exception of two, from 120 to 
160 acres of land, a horse and a yoke of oxen. To William, who was a cabinet- 



668 PICTORIAL AND BIOGUAPUICAL 

maker, he gave an equivalent, bnt Dempster received nothing, as he left liome at 
the age of eighteen. Mr. Beatty was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, 
was a man of excellent education and great strength and integrity of character. In 
his old age he gave up farming and practiced law for some time, in which'lie was 
successful. He was a strong Democrat politically, was an early justice of the 
peace, and was one of the judges of the county of Kosciusko. He possessed an ex- 
cellent constitution, was powerfully built and lived to the age of seventy-five vears. 
Dempster Beatty, the subject of this sketch, received only a limited education in his 
youth, but by reading and business experience he has become a well posted man. lieing 
especially foud of reading historical and religious works. He was reared to the call- 
ing of a farmer, but the work did not suit him for a life calling, and at the age of 
eighteen he began learning the wagon-maker's trade. In 3846 he located in Os- 
wego, Ind., but one year later came to Mishawaka and continued to work at the 
trade with Adolphus and John Eberliart, with whom he continued for three years, 
the one following being spent in La Porte. He returned to Mishawaka and formed 
a partnership with Anolj)hiis Eberhart in the wagon maker's business, which con- 
tinued until 1858. In I860 he became a member of the firm of Milburn, Eberhart 
& Co., with whom he did a profitable business for the Government during the Civil 
war. In 186-1: he sold out and went to Des Moines, Iowa, where he was engaged in 
the agricultural implement business for two years. He turned his attention to hard- 
ware and the agricultural implement business in Chicago, in 1S66, under the firm 
name of Starritt & Beatty, but was burned out by the great Chicago fire, in which 
he lost all his hard-earued accumulations. In 1876 he returned to Mishawaka and 
became connected with the St. Joseph Manufacturing Company, in which he was a 
stockholder. In 1880 he began business with his son, Leonard E. , in the manufacture 
of felt boots, and the first year made 400 cases. It was the third firm in the United 
States to engage in this business, which has grown and prospered in an astonish- 
ing but very satisfactory manner. In 188(5 a stock company was organized with a 
capital of §50,000, of which amount S45,300 was paid in. The present officers 
are: D. Beatty, president; E. L. Beatty, vice-president; Lutheria Beatty, secre- 
tary. The capacity is now 20,000 cases per year, but tbey are exceeding this, 
and are experiencing a difficulty in filling orders. The company has the best ma- 
chinery in this line procurable, and send out tirst-class goods, which is without 
doubt the secret of their success. In 1851 Mr, Beatty married ^Margaret, daughter 
of Elijah Fox, a pioneer settler of Terre Coupee Prairie, this county, and by her he 
became the father of two children: Leonard E. and Ida M. Mrs. Beatty died in 
1861, and for his second wife Mr. Beatty took Miss Lutheria Wilsie. Leonard 
Beatty is with Hibbard Spencer, Bartlett & Co., of Chicago, in the hardware busi- 
ness, of which he is a stockholder, and a man of excellent business capacity, and 
Ida M. is the wife of E. G. Studley, of Grand Rapids, Mich., president of the Grand 
Rapids Felt Boot Company. Politically Mr. Beatty is a Republican, and through- 
out life has pursued a course marked l)y integrity, his success in life being attrib- 
utable to industry, energy and excellent business qualifications. He is one of the 
foremost men of Mishawaka, and commands respect from all with whom he has 
business relal ions, as well as from the townspeople generally. In every respect he 
is of the stuff of which model citizens are made. 

George H. Asire, of the firm of Asire Bros., manufacturers of steam and hot- 
water apparatus at South Bend. Ind., is a gentleman of the highest standing and 
ability, being thoroughly familiar with every detail of his important work. He 
was born in Holmes countv, Ohio November 13, 1853, a son of John M. and 
Anna (Aultman) Asire, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania, and the 
latter of Ohio. The father became a resident of the Buckeye State in an early 
day and there met and married Miss Aultman. The Asire family was originally 
from the land of windmills, bnt became residents of America soon after the ar- 
rival of the famous ship ''Mayflower." The paternal grandfather, Henry Asire, 





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MEMOUiS OF IXni.LyA. 671 

was a soldier iu the War of 1S12. The parents of George H. Asire came to 
St. Joseph county, Ind. , in the fall of 1S57, and settled on a farm which they 
purchased near Lakeville, in Union township. At that time but little of the 
land was improved, but a small log house had been erected thereon, and in this 
the family resided until 1S61, when they moved to Lakeville where the father 
established himself in the blacksmith business, continuing until his removal to 
South Bend in 1863. He continued this occupation after locating here until a 
short time since, but is now devoting his attention to agriciiltural pursuits in the 
vicinity of South Bend. While a resident of South Bend, he was a member of 
the city council for two years and was trustee of the water works for three years. 
During the Civil war he took an active part in raising and recruiting troops, was 
lieutenant of State militia, and at Lakeville was accidentally wounded by a gun 
shot which prevented him from entering the regular service. He is the father 
of four sons and one daughter, three of the former being partners in the man- 
ufacturing business: George H., Orlando J. and Lewis E. George H. Asire has 
been principally reared in St. Joseph county and educated in the public schools. 
Until fourteen years of age he resided on a farm, then began learning the busi- 
ness of steam heating and in the spring of 1884 considered himself sufficiently 
well versed in the business to open an establishment of his own, and time has 
proved the wisdom of his views, for he has been remarkably successful. He 
continued alone until 1891, when he associated with him two brothers and they 
are now doing a mammoth and constantly increasing business, their numerous 
orders compelling them to run their plant both night and day. He put up the 
heaters for the high school building, the Odd Fellows Block, Sherman House, Bap- 
tist Church and numerous others of the prominent buildings of the city. He has 
always been very j)ublic spirited, and aside from his responsiljle business interests 
he has found time to interest himself in public affairs, and for two years was an in- 
telligent member of the city council. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and the 
Royal Aa-cauum, is a Democrat politically, and he and his wife, whom he married 
in November, 1873, are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her maiden 
name was Alice Lamb, a native of this county, and she has borne her husband two 
children: George, Jr., and Edith. Mr. Asire is the patentee of two boilers of great 
superiority and has a patent pending on another, called the Asire boiler. He and 
his brothers have excellent facilities for rapid and reliable production and employ a 
staff of competent assistants, who are ably supervised by the practical heads of the 
house. 

S. Wesley and Thomas J. Hill are the proprietors of the City Roller Mills. 
The use of cereals for food is rapidly growing in favor in this country. In Scot- 
land oatmeal is considered the essential thing for creating "brain and bra^vn." 
"More bread and less meat in your diet" is the standard prescription for indigestion 
and kindred ailments by the best read medical men. It will therefore be readily 
seen that an excellent class of flour is necessary for the well being of humanity, and 
this can be found in the article manufactured by the Hill Brothers, who have long 
been thoroughly familiar with the details of the work. Both gentlemen were bom 
in Lime Ridge, Columbia Co., Penn. , were brought up on a farm and educated 
in the common country ami city schools. S. Welsey, the senior member of the firm, 
was born January 12, 184-t, his parents being Jacob and Anna (Achenbach) Hill, 
also natives of Columbia county, Penn., of which section the Hills were early emi- 
grants from Germany. The paternal grandfather, Frederick Hill, was a colonel in 
the Revolutionary war and by occupation was a farmer, in which occupation his son. 
Jacob followed in his footsteps. He died in 1859, but his widow still resides in 
Columbia county. They were the parents of eight children: Charles F., of Hazel- 
ton, Penn. ; Emanuel, also of that place; James, of Chicago, 111. ; Mrs. Dr. E. W. 
H. Low, of Line Ridge, Penn. ; S. Wesley; Mrs. Mary E. Evert, of Watsontown, 
Penn.; Thomas J. and Dr. J. W., of South Bend. S, Wesley was for a few years in 



«72 PICTORIAL A2s^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

the flour and grain business in Hazelton, Penn., but since 1878 has been a success- 
ful flour miller of South Bend, and turns out an exceptional]}' fine article of flour, 
•which is becoming widely known. lu 1870 he was married to Miss Alice Frease, a 
native of Columbia county, Penn., and to whom three sons and seven daughters have 
been born. Mr. Hill is a liberal contributor to all public enterprises and is a useful 
and highly esteemed citizen of South Bend. Thomas J. Hill was married in 1878 
to Miss Jennie Me^-ers of South Bend, aud they have two children. The mill now 
owned by himself and brother was first built in 1843 by J. A. Hendricks, who ran it 
a few years, when it was purchased by Coquillard & Miller in 1S55. It was shortly 
afterward burned to the ground, and was rebuilt by this firm on the old style 
buhrs and run for some years. It was then sold to Loomis, and remained in his 
hands until purchased by Hill Bros., by whom it has been remodeled and the roller 
process introduced. These gentlemen have been the proprietors since 1878, and 
now turn out on an average 300 barrels every twenty- four hours. These gentlemen 
are highly esteemed in trade circles for their sterling integrity and their mill is well 
known aud has a high reputation. 

William Miller, president of the South Bend National Bank. In looking over 
a comparative statement of the institutions of a financial character doing business in 
this city, we find them in comparison with the same class of organizations elsewhere, 
solvent, prosperous and useful in the highest degree. The South Bend National 
Banks adds no little to this, and is one of the best and most substantial of its kind 
in the State. Mr. Miller, its well-known president, was born in Lebanon county, 
Penn., March 16, 1821, a son of Henry aud Catherine (Harper) Miller, who were 
also born in the Keystone State, the great-grandparents having been born in Ger- 
many. They arrived in this country in 1743, and settled in what was then Lan 
caster county, Penn., which is now Lebanon county, where they both died. Both 
the paternal and maternal grandfathers were in the Revolutionary war, were farmers 
by occupation, and paid the last debt of nature in Pennsylvania. Henry Miller 
followed in his father's footsteps and was also a farmer. After remaining in the 
East with his family until 1837, he turned his footsteps westward and made the 
jouruey to St. Joseph county, Ind. , in wagons, locating in Portage township, on 
what is now a portion of South Bend. In 1843 he removed to Berrien county, Mich., 
in which State he was called from life in 1851. The mother died a few years later. 
They became the parents of six sons and four daughters, but at the present time 
only four members of this family are living: William; Joseph; Catherine, widow of 
David Gerberich, aud Malinda, widow of John H. Kingery. William Miller, the 
subject of this sketch, was only about sixteen years of age on coming to this county, 
the first thirteen years of his life being spent on a farm, and in the primitive log 
constructions of early days he obtained some education, but the most of his knowl- 
edge has been acquired by practical experience and self application. His first bus- 
iness experience was obtained in a mercantile establishment of Harrisburg, Penn., 
■where he acted as clerk, and after coming to South Bend he followed the same occu- 
pation for a number of different firms until 1849, when the "gold fever" seized 
him and he crossed the plains to California in company with ten others, and unlike 
the many who took the toilsome overland journey they arrived at their destination 
safely without experiencing any difiiculties or hardships. Mr. Miller remained there 
engaged in mining and trading in stock until the fall of 1852, when he returned to 
South Bend, after which he built the stone works of the Illinois Central Railroad 
from the Calumet River to Kankakee City, finishing the job in 1854. Following 
this he purchased the Hendricks Flour Mill, which he operated until 1869, then sold 
out and entered the bank with which he is now connected, which was then known as 
the Bank of State of Indiana, and held the position of cashier under various changes 
for about twenty-two years, when he became president of the institution, and is still 
discharging the duties of that office. During this time he was president of the 
Peninsular Railroad (now the Grand Trunk Railroad), Indiana division, and for three 



3IE1I0IRS OF IXDIASA. 673 

years discharged the responsible duties of that position. He is a stockholder in the 
Mishawaka Pulp Company, the South Bend Gas Light Company and the Porcelain 
Company. He has been mayor of South Bend two terms, and during his adminis- 
tration there was mnch talk and strife over the system of water works to be decided 
upon, but his decision ha.«- proven very satisfactory. He has also served as a member 
of the city council a number of terms, and while a member of that body showed 
much good judgment and executive ability. In 1856 he was united in marriage 
with Miss Caroline Folsom, in 1S5S to Mary Groff, by whom he has four children 
living: Mrs. Kittie Clark, of Lawrence, Kas. ; William F., of Mishawaka; JohnG., 
of Spokane Falls, Wash., and Eugene H. Mr. Miller's third wife, who died June 
29, 1887, was Mary K. Butler, who was born near London, England, but this union 
has not resulted in the birth of any children. Mr. ililler has in his possession some 
writing which was done by his great-grandfather Harper, and also his pocket-book 
which he brought with him to this conntrj- in 17-13. Mr. Miller is one of the highly 
esteemed residents of South Bend, and is rightly considered a capable man of busi- 
ness. The South Bend National Bank transacts a general business, and we may be 
permitted in conclusion to hope that its good works will live with instead of after it. 
Adolphcs Eberhabt, Mishawaka, Ind. The family of the name of Eberhart, 
Everhart, Eberhardt. whichever way it may be written, probably came originally 
from Germany to America, and possibly there are thousands of the same name in 
both countries. Kev. Uriah Eberhart, of Chicago, 111., has compiled an interesting 
history of the family from A. D. 1265, to A. D. 1890, showing their mutations, in- 
crease, resemblances and dispersion, arguing that from their similarity of physical 
structure, mental acquirements and religious faith, that they all had one common 
parentage. In Germany he traced them back to the thirteenth century, when the 
family was of noble blood, well educated for the times and many of them holding 
offices of high degree in church and state. They nearly aU belonged to the Lu- 
theran Church, one of the Eberharts greatly assisting Luther himself in the work of 
the Reformation. It would be impossible, in an article of the present kind, to give 
the various histories connected with this remarkable family, but we may at least out- 
line some of the distinguished former members. Eberhard the Noble was a Bavar- 
ian, born March 13, 1265, and both his father and mother were members of the 
royal family. He was one of the most daring and successful warriors of Wirten- 
berg and established that kingdom. His son ITriah succeeded him on the throne, 
and his son Eberhard the Good died June 5, 1325, after reigning nearly forty-six 
years. Eberhard the MUd was the great-grandson of Eberhard the Noble and 
commenced to reign about 1392, continuing about twenty-tive years. His son 
Eberhard the Younger died after a comparatively short reign; Duke Eberhart the 
Third began his reign about 1633 and reigned about forty-one years, and Duke Leo- 
pold Eberhard, who died in 1723, was the last reigning duke of Wirtenberg. The 
throne was lost partly by his own improper conduct, but principally through the 
strife then existing between the Catholics and Protestants. In view of all the dis- 
turbances of the times, many of the family decided to leave the Fatherland and 
seek their fortunes and greater civil and religious freedom in the wilds of America. 
Hence, quite a number of them emigrated to this country Ijetween 1725 and 1750, 
coming mostly from Wirtenberg and surrounding provinces, and settled principally 
in Pennsylvania, becoming there sturdy pioneers and substantial farmers. Many of 
their descendants have become prominent and leading men in all walks of life. 
They are a numerous and enduring race and many of the representatives are scat- 
tered through the West. Adolphus Eberhart, the grandfather of our subject, came 
to America between 1775—7. He was the son of John Adam Eberhart. Duke of Al- 
sace. German tradition says that his father, John Adam, the Duke, was very 
wealthy, being the owner of extensive glass works and large tracts of laud. He ap- 
pointed his brother, Philip of Wirteuljerg. as administrator of his estates, and 
Philip so managed matters that he made his son the inheritor of the title and the 



674 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

greater part of the lands. Thus the heirs of the real duke were defrauded out of 
their inheritance. Adolphus was born January 4, 1760, and consequently was 
about eighteen years of age when he came to this country from Carlruhe, Baden. 
He immediately enlisted in the army and was all through the Revolutionary war, 
being a brave soldier and fighting under General La Fayette. At one time he as- 
sisted in carrying the General off the field, where he had been severely wounded, and 
did not see him again until January, 1825, when he met him at Albert Gallatin's 
home near New Geneva, and in recognition they embraced each other. After the 
war Adolphus returned to his trade of glass blowing, and after some experiments in 
Baltimore, in connection with a man by the name of Johnson, he and his brother 
Martin with other friends, went to Frederick City, Md., and for a time carried on 
the glass business. There he was married to a Miss Sophia, daughter of David and 
Elizabeth (Brandenburg) Speelman, who was born February 7, 1770, and was an 
excellent woman. Some time after the close of the war Adolphus and his friends 
moved from Frederick City to a place called New Geneva, Fayette county, Penn., and 
bought land of Hon. Albert Gallatin and established the first extensive glass works 
west of the Alleghany Mountains. He was a good general scholar and although he 
had a German brogue when speaking English, he was, nevertheless, an intelligent, 
active business man for his years. For a long time he carried on an extensive glass 
manufacturing establishment. Both he and his good wife were members of the 
Lutheran Church and were noted for their tine musical ability. He died in 1828, 
aged sixty eight years. They had the following children: Martin Adolphus, who 
died in childhood; Charles, born February 18, 1789, and married Miss Minnie Kirk- 
wood, of Mapleton, Penn. ; Sophia A. ; Margaret E. ; Christian E. ; George Frederick; 
Anna; Henry; John L. ; Louis A. and Rev. Albert G. George Frederick Eberhart, 
son of Adolphus, was born March 30, 1797, in Greenburg, Greene county, Penn., and 
received the limited common-school education of the day. He learned the business 
of glass blowing of his father, many of the Eberharts following this business. He 
married Betsy Weltner, of the same neighborhood, and to them were born twelve 
children: Jacob, Sophia, Adolphus, John, Robert Charles and Charles Robert (twins). 
Christian, Albert, Elizabeth Frederick, Fraidi and James. Soon after marriage Mr. 
Eberhart; moved to the State of New York and settled in the town of Clyde. Wayne 
county, where he engaged in his trade and lived until 1827, when he removed to 
Geneva, N. Y. , and soon after bought a farm in Yates county, although he contin- 
ued to work at his trade in Geneva. He finally retired from this business aud lived 
on his farm. In 1832 he removed to Greene county, Penn., where his father had 
owned a large tract of coal and iron lands. Mr. Eberhart bought out all of the heirs 
except one, but not being able to complete the purchase of the property he remained 
but one year. For the following two years he lived in Yates county, and in the 
spring of 1836 came with his family to St. Joseph county, Ind., and settled on the 
St. Joseph River, two miles north of Mishawaka, entering nearly 400 acres of land, 
making the journey to this county with two double horse teams, the snow being live 
feet deep when he started and the wagons were put on runners. The roads were 
good until Ashtabula was reached, when the snow disappeared and the remainderof 
the journey was made on wheels. The land which Mr. Eberhart entered was called 
Oak Openings, and presented a beautiful appearance, the large oak trees standing at 
a considerable distance apart, causing it to resemble an orchard. As there was little 
underbrush a large variety of wild flowers grew in this wood, while deer, wild turkey, 
squirrels and other game abounded. In their season the wild pigeons were in count- 
less numbers. A pigeon roost was within one aud one half miles of their settlement, 
and millions of these birds would fly to this roost at night. The land on which Mr. 
Eberhart settled is still in the hands of his heirs, and the primitive log cabin which he 
first built had neither doors nor windows, as glass could not be obtained at that time 
at Mishawaka. which village had then Imt one store, that of the St. Joseph Iron 
Company. There was but one settler near Mr. Eberhart and there was a small set- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 675 

tlement at Pleasant Valley. After a few years Mr. Eberbait built a good frame 
bouse and two good barns, wbicb are still standing. A good farm was cleared up, 
witb tbe assistance of bis sons, consisting of 200 acres. Botb Mr. and Mrs. 
Eberbart were devout members of tbe Metbodist Cburcb, and be was a local 
preacber wbile living in tbe State of New York. In conjunction witb Ricbmond 
Tuttle and James Pembrook be organized tbe First Metbodist Cburcb, in wbicb Mr. 
Eberbart was local preacber and class-leader for many years, contributing liberally 
of bis means to support tbe cburcb. His bouse was tbe bome of tbe itinerant 
Metbodist preacbers of tbose early days wbo were tbe founders of Metbodism in 
Indiana. Mr. Eberbart was a good, substantial, pioneer citizen, took great interest 
in public improvements and gave bis cbiidren a fair education for tbose days. In 
politics be was an old line Wbig, but afterward became a staucb Republican. He 
died at tbe age of seventy-two years, a man of powerful constitution, wbo was 
never sick in bis life and wbo never missed a meal until bis last sickness. He 
was a successful bunter, very fond of game and enjoyed bunting it. For borses be 
had a great affection, and in bis early days kept fast ones, and wben living in tbe 
State of New York bad some very valuable ones for bis times; but wben be became 
a religious man be sold off bis borses. He was respected by all wbo knew bim as 
a moral, upright, pioneer citizen. Through life be was very positive in his convic- 
tions and died a sincere Christian, in 1S69. The children of George Frederick 
Eberbart married and settled as follows: Jacob Weltner, born March 11, ISl'J, in 
Greenboro, Penn., was a young man of seventeen years of age wben he came to 
Penn township, and married Louisa Ferris, born at Waterloo, N. Y., and to 
them were born three children — Sarah L. , who died at the age of six years; 
Anna M., who died at tbe age of two years, and Charles H. wbo is now a 
farmer, married and settled on a farm north of Misbawaka. Jacob W. became 
a substantial farmer and died on the farm where his sou now resides, aged sixty- 
seven years, bis death occurring September 6, 18S6. Sophia Eberbart, daughter of 
George Frederick, married Elias Cook, a farmer of Penn township, sou of an old 
pioneer, and to them were born James, Anna (who died at the age of fourteen years), 
Arthur, Harriet, George and Sophia. Mr. Cook died on his farm at about fifty-eight 
years of age. He was a minister in tbe Metbodist Church. Mrs. Cook married for 
her second husband John Ruddock, a farmer of Sumption Prairie, and he died at 
about the age of seventy-one years. Mrs. Ruddock married for her third husband 
George Barnes, and they reside at Walkerton, Ind. A full sketch of Adolphus, the 
next child, will be given below. John H. was born on a farm in Yates county, 
October 8, 1825, and came to this county when eleven years of age. He married 
Mary A. Pembrook, but no cbiidren were born of this marriage and she died in 1857. 
In 1859 be married Mary McCann, and to them were born two daughters: Harriet 
A. aud Nellie M. Mrs. Eberbart died December, 1890. Mr. Eberbart is a sub- 
stantial citizen and is one of tbe owners of the flouring-mill at Misbawaka. Robert 
Charles, a son of Frederick George Eberbart, was born April 9, 1828, became a 
farmer and married Lucy Landfere, in September, 1856. They bad one son. 
Palmer A. , born March 2, 1858, but the mother died two weeks later. Mr. Eberbart 
married June 28, 1860, Rachel Stair, and to them were born three children: Susan 
E., born March 1, 1862; Emma E., born April 15, 1864, and Dessie C, born Sep- 
tember 4, 1866. Mr. Eberbart is a prosperous farmer and a respected citizen of 
Penn township. Charles Robert, son of Frederick George and twin brother of 
tbe al)ove, married Harriet Corp, March 15, 1858, and they are the parents of 
six cbiidren: Harry H. , Eva M. , Sylvia B., All)ert R. and Leo B. Tbe son 
Albert, was drowned in the St. Joseph River on the evening of December 3, 1884, 
wbile fishing, at the age of twenty-six years. He was a young man of fine char- 
acter. Mr. Eberbart is, like tbe rest of his family, a trustworthy and honorable 
citizen and a practical farmer, residing in Penn township. Christian and Albert 
were also sons of Frederick George. Elizabeth married George Bryerson, a farm- 



676 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

er now retired and living in Elkbart. They are the parents of Frank, William, 
Adelia and Arthur. Frederick, Frank and James were the other children of Fred- 
erick George and a sketch of the former appears in this volume. Adolphus 
Eberhart, the son of Frederick George, and our subject, is one of the prominent pio- 
neer manufacturers of Mishawaka, a substantial citizen and an honored and re- 
spected man. Adolphus was born February 11, 1824, at Clyde, Wayne Co., N. 
y., and was twelve years of age when he came to St. Joseph county with his parents 
and can well remember the journey. He received the common education of those 
pioneer days and was reared a farmer. He narrowly escaped becoming a physician, 
as he had decided to adopt that profession, but his plans were changed by the re- 
moval of Dr. Crawford from Mishawaka, with whom he was to have studied. This 
was a great disappointment to young Eberhart, as he felt a desire to become a disciple 
of iEsculapius, believing that he had a natural aptitude for that profession. How- 
ever, he learned the trade of wagon and carriage-maker, and at the early age of 
twenty-one years engaged in this business in company with Albert Cass, of Mishawaka, 
one of the old settlers. They continued in the business four years, having associated 
with them John Miles, and in 1864 they built a large flouring-mill, which was then 
one of the largest and best in the West. Mr. Eberhart managed this mill until 1887, 
and still retains a one-third interest in it. In 188G he organized the Mishawaka 
Woolen Manufacturing Company with a capital stock of $200,0(10, with M. V. 
Beiger as president, F. G. Eberhart, Jr., as vice-president, J. C. Eberhart, Jr., as 
secretary, and Marvin Campbell as treasurer. The directors are C. Studebaker, 
J. M. Studebaker, M. V. Beiger, A. Eberhart and Marvin Campbell. Mr. Eberhart 
had invented an all knit-wool boot and a one-half interest in the patent was sold to 
the company for $100,000. The Ijoot is a joint invention of Mr. Eberhart abd Mr. 
Beiger, and as the business progressed, as many as one dozen patents have been 
taken out and large and convenient shops have been erected, two of them very large and 
three stories high; another, 32x50, and three stories high; and still another 90x32, 
three stories high, besides other buildings such as boiler-house, dry kilns, etc. The 
company does an annual business of .1200.000; employs from 140 to 150 persons and 
is a very important industry. This is the only all knit- wool boot made in the world. 
Besides these interests, Mr. Eberhart owns and rents four farms, aggregating 480 
acres of tine farming land. From ISGO to 1862 Mr. Eberhart erected a commodious 
brick residence on East Second street, in which he still resides. On April 25, 1847, 
he married Sarah A. Boyd, born January 28, 1829, at Lynchburg, Va. , daughter of 
James and Ann (Eohr) ]3oyd. James Boyd was born in 1807, in West Virginia, of 
an old colonial family, of Irish descent. He was a carpenter by trade and came to 
Mishawaka, in 1837, and was well known among the old pioneers. He passed the 
remainder of his days in this town, living to the age of sixty-three years. Both he 
and his wife were members of the Methodist Church, he being one of its founders 
in this town. He was the father of eight children, as follows: Sarah A., Elizabeth, 
Lucinda, Margaret, John W., James C, Robert F. and Charles. In politics he 
was iirst an old line Whig, but at the organization of the Republican party, united 
with that. He had three sons in the great Civil war: John, who was in the Eighty- 
seventh Regiment I. V. I.; James C, who was in the one-hundred day service, 
and Robert F., who was in Company I, Ninth Regiment I. V. I., who was one of 
the first to enlist in the first company that went from Mishawaka. He died in 1861, 
at Cheat Mountain, W. Va. (For more complete history of the Boyd family 
see sketch of John W. Boyd.) To Mr. and Mrs. Adolphus Eberhart have been born 
six children: Ida L. , who died at the age of twenty-nine, having married, and left 
two children; Flora G.; James C. ; Frederick G. ; William, who died at the age of 
seven years, and Everett G. Mr. and Mrs. Eberhart are members of the Methodist 
Church, in which he has held the ofiices of steward and class-leader. Politically he 
is a stanch Republican, and was one of the founders of the party in the county. 
He has always been a public-spirited man, in favor of all things conducive to the 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 67T 

improvement of his county, but so man}' of the private enterprises in which he is 
engaged engross his attention to such a degree that he has always declined public 
office. Possessing the confidence of the people he might have aspired to any office, 
but has only accepted the presidency of the Board of Township Trustees. Perhaps 
there is no man now living in Mishawaka, who has been more fully identified with its 
business interests, or who has, for more years, been so active and efficient a business 
man. He began when a mere boy, and has always pursi^ed an enterprising, ener- 
getic and honorable business course which, in his old age, he still continues with 
unabated vigor, having but recently originated an enterprise, unique in its character, 
of practical and substantial benefit, not only to himself, but to his fellow-townsmen. 
Through his long career his integrity has been unimpeached and his manly course 
in life should be emulated by his descendants. 

Geokge W. Shock, manufacturer of paint mixers and special machinery, has a 
well-appointed establishment at the foot of Washington, on West Race street, and 
can claim more than his proportionate share of popularity among the business men 
of South Bend, for he has been a resident of the town ever since his birth, Septem- 
ber 30, 1859, during which time naught has ever been said derogatory to his honor. 
His parents, Jeremiah and Caroline (Eulon) Shock, are of German-French descent, 
the birth of the former occurring in Pennsylvania in 1828. In 1843, or when 
fifteen years of age, he came to South Bend and engaged in blacksmithing and 
horse-shoeing in partnership with his brother Daniel — with whom he learned his 
trade. He later opened a little establishment of his own and manufactured the first 
steel plow ever made in the town. Their shop was located on the corner where the 
new elegant Presbyterian Church stands, but in 1819, having been taken with severe 
cases of the "gold fever" they sold out and crossed the plains to California, making 
the journey by wagons. During the three or four years that Jeremiah remained in 
the West he was engaged in mining, but upon returning to South Bend he resumed 
blacksmithing, which business he successfully carried on for several years. He then 
went to work for Oliver, Bissell & Little and later for the Oliver Plow Works, and 
did all the work for the water-works stand pipe. He was considered one of the 
most skillful blacksmiths in the county, and his services were at all times in requisi- 
tion. He died in July, 1890, but his widow and six children survive him, the names 
of the latter being Frank, George W., Flora, Lewis, John and Charles. George 
W. Shock was educated in the schools of South Bend, and in his youth learned the 
carriage -finishing business, and later the machinist's trade. In April, 1889, he 
started in business for himself and has since continued with success, for he is a fine 
mechanic himself and employs none but skilled and experienced workmen. He has 
a reputation of a high order for making a very superior grade of paint mixers and 
special machinery, and none but the very best articles are sent out from his estab- 
lishment. Mr. Shock is the owner of some valuable real estate in the city and is in 
good circumstances financially. He is a Democrat politically, and socially is a mem- 
ber of the Royal Arcanum. In 1880 he was married to Miss Lura Jacjuith, by whom 
he has two children: Olive, aged ten years, and George A., Jr., aged one year. 

Abraham Shank, who for many years was a resident of Harrison township, and 
who died in the month of January, 1889, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, in 
February, 1831, a son of Samuel and Catherine (Barrick) Shank, who were early 
residents of Montgomery county, Ohio, and there reared a family of four children: 
Noah, Abraham. Daniel and Mary. All these children reached mature years but the 
daughter died when a young lady. After the death of the father in Ohio the mother 
came to Elkhart county, Ind., and was here married to Jacob Dillman, but both 
are now deceased. Her eldest child, Noah, settled in Harrison township of this 
county, reared a family and all his children are living in that township, some on 
the old home place; Daniel lives in Michigan, a man of family; Abraham came 
to this county with his mother in 1860 and settled on the farm where his son John 
and his family are living. He married after coming here, Miss Catherine F. W^hey- 



678 PICTORIAL AND BIOGItAl'IIICAL 

mer, who was born in Philadelphia, Penn., and died \a May, 1885, her parents 
being Frederick and Catherine (Henniug) Wheymer. Mrs. Shank came to this 
county with her parents in an early day and settled in Harrison township and the 
father died in this county, the mother being still a resident of Goshen. Mrs. 
Shank was one of a large family of children: Catherine L., Emma, Maggie, Lina, 
Sophia, Sadie, William, Frederick and George, two of whom are living in Goshen. 
Mrs. Shank is the only one out of this family that is deceased. Abraham Shank 
was married in Elkhart county and settled on the farm in Harrison township, where 
he followed farming for some time. In politics he was with the Democratic 
party and in religion has been connected with the Lutheran Church. He was a 
reliable and substantial citizen and held a number of offices in the township, all of 
which he has tilled in a very satisfactory manner. He was always active in assisting 
every good enterprise, but his means were not decreased thereby for he became 
the owner of a good farm of 200 acres, which farm is as well improved as any 
place in the county. He was an energetic, pushing man of business, and his 
prosperity was well merited. His children are as follows: Clara, who was born 
April 13, 1862; John C. , was born March 26, 1864, is married to Alice "Bechter, 
a daughter of Henry Bechter and they have one boy, Ernest, who was born Febru- 
ary 7, 1891 (John attended the district schools and grew up on the old home farm, 
assisting his father in the work of the farm and after his marriage lived for two 
years on the farm of Henry Bechtel. He is a Democrat politically, is a public- 
spirited young man, and is now engaged in general farming and stockraising); 
Emma is the next in order of birth, was married in 1866, and is the wife of David 
Bechtel; Louis, whose birth came next, is living in Goshen, working in the hard- 
ware store of that place (he is married to Miss Norah Swartz, a daughter of a 
prominent citizen of the county, and in politics is a Democrat); Harley was born No- 
vember 28, 1871, has assumed part of the management of the home farm, is a well 
informed young man, and politically is a Democrat; Josephine, was born in 1873; 
Ada; Catherine; Sadie, who died in 1880, and Lula. The father and mother were 
lifelong members of the Lutheran Church, were worthy, honest and upright people 
who endeavored to live correct lives and, judging by the high respect in which they 
were held and by the numerous friends they gathered about them, evidently did so. 
H. B. App. Among the most noted and representative business men of the flour- 
ishing city of Bristol, Ind. , stands the name of H. B. App, whose high reputation and 
material prosperity came as the reward of unusual natural abilities, industriously ap- 
plied. He is now a prominent merchant of that city, has a good share of patronage 
and support, and as he is a gentleman of keen business ability, and keeps none but 
the best of goods, his trade has increased in a very flattering manner. He is a na- 
tive of the Keystone State, born in Snyder county April 26, 1852, and is a son of 
John H. and Sarah A. (Bassler) App, both natives of Snyder county, Penn. This 
family is of German descent and its members were early pioneers of Snyder county. 
The father of our subject was a farmer by occupation, and continued to till the soil 
in his native State until 1861, when he came to Indiana, locating one and a half miles 
west of Bristol, where he purchased a farm on which he lived for a number of years. 
The mother passed away in 1874 and the father followed her to the grave in 1888. 
They were the parents of two sons, H. B. and D. \V., the latter station agent at 
Quincy, Mich. H. B. App was but nine years of age when he came with his parents 
to this county, and his educational advantages were received in the public schools. 
He grew to manhood on the home place and continued to assist his father in tilling 
the soil until 1883, when he began clerking for W. R. Merritt, with whom he con- 
tinued until 1890. At that time he embarked in merchandising for himself and now 
has one of the best stocked general stores in Bristol. He carries a general line of 
all kinds of merchandise and is a man of excellent business qualifications and good 
habits. He was president of the board of health for one term, and for one term was 
town trustee. He selected his life companion in the person of Miss Sarah Rough, and 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIAyA. 679 

their marriage was celebrated in ISTo. This union resulted in the birth of two 
sons and a daughter: Fred H., Earl B. and Jessie M. In his political affiliations 
Mr. App is a Democrat and takes a great interest in his party, being one of the 
leaders of the same in his community. He is the present chancellor commander of 
the Knights of Pythias Lodge at Bristol, and is as generous a friend and genial 
companion as one could wish to meet. 

D. B. I. ScHAFER. In the whole range of commercial enterprise no interest is 
of more importance than that respecting the sale of groceries. This fact is recog- 
nized and appreciated by all thoughtfid people, and therefore the matter of the 
selection of a dealer from whom to purchase our supplies calls for careful consid- 
eration and discriminating judgment. In this connection it is with genuine pleas- 
ure that attention is called to the well-known and reliable house of D. B. I. Sehafer, 
whose place of business is located at 201 North Michigan street and 107-109 Colfax 
avenue, South Bend, Ind. Being conducted on sound mercantile principles and its 
management characterized by energj"^ and ability, Mr. Sehafer has from the start 
enjoyed a large and prosperous trade, the unequivocal excellence of the goods 
handled, coupled with upright and honorable dealing, being among the special 
features contributing to the positive and permanent success that has attended the 
enterprise from its inception. Mr. Sehafer was born in Cleveland. Ohio, Februar}' 
21, 1858, a son of Christian and Catherine (Ahr) Sehafer, natives of Germany, the 
former of whom sailed for America when nineteen years of age and located in the 
vicinity of Cleveland, where he worked out by the day on a farm. About 1862 
he removed to Adams county, Ind., where he purchased a farm, on which he 
remained until 1881, when the city of South Bend became his home and remained 
such until his death, in 1889. His widow, who has been a resident of this country 
since she was three years of age, and eight children, survive him. the names of the 
latter being as follows: John, of Elkhart, Ind.: Mrs. Rev. B, Ruh; Jacob and 
Fred, of Adams county. Ind. : Mrs. H. Fulke, of South Bend; David B. I. ; Edward 
and Dr. A. F. One child, named Anna, is deceased. D. B. I. Sehafer was brought 
up oil a farm in -Adams county, Ind., in the district schools of which he received 
his education. After moving to Decatur, Ind., he was employed in the Grand Rap- 
ids & Indiana Railroad oflSce for about four years, but after coming to South Bend 
he secured employment in the wagon works of Studebaker Bros. , where he remained 
a short time. He was next employed in the grocery house of Tobias Sterns, with 
whom he remained one year, after which he embarked in the grocery business in 
partnership with E. T. Ivins, the name of which firm remained Sehafer & Ivins for 
four years, when Mr. Sehafer bought his partner's interest and has since continued 
the business alone. In 1889 he moved to his present stand, where he keeps a 
large stock of choice and fresh groceries, for which his prices are very reasonable. 
Mr. Sehafer started out in life without means, but energy has prevailed and he 
has now at his command a comfortable competency and numerous friends. He 
landed in South Bend with only .SI. 50 in money and a total stranger to every one, 
but he possessed those genial qualities which soon win friends, and the sturdy per- 
severance and industry which can not fail to sooner or later bring the possessor 
wealth. He is still a young man, and will, without doubt, be a wealthy man 
before the winter of old age has laid its whitening touch on his hair. He is 
highly esteemed in the social circles of South Bend, and is a member of the fol- 
lowing fraternities: The I. O. O. F., in which he has passed all the chairs and 
was trustee of South Bend Lodge, No. 29; South Bend Encampment, No. 9, for 
four years, and was captain of the South Bend Canton, No. 9 for four j-ears; Cru- 
sade Lodge, No. 14, and South Bend Division, No. 21. U. R. of the K. of P.; 
Shipshewana Tribe. No. 12, I. O. R. M. : South Bend Council. No. 347, Roval Arca- 
num: South Bend Lodge, No. 294. F. & A. M. ; South Bend Chapter. No. 29, R. A. 
M. : South Bend Commandery, No. 13, K. T. and the Order of Elks. He has 
been captain of the Uniform Rank of the K. of P. for six years and is prominent 



680 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

in all the societies to which he belongs. In May, 1892, he made the race for 
mayor and cut down the Democratic majority from 876 to 36, thus showing that 
he had numerous admirers and friends. 

Harvey W. Kantz, township trustee, attorney at law and insurance agent of 
Bristol, Ind., was born in Snyder county, Penn. , October 31, 1863, and is a son of 
Simon B. and Sarah (Wetzel) Kantz, natives of the same county in Pennsylvania and 
of German ancestry. Our subject's maternal grandfather, Henry Wetzel, was a rel- 
ative of Daniel Boone's companion, Lewis Wetzel, who was a noted Indian fighter 
during pioneer days. The grandfathers on both sides were farmers, but were also 
mechanics and gunsmiths. Simon B. Kantz followed agricultural pursuits as his 
chosen calling and died May 1, 1872, having passed his entire life in his native 
county. His widow is still living and resides at Freeburg, Snyder Co. , Penn. Two 
sons and six daughters were born to this worthy couple, six of whom are now living. 
The fourth in order of birth of this family, Harvey W. Kantz, was reared in his 
native county and there received the principal part of his education, graduating from 
Freeburg Academy in the fall of 1882 with first honors. He had made up his mind 
to come west after graduating, and this he accordingly did, arriving in Danville, 
Ind., in the fall of that year. After attending the Indiana Normal School for a short 
time he came to Bristol and the following spring went to Valparaiso, Ind., where he 
attended school, taking one course. Returning to Bristol he taught three terms of 
school in that vicinity, but during intervals attended the Indiana State University, 
located at Bloomington. In 1886 he went to Florida and located at Bartow, where 
he was engaged in teaching school. After spending nearly two years in the sunny 
South he returned to Bristol, thence to Goshen, where he studied law with Wilson & 
David and was admitted to the bar. He subsequently located at Bristol and has 
practiced his profession here since. He taught two terms of school on returning to 
Bristol, but the principal part of his time and attention is given to his profession. 
He has been successful in his practice and has achieved prominence and distinction 
as a member of the bar. He was elected township trustee in April, 1890, and has 
been city treasurer for one term. On the 5th of March, 1884, he married Miss Laura 
B. Mitchell, by whom he has one daughter, Ruth V. Socially he is a member of 
the I. O. O. F. and K. of P. Mr. Kantz is a rising young man, who bids fair to 
make his way in the world and is classed among the best citizens of Elkhart county. 

Rev. a. B. Chaffee is probably one of the most prominent clergymen in the city 
of South Bend, having charge of the First Baptist Church in this place. As a pastor 
he gets very near to his people, and has ever sought to develop the highest type of 
social life of the church. He has made himself the personal friend of each member 
of the church, sympathizing with them in trouble and rejoicing with them in their glad- 
ness. He was born in Philadelphia, Penn., June 19, 1852, a son of James and Har- 
riet (Billings) Chaffee, natives of Springfield, Mass., and Somerville, Conn., respect- 
ively, the latter's birth occurring at what was known as Billings' Mills. The Chaf- 
fees are of English origin, and their genealogy is traced back to the latter part of the 
seventeenth century. The paternal grandfather, Elam Chaffee, was a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war, and the majority of the members of the family were farmers and 
mechanics. For several years the grandfather and father of the subject of this 
sketch worked in the armory at Springfield, Mass., but the former was called from 
this life in the State of Connecticut. James Chaffee was a merchant in Philadelphia 
for over thirty years, having gone there when a young man, but in 1866 he removed 
to Saratoga Springs, N. Y. , where he resided for about nine years, a portion of which 
time he was engaged in keeping hotel. He then removed to Union, N. J., twelve 
miles from the city of New York, and there lived retired from the active duties of 
life, dying in the fall of 1880, his widow surviving him until 1889, her death occurring 
at Franklin, Ind. They were the parents of three sons: Edward J., a wholesale dry 
goods merchant of New York City; Theodore S.,of Avondale, N. J., and Rev. A. B., 
of South Bend. The latter was a resident of the city of "Brotherly Love" until 



MEMOIRS OF I y DIANA. 681 

twelve years of age, aud was an attendant of the public schools of that city. Upon 
the removal of his parents to Saratoga Springs, he entered the Williston Seminary, 
at East Hampton, Mass., from which institution he graduated in 1869 in the scien- 
tific course. He was then in business with his brother in New York City for one 
year, at the end of which time he began fitting himself for college in Saratoga in 
1870-2, entering the University of Rochester in the last mentioned year, in which 
he remained until the spring of 1874. He then met with an accident and was com- 
pelled to return home. In the fall of that year he entered the University of New 
Jersey, at Princeton, and graduated from that noted institution of learning in 1876. 
The three succeeding years were spent in the Rochester Theological Seminary, where 
he completed his studies in 1879, after which he immediately came West, and was 
professor of Latin, language and literature of Franklin (Indiana) College, aud pro- 
fessor of chemistry and physics from 1887 to 1889 in the same institution. From 
June to September, 1887, he took a term in chemistry at Harvard university, and 
from 1889 to 1890 he was pastor of the First Baptist Church of Seymour, Ind. In 
September of the latter year he was called to South Bend, and has since ably filled 
the pulpit of the First Baptist Church. Mr. Chaffee is a well-educated gentleman, 
possesses a fine and original mind, and is a fluent, forcible and eloquent speaker. 
He has a large and select congregation, the membership of which has greatly increased 
since he took charge, and many valuable improvements in the church have been made. 
Mr. Chaffee is a member of the Greek Delta Psi, and has been a member of the Cli- 
osophic, of Princeton, N. J. , Indiana Academy of Science, the American Association 
of Science, K. O. T. M. , the Humane Society and the Y. M. C. A. He takes a deep 
interest in the moral, spiritual, intellectual and social life of the city, and is doing 
all in his power to improve the tone of society. He is recording secretary of the 
Indiana Baptist State Convention. In May, 1879, he was married to Miss Laura 
Putnam, of Saratoga Springs, N. Y. , and of seven children born to them six are liv- 
ing: Harold P., Eleanor B., James F., Arthur B., Jr., Margaret C, Mary E. 
(deceased) aud Laurence E. 

Isaac N. Alverson. No better class of citizens came to the United States than 
those who emigrated from bonny Scotland, and who brought, as their inheritance 
from Highland ancestors, the traits of character and life which have ever distinguished 
that race. The Alversons came originally from Scotland and were early settlers of 
York State. The paternal grandfather, William Alverson, was a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war and during his younger days was a merchant in Utica, N. Y. 
He built the second log cabin in that city and there made his home until his death. 
He was a very prominent man. His son, William, was born in the Empire State 
and cultivated the soil there until 1836, when he came to Indiana and located in 
what is now Bristol. He came by way of the Erie Canal and lakes to Detroit, and 
from there to Bristol by wagon. Purchasing a farm near the town he began clear- 
ing it of the heavy timber with which it was covered and erected a cheap board 
house, in which he and his family lived until they could make better improvements. 
He crossed the plains to California in 1849, and was interested in mining for four 
years. Then returning to Indiana he made his home in Elkhart county until his 
death, in 1878. He was married in his native State to Miss Ellen Brace, who sur- 
vived him until 1880. To them were given seven children, six living, as follows: 
Chloe. wife of Homer Adams; Isaac M. ; Cornelia, widow of S. B. Romaine; Benja- 
min; Lewis and Theodore. Mrs. Alverson was of German descent and the daughter 
of Benjamin Brace, who followed the occupation of an agriculturist and owned a 
farm four miles from Utica, N. Y., on which one of his daughters resides at the pres- 
ent time. Our subject was born in Utica, N. Y. , January 2, 1825, and when about 
eleven years of age came with his parents to Elkhart county, and received such edu- 
cation as the schools of that day afforded. He was obliged to work hard to clear up 
the new farm, and schooling was not considered an absolute necessity in those days. 
He remained under the paternal roof until 1850 and then, with a company, he crossed 



683 PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

the plains to California, being sis months ou the road. This company was com- 
posed of men of courage and determination, and fear never entered tlieir minds, 
although a company behind them was massacred by the Indians, none escaping 
except one boy. Mr. Alverson spent twenty-one years in the Western States and 
Territories and was in all except Alaska. He mined for three years, but the 
balance of his time was devoted to the saw-mill and stock business. He experi- 
enced many hardships, for the country was very wild and the Indians savage and 
treacherous, and his partner, George Fairbanks, was killed by the Indians in Idaho 
while prospecting. Mr. Alverson also had two men who were working for him 
killed, and had many narrow escapes himself. In the fall of 1871 he returned to 
Bristol a wiser man and full of experience, and it all seems like a ilream to him. 
On his return here he engaged in his present business and has eontiuiied the same 
ever since. He is a good, law-abiding citizen and has many warm friends. He has 
accumulated considerable property and is in easy circumstances. Charitable and 
liberal to all, the poor and afflicted are never sent empty-handed from his door. Mr. 
Alverson was married in 1872 to Miss Catherine Fulk, by whom he has four chil- 
dren: Irene, Matie, Carl and Benjamin. In poli ics Mr. Alverson is an ardent sup- 
porter of Democratic principles. 

Maktin I. McDonald is the third child of the old pioneer citizen, John I. 
McDonald, of whom mention is made in this work. Martin was born in Clark 
county, Ohio, on April 2, 1855, but since his third year he has been a resident of 
Elkhart count}-, Ind. , and has always warmly identified himself with the interests 
of this section. He obtained his education in the district schools of Southwest and 
Harrison township, and his early career was not materially different from the most 
of farmers' boys, for as soon as old enough various farm duties were assigned him. 
In this manner he became thoroughly familiar with the work, and at the age of 
twenty-three years he started out to do for himself, and being an industrious, hon- 
est and self-reliant young man, he was successful in accumulating means. He 
followed threshing for a number of years in addition to tilling the soil, and in 
this manner obtained a good start in life, sufficiently so to warrant him taking a 
wife, which he did in 1888, Miss Sarah E. Bechtel, a daughter of Daniel Bechtel, 
becoming the partner of his joys and sorrows. Since their marriage they have 
lived on the old Bechtel homestead, which they own and which they are putting in 
good repair. This is one of the oldest farms in the county and has been the home 
of the Bechtel family for many years. Mr. McDonald is an honor to the calling 
which he represents, and is a living illustration of what may be accomplished by a 
young man who is determined to surmount the difficulties which strew the pathway 
of all live business men. He is interested in the raising of stock and grain and 
owing to the earnest attention which he gives to each he is successful in each branch. 
His judgment has led him to support the Republican party on all occasions and he 
has proven himself a public-spirited, wide-awake young man, alive to his own and 
his county's interests. He is of the stuff of which sterling citizens are made and he 
and his wife have a large circle of friends and acquaintances. They have one child, 
Noah. Mrs. McDonald was the seventh child born to her parents, was born on 
September 20, 1858, and was reared on the old home farm of her father, Daniel 
Bechtel, which is her home at the present time. 

Edgene Atkins. When a grain of wheat is cut across the middle and examined 
under a glass, the central parts are found to be composed of a white substance; if 
the grain is dry this interior readily becomes a pearly powder. Near the outside of 
the kernel the texture is more compact, and at the surface it becomes horny. This 
added firmness is produced by the increasing quantity of gluten, as the analysis 
advances from center to circumference. Understanding the structure of the grain, 
it has been the object of the miller to separate the various parts so as to get different 
grades of flour. It is the gluten which gives flour its strongest property, and it is 
in the nice separation of this constituent that the roller process excels. As one of 



MEMOIIiS OF INDIAyA. 683 

the finest examples of the application of this process and machinery generally to the 
manufacture of line flour, the Bristol Roller Jlills of Bristol, Intl., command detailed 
mention. This extensive enterprise is conducted by E. Atkins, M. Stover and A. 
Stamp, and is equipped with all the modern machinery, roller process, and a lifty- 
horse-power engine. Mr. Atkins superintended the building of this mill in 1890, 
and at first it was a small frame structure. This year additions have been made as 
their business has increased so much as to make this necessary. Mr. Atkins is 
a practical miller, and was reared in the business. He was born in Ontario, 
in 1868, and his parents, George and Alice (Milroy) Atkins, were natives of Canada. 
They removed to Clare, Mich., in 1869, and there the father carried on a sash 
and blind factory, grocery, saw mill and lumber-yard. He carried on quite an 
extensive business, and died at Clare. His widow is still living, and makes her 
home in this city. Eugene Atkins was educated at Clare, Mich., in the public 
schools, and at an early age he learned milling and the millwright trade with Nor- 
dyke, Marmon &Co.. of Indianapolis, the largest milling firm in the world. He 
subsequently became superintendent for this firm and built mills for them in over 
half the States of the Union, some being very large ones. He was second foreman 
in the erection of some of the largest mills in the world. He remained with this 
company for eight years, commanded a large salary, and then thinking with his 
experience that he could do better if engaged in the business for himself, he planned 
the Bristol Roller Mills, and has sinbe been actively engaged in this occupation. 
This firm manufactures 100 barrels of flour per day. He took in two partners and 
they do nearly all their own work, except running the engine. Mr. Atkins is out on 
the road a portion of the time, and Mr. Stover is salesman, on the road, some of the 
time. On May 3. 1891, he was married to Miss Azia Stover, of Elkhart. He is a 
member of the I. O. O. F. , is a very enterprising young man, and is sure to succeed 
in life. 

Charles M. Collins, the master mechanic for the Studebaker Bros. Manufacturing 
Company at South Bend, Ind. , was born in Harmony, Me. . June 4, 1852. his parents, 
William and Mary (Sweeney) Collins, having been born in the Pine Tree State and 
Ireland respectively. The Collins family were early pioneers of the New England 
States, and the paternal and maternal grandparents spent the most of their lives and 
died in Maine, in which State William Collins was reared and followed farming until 
his death. His widow is now a resident of New Hampshire, and with four children 
survives him, the names of the latter being: A. C, of Hartford, Conn.; F. W., of 
Jefferson, N. H. : Charles M. and F. A., of Portland, Me. Charles M. Collins spent 
his early life in the State of his birth, and until sixteen years of age was an attend- 
ant of the public schools of his native place. He then began learning the trade of a 
mechanic, for which he seemed to have a natural inclination and a decided aptitude, 
and for two years thereafter was an apprentice of Henkley & Egery and Dalle Bros., 
of Bangor, Me. He then became very desirous of improving his education, and 
through his own efforts obtained sufficient means to permit him to enter college at 
Bucksport, Me., but unfortunately, on account of his father's death, he was c om- 
pelled to give up his course and return to the shop. He, however, did not confine 
himself to one particular establishment, but followed his trade in the principal cities 
throughout the New England States, nor to one particular class of work, but devoted 
his time to the various branches which was the means of perfecting his knowledge 
of every detail. In 1878 he came west to Elkhart. Ind., witb the expectation of 
going to work in the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern shops, but found that the 
chance of promotion was very doubtful, and he had no desire or intention of waiting 
for "dead men's shoes," so he gave up the idea and came to South Bend, and here 
soon after secured employment in the mammoth establishment of the Studebaker 
Bros. His mechanical skill was soon made manifest, and came to the notice of the 
members of the firm, who were sufficiently well versed in the details of the business 
to realize that he was an expert workman, and in 1888 his ability and faithfulness were 



684 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

rewarded b}- bis being made master mecbanic over tbe entire manufactory. Tbis very 
responsible position be bas filled witb undiminisbed zeal, faitbfulness and skill up 
to tbe present time, and be enjoys the entire confideace and respect of bis employers. 
He bas sixty men under bis supervision, over wbom bis rule is firm and absolute, 
yet ligbt In May, 1892, bis intelligence was furtber recognized by tbe townspeople, 
for be was elected one of tbe trustees of tbe City Water Works, in wbicb be bad been 
deeply interested from tbe tirst, and of wbicb be was one of tbe leading promoters. 
All matters tbat are calculated to benefit and improve tbe city find a generous and 
influential patron in Mr. Collins, and be is ia every sense of tbe word public-spirited. 
In 1881 be led to tbe altar Miss Lennie Allen, to wbom two sons bave been given: 
Fred and Homer. Mr. Collins is a Knigbt Templar in tbe A. F. & A. M. , is a 
member of tbe American Society of Mecbanical Engineers, and politically tbe prin- 
ciples of tbe Republican party bave always commended tbemselves to bis judgment. 
John Hay, wbo, for a number of years, bas lived in Harrison townsbip, Elkbart 
Co., lud., was born in Montgomery county, Obio, December 25, 1829, being tbe 
eldest of a family of seven cbildren reared by Michael and Christina (Crull) Hay, 
tbe former of whom was born in Bedford county, Penn., in 1806, his parents being 
Valentine and Esther (Martin) Hay. Valentine Hay was a Pennsylvanian by birth, 
whose father, Michael Hay, was a Hessian, and came to this country from Germany 
during tbe Revolutionary war. He was a worthy founder of tbe family in this 
country and reared four cbildren, of wbom Valentine, the grandfather of the sub- 
ject of tbis sketch, was one. Michael Hay was a tiller of tbe soil and he and bis 
wife died in Pennsylvania. Valentine attained manhood in the State of bis birth, 
learned the millwright's trade in bis youth, wbicb be afterward followed in con- 
nection witb farming. He was married in tbe Keystone State, and eight cbildren 
were tbe result of bis union, their names being as follows: John, wbo died in St. 
Joseph county, Ind. ; Michael; Mary, wbo was tbe wife of Noah Anderson, au early 
pioneer of Elkhart county; Barbara, who was the wife of Jonas Miller, of Elkhart 
county, and after his death became tbe wife of Samuel Fryman, of Harrison town- 
ship, both being deceased at the present time; Joseph, who died in Ohio; Hettie, 
who is tbe wife of Mr. Fryman, and is a resident of Obio; Abraham, who is living 
in Obio, Montgomery county; Isaac, who died in Montgomery county, Ohio. The 
father and mother lived and died in tbat county and State, also having for many 
years been members of tbe German Baptist Church. Tbe father passed from life 
in 1853, and tbe mother in 1863, at which time they were in good circumstances. 
Michael, the father of tbe subject of this biography, was educated and reared in 
Pennsylvania, and as be was reared to the duties of farm life, it was but natural 
that he should make that bis chief occupation after starting out in life for himself. 
After his removal to Obio, with bis parents, be married in that State, in 1828, and 
immediately thereafter settled in the woods of Montgomery county, on which he 
and his wife lived and died. They were members of the German Baptist Church, 
in which the father was an active worker. He was industrious, prudent and econom- 
ical, and with the valuable assistance of his worthy wife, be succeeded in accu- 
mulating a good property. He was a pronounced Jacksonian Democrat in bis 
political views, but later an espouser of the martyr President, Abraham Lincoln. 
He died in August, 1879, and bis widow, in 1SS9, six of the seven cbildren born to 
them surviving: John, the immediate subject of this sketch; Hattie, who is living 
near tbe old home in Montgomery county, is the wife of Samuel Erbaugb; 
Masolma is the wife of Noah King, and lives in Missouri; Joseph was, for many 
years, a resident of Elkbart county, Ind., died in 1890, and his widow and family 
are still living on the old homestead; Michael resides on tbe old home farm in 
Montgomery county, Ohio; Abraham also resides there, and Mary A. married 
George Arbaugh and lives in the vicmity of tbe old home in Ohio. All these sons 
are members of the German Baptist Church, and are prominent in the sections in 
which they reside. The early life of tbe subject of this sketch was spent in Mont- 



MEMOIliS OF INDIANA. 685 

gomery county, Ohio, and as be early commenced assisting his father in the duties 
of the farm, he received but limited school advantages. Knowing the advantage 
of a good education, he attended school after he was grown, and in this manner 
acquired a practical education. He remained at home until about twenty- four 
years of age, then was united in marriage with Mis-s Rachel, daughter of Samuel 
and Mary (Priser) Heistaud, (he former of whom was born in Maryland, in 1788, 
and died in 1853, at the age of sixty-five years. He was a farmer and school 
teacher by occupation, in politics was a ^Yhig, and prior to his death had prophesied 
the war of the Kebellion, but was strongly opposed to it. He was a man of su- 
perior knowledge, was a practical business man, and accumulated a good property. 
In every respect he was a gentleman of the old school. He was one of the early 
pioneers of Ohio, and was married in Montgomery county, of that State, where he 
lived for a number of years. In 1853 he sold his property there and while en route 
for Madison, Wis., with his family, died at the home of a brother-in-law in Ohio. 
His wife died in 1839, the mother of six children: Benjamin, who died in 1877, 
lived in Shelbyville, and died in Florida, a man of family and an ex-soldier of the 
Rebellion; Jesse died in 1880, in Crawford county, HI., leaving a family; Hiram 
was a man of family and died in Madison, Wis., in 1870, having also been a soldier 
of the Civil war; Rachel, the wife of Mr. Hay; Anna is the wife of Joseph Owines, 
and lives in Ohio; and Mary, who is married to J, Herring, is a resident of the 
Hoosier State. Mrs. Hay was only sis years old when her mother died, but in 
Montgomery county, Ohio, she grew to maturity and married. She and her bus- 
baud have long been members of the German Baptist Church, and since 1856 have 
been residents of Elkhart county, Ind. They bought 160 acres of woodland, besides 
which they now own a farm of ninety acres in Baugo township, on which one of his 
sons is living. He has always been active in political matters, at all times supports 
the principles of the Republican party, and has always been exceedingly public 
spirited. He is interested in all enterprises tending to improve the county, and 
especially the immediate section in which be resides. He experienced the hardships 
of life on a pioneer woodland farm and devoted many a hard day's labor to clearing 
it and getting it in good farming condition. He had some means, in which respect 
he was more fortunate than many of the early pioneers of the section, but he has 
always been prudent in his expenditures and never run in debt. In 1860 he built 
the large brick house in which he is now living, which was, in all probability, one 
of the first erected in the county. His farm is finely improved in every way, bis 
fences are kept up, his buildings in good repair, and every nook and cranny of fields 
and fences are in admirable condition. His children are as follows: Abraham, born 
September 8, 1854, is a farmer of Baugo township, was married to Ellen Cline, and 
is the father of two children — Leroy and James; Michael was born October 29, 
1860, is assisting his father on the home place, and is a Republican in politics; John 
was born August 12, 1863, and died November 26, 1863; Amasa P. was born Sep- 
tember 4, 1864, and is also at home; Mary M. was born November 4, 1868, and died 
February 2, 1869; Christina was born October 7, 1870, is the wife of Daliem Kurtz, 
of Harrison township; Joseph, born July 25, 1874, is attending school; and Ida, 
born December 7, 1876, is also attending school. Mr. Hay and his family rank 
among the prominent people of the county, and this reputation has been acquired 
not through their means, but through their public spirit, fair dealing and earnest 
Christian purpose. 

James Aslin. A plumber of South Bend, Ind., who has made an excellent repu- 
tation for good work, and who is doing a thriving business, is James Aslin whose 
place of business is at 216 Michigan street. He was born in Hartfordshire, England, 
January 25, 1860. son of George and Susanna (Barber) Aslin, in which country they 
belonged to the farming classes. The father was born in St. Albin's Abbey, there 
received a good education, and like his worthy ancestors before him, Ijecame a tiller 
of the soil when settling in life. In 1875 he sailed for the United States and first 



686 • PICrOIUAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

located iu Hartford, Conn., in the vicinity of whicli place be followed agricultural 
pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1889. His widow died in England in 
1892, having become the mother of eight children, six of whom survive her: Louise, 
Frederick, Elizabeth and Susanna who reside in London, England; Matilda, a resi- 
dent of Hamelhempstead, England, and James, the subject of this sketch. He was 
reared in the land of his birth, where he was partly e lucated, but iu IBT-t left that 
country to seek his fortune in America and soon after reaching this country he went 
to CJlevelaud, Ohio, where he learned his trade; thence to Chicago, where he worked 
at the same for two years. In 18S9 he came to South Bend and until two years ago 
worked as a journeyman when he established himself in business and has built up a 
large and constantly growing patronage. He is a thoroughgoing and energetic 
business man, reliable at all times, and is highly respected among a large circle of 
business and social acquaintances. He is himself a practical mechanic and gives 
careful and personal supervision to all work done. This includes everything in the 
line of gasfittiug. In the matter of charges, he makes it a rule to be moderate and 
reasonable, and this has undoubtedly had an influence in building up the excellent 
trade enjoyed. Another feature that has given great satisfaction among his patrons 
is the promptness with which all orders are attended to. He was married in 1885 
to Miss Sophia Pommart, daughter of Andy Pommart, the tirst drayman of South 
Bend, and to them three sons have been born: George, Harry and Fred. Mrs. 
Aslin is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the Royal Arcanum. 

L. B. Rood is a member of a prominent family of Elkhart county, to which sec- 
tion became from Ohio in 1865, although bis birth occurred in Bedford, Mass. Hie 
parents, Aaron and Phily (Caiter) Rood, the former being a member of a family 
that took root on American soil at a very early day. Aaron with his family removed 
to Ohio, and there he and his wife eventually passed from life, both being quite aged. 
They reared four children: Aaron, Alpha, Lauren B. , William and Elizabeth. 
Lauren B. Rood, the subject of this sketch, was married in Ohio to Susanna Golder, 
daughter of John and Mary Golder, Pennsylvania people who early removed to 
Ohio, where they reared four children: Garrett, Jackson, Devereau and Susanna. 
After his marriage Mr. Rood farmed in Ohio until 1865, and since that time has 
followed the same occupation north of Goshen, where he also manufactured the first 
tile ever made in the county and himself manufactured the first machine for the pur- 
pose. To himself and wife four children were born : John, who i.s a farmer of 
Jefferson township; Nelson, who is a farmer and a brick and tile manufacturer four 
miles weht of Goshen; Elizabeth, and Wilson H., who is a farmer and is associated 
with his l)rother in the manufacture of brick and tile, also township trustee. Mr. 
and Mrs. Rood have reared a family of honest, industrious children, who are good 
citizens and well to do in worldly goods. Nelson Rood was born in Mercer county, 
Ohio, in 1818, April 18, and was a son of L. B. and Susanna (Golder) Rood, being 
the second of their four children: John, who is a farmer residing east of Goshen; 
Nelson L. ; Chester, who died at the age of eight years; Elizabeth, who is the wife 
of Eli McQuate, and Wilson H., married to Cora Bemenderfer December 1, 1887, 
one child Winnie B., born August 5, 1888, who is a resident and trustee of Harrison 
township. Nelson W. Rood was a resident of Mercer county, Ohio, until he was 
about nineteen years old, and in the district school of that county be obtained a good 
practical education, and after coming to Elkhart county he attended a select school 
of Goshen for some time. At the age of twenty-one years he began teaching and 
for three years was a successful pedagogue in the district schools of Elkhart county, 
since which time be has given his attention to farming and the manufacture of 
brick and tile, embarking in the latter enterprise at about the age of twenty-two 
years, using a small band machine, and remained thus associated with his father for 
four years. After his marriage he removed to Olive township, on the Jacob Shann 
farm, where be followed tile and brick making for four years alone, then associated 
with him bis brother Wilson. In 1882 they sold their farm to Aaron Shann and bought 




Hon. JOHN M. BUTLER. 



MEMOIRS OP INDI.Xy.i. 689 

the farm, now owueJ by Joliu Stutsman, consisting of 122 acres. They have been 
very successful in tbeir Hue of work and the output of their establishment is large 
and consequently paying. Their plant is valued at about §10,000 and is the result 
of a great deal of hard labor. The clay on this place is of a very superior qual- 
ity and is well suited to the manufacture of crocks. They employ six or seven men 
during the tile season and find a ready sale for their product. Mr. Rood is one of 
the most public spirited of men, and politically is a Republican. He has always 
been iuterested in affairs of his section and makes it a point to keep well posted on 
the current topics of the day. He is a memberof the Evangelical Church, in which 
he is treasurer and secretary and has always shown much interest in Sunday-school 
work. November 26, 187-1. he was married to Hutoka Blue, daughter of Abner 
Blue. Mrs. Rood was born two miles north of Goshen on the old homestead of the 
Blue family. She is oue of the following children: Louise, who is living in 
Nebraska is the wife of John E. Adams; James L. is a farmer of Adams county. 
Neb. ; Hutoka (Mrs. Rood), and May. Mrs. Rood was born Februar}' 21, 1853, and 
has borne her husband two children: Hallet E. , born November 25, 1877, and Carlos, 
born January 10, 1886. They have an adopted daughter, Maud (Willy) Rood, who is 
now sixteen years of age. They are among the prominent young people of Harrison 
township and well and favorably known. Mr. Rood is a young man of superior 
business qualifications and is highly regarded in business circles. 

W. R. HoBBS, furniture dealer of South Bend, Ind. Of the marked improve- 
ment on the culture and general good taste of the public no more convincing proof 
is to be found in South Bend than by a visit to the furniture warerroms of W. R. 
Hobbs at 122 South Michigan street, which is conducted in an able and efiicient 
manner and is in the enjoyment of a prosperous career. Mr. Hobbs owes his na- 
tivity to Yorkville, 111., where he was born January 25, 1859, a son of Nathaniel 
and Caroline (Graham) Hobbs, the former of whom was born in Portland, Me., and 
the latter in Haverhill, Mass. Both the paternal and maternal grandparents were 
of English descent and were early settlers of New England. The great-grandfather, 
Josiah Hobbs, was a colonel in a Maine regiment during the Revolutionary war. 
The early members of the family were engaged in mercantile pursuits. Nathaniel 
Hobbs emigrated from Maine to Illinois in 1855, and in the town of Yorkville he 
built a saw-mill and was engaged in milling and lumbering until the big flood of 
1858, when everything he owned was swept away, leaving him totally destitute of 
means. He then turned his attention to agriculture, purchasing a farm on time one 
mile from Yorkville, and by good management and hard work in time succeeded in 
entirely paying off his indebtedness. In 1868 he sold this property and moved to 
Aurora, 111., where he opened a furniture establishment which he conducted in a 
successful manner until 1887, at which time he sold his stock to his two sons, W. R. 
and Albert J., and from that time until his death in 1889, lived a retired life. His 
widow survives him and lives on the old homestead in Aurora. She bore her hus- 
band four children: Albert J.; George; Mrs. Flora E. Hammond, of Aurora, 111. ; and 
William R. , of South Bend, Ind. The subject of this sketch was but five years of age 
when his parents left the farm and in the city of Aurora, 111., he received his educa- 
tion, graduating fiom the high school in 1876, at the age of seventeen. The subse- 
quent three winters he taught school in the vicinity of Aurora and in the summer 
worked for Gannon & McGrath, of Chicago, at which place he learned the up- 
holsterer's trade. After becoming a thoroughly competent upholsterer he entered 
his father's establishment with whom he remained associated until he purchased an 
interest in the business upou his father's retirement, but in 1890 sold out to his 
brother and soon after purchased his present store and has since conducted a pros- 
perous and creditable business. The premises are suitably arranged for sale and 
work purposes and he carries the largest stock of furniture in Indiana, north of 
Indianapolis. He is not only thoroughly conversant with the details of the business 
but also with the demands of the public, whom he zealously and successfully strives 

40 



690 PICTORTAL AND BIOGUAPIUCAL 

to serve to their best mutual advantage, and under his keeu, careful supervision the 
house has attained a position in the foreground in its line. Mr. Hobbs vyas married 
in 1880 to Miss Eliza Smedley, of Aurora, 111., by whom he has four children: W. 
E. Hobbs' career has not been one of a varying nature, it has been a safe, healthy, 
energetic, progressive career, in proof of which he builds this year a double, four- 
story, ornamental brick block on the corner of Michigan and Wayne streets, to 
which, when completed, he will move his present business. 

E. R. Vanderhoof. a well-stocked and thoroughly equipped drug store is a 
great convenience in any community, and Mr. Vanderhoof is fully alive to the re- 
quirements of the public in his line of business, and the able manner in which he 
conducts it proves at once that he is fully abreast of the times and is a thoroughly 
qualitied druggist. His place of business is located at 216 West Washington street. 
He was born in Louisville, Stark county, Ohio, October 31, 1853, a son of Aaron 
and Mary F. (Moffitt) Vanderhoof, who were also born in the Buckeye State. The 
Vanderhoof family originally came from the land of windmills and they and the 
Moffitts were among the first settlers of Stark county, Ohio. The paternal grand- 
father, Patrick Vanderhoof, was a farmer and donated forty acres of land to the 
Catholic Church of Louisville, Ohio. The father of the subject of this sketch came 
to South Bend many years ago and became book-keeper for Studebaker Bros. , and 
also for the Oliver Plow Works and at one time was engaged in the grocery business. 
He died in this city and here his widow still lives with her six children: Edward R. , 
Albert, Amy, Mary, John and Stella. Edward R., whose name heads this sketch, 
was partially reared in Louisville, Ohio, but when a lad came to South Bend with 
his father and obtained a good education in St. Patrick's Parochial School, after 
which, for eleven years, he was a clerk in a drug store. At the end of this time he 
became a daii'yman and at the same time farmed until 1887, when he opened a drug 
store of his own in South Bend in partnership with G. R. Summers ,with whom he has 
since been connected. They keep an excellent stock of pure, fresh drugs and all 
the various articles belonging to the V)usiness. The store is neatly and tastefully 
appointed and supplied with every modern convenience, and is made attractive by 
handsome show windows. Their business is large and constantly increasing and 
their establishment is recognized as one of the prominent business institutions of 
the city. Dr. Vanderhoof also owns a tine farm of 1 20 acres in Clay township and 
is quite an extensive dealer in tine stock, being particularly fond of fast trotters, oi 
which he owns some creditable and exceptionally speedy animals. His cattle are also 
finely bred. He rents his land, as he has no time or inclination to look after it him- 
self. In 1880 he was married to Miss Mary A. Summers, and their union has re- 
sulted in the birth of two sons and two daughters: Catherine, Mamie, Edward and 
John. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church and are highly regarded 
in the social circles of South Bend. 

Ephraim Musser, a well known citizen of Elkhart county, is a product of Wayne 
county, Ohio, where he was born on the Ist day of February, 1836, the elder of two 
children born to Isaac and Fannie (Shirk) Musser, a short notice of whom is given 
in the sketch of Joseph Musser. Ephraim was reared in his native county, and 
in the district schools of the neighborhood he obtained a good common-school educa- 
tion. When sixteen years of age he came to Indiana with his parents, by wagon, 
and assisted in putting the home farm, which was a woodland tract, in a good state 
of cultivation and in improving it in various ways. He remained with his parents 
until 1864, having married, in 1857, Mary Martin, who was born in Canada, Novem- 
ber 4, 1836, a daughter of Joseph and Susanna (Weuger) Martin, who were Penn- 
sylvania people also, but who took up their residence in Canada in early days. The 
father died in the Dominion but the mother came west and died in Michigan when 
quite advanced in years. They were the parents of six children: Daniel, Mary, 
Anna, Simon, Zimmerman and Susanna, of whom Zimmerman and Daniel are 
deceased. Mrs. Musser is the only one of the family residing in Indiana, the other 



MEMOIRS OF INDnLyA. 691 

members being residents of Michigan and Ohio. In 1865 Mr. Musser removed from 
the old home farm to the farm where he now lives, which had been partly improved, 
and here the knowledge which he had gained in clearing up the old home farm was 
of practical use to him and greatly assisted him in his efforts to improve and make 
habitable his place. Of the 160 acres which he owns over 100 acres are cleared, and 
as it is well located it is not only a desirable place of residence but is also valuable. 
The farm is substantially fenced and has excellent farm buildings, all in good repair. 
He has a tine orchard near his residence, surrounding which, for protection during 
the winter, is a tine natural grove. He has been at great pains to improve his place 
and his efforts in this direction have been well rewarded, for he has one of the neatest, 
prettiest and best kept farms in the county. He has devoted much of his attention 
to stockraisiug, has been an exceptionally successful farmer and deserves his suc- 
cess, for he has been industrious, faithful to his interests and honorable in all his 
methods. He enjoys a wide circle of friends, is deservedly popular with all classes, 
and in politics has always been connected with the Republican party, the principles 
of which he upholds at all times. He is decidedly public spirited, is interested in 
schools and churches and has done his full share in improving his section of the 
country. He and his wife have reared three children: Susanna, who was born May 
31, 1865; Amanda, who was born December 29, 1868, is the wife of Noah Whisler, 
son of John H. Whisler, but in 1892 she was left a widow and is now at home with, 
her parents; Enos, was born on the 22d of October, 1875, is at home and assists on 
the farm. Mr. Musser is one of the influential citizens of his section. Owing to 
his earnest efforts he is now in good circumstances. During the winter mouths he 
operates a feed-mill one day in each week, it being run by steam. Mrs. Musser came 
to this section with an uncle, Jonas Weuger, who resided for a time in Harrison 
township, this county, but eventually went back to Canada. 

Joseph Musser, the youngest child of Isaac and Fannie (Shirk) Musser (see 
sketch in another part of this book), was born in Wayne county, Ohio, February 3, 
1839, and until he attained his thirteenth year that county continued to be his home. 
He then came to Elkhart county, Ind., with his parents, and well remembers the long 
and tiresome journey thither. They "pitched their tent" on the identical farm on 
which Joseph is now living, and at once set to work to improve the farm which they 
had purchased; and not only succeeded in putting it in a good agricultural condi- 
tion, but greatly added to its value by the erection of substantial buildings suitable 
tor a farm, and by the building of good fences. The knowledge of books acquired 
by Joseph Musser was such as was afforded by the country schools of Ohio and Indi- 
ana, but he was an intelligent youth, made fair use of his opportunities, and became 
a well informed young man, capable of caring for others as well as himself, which 
he proceeded to do in 1861 by marrying Leah, the daughter of B. H. Curtis (see 
sketch of C. K. Curtis). Leah Curtis was born on May 27, 1844, in Canada, and 
was a child when her parents came to Elkhart county in 1857. She was chiefly 
reared in Olive township, and after her marriage she and Mr. Musser located on the 
old Musser homestead, which has been their home up to the present Joseph Mus- 
ser is the owner of 100 acres of well-improved land, the most of which is cleared 
and under cultivation, and is well improved with neat farm buildings. Mr. Musser 
is a thrifty tiller of the soil, and is one of the substantial citizens of his township 
and, as such, is considered by all who know him. In the past he has taken an act- 
ive interest in politic)*' affairs; is a stanch Republican. He assists with his means 
and influence all worthy enterprises, churches and schools especially receiving his 
patronage. He is a prominent member of the Mennonite Church, to which his wife 
also belongs, and in that faith they have reared their two children: Julia A., liorn 
July 20, 1862, l)ecame the wife of Ishmael Weaver, by whom she had three children 
— two boys and one girl — both of whom died; she is now the wife of Daniel Horst, 
and is living on a farm in Harrison township, the mother of one child, Clarence, who 
was born on April 5, 1891; and Fannie, who was born September 13, 1865, is the 



692 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPUICAL 

wife of Isaac S. Good, of Harrison township, liy whom she hag two children, Elsie, 
born July 25, 1886, and Milo, born June 6, IS'JO. Joseph Musser's grandparents 
were John and Mary (Martin) Musser. His father was born in Lancaster county, 
Penn.jMay 29, 1812; was married iu Juniata county, and in 1835 removed to Wayne 
county, Ohio, where he tilled the soil until his removal to this county and State in 
1852. The farm uu which they settled was cleared to some extent, and a log house 
was built thereon; and although they were compelled to work very hard for some 
time they were comfortable. The mother was a daughter of Joseph and Margaret 
(Shelby) Shirk, natives of Pennsylvania, the former of Lancaster county and the lat- 
ter of Bucks county. Joseph Shirk's father was Michael Shirk, and his wife was a 
daughter of John and Margaret Shelby, the maiden name of the latter being Yelous. 
Mrs. Fannie Musser was born in Pennsylvania July 28, 1815, and at about the age 
of twenty she was married and moved to Ohio by wagon, the journey thither occupy- 
ing seven or eight days. In that State the father died in May, 1864. His widow is 
now seveuty-seveu years of age, enjoys comparatively good health, and is in posses- 
sion of all her mental faculties. 

MiLO A. Smith. The State of Vermont is always suggestive of the honest, hard 
and rugged characters in human life. It presents to the mind pictures of the bold 
Green Mountain Boys and brave Ethan Allen before the gates of Ticonderoga. It 
•was people like those who won their independence from the British king and 
erected the basis of this great American nation. It is their descendants who have 
come out in the ^Yest and formed the nucleus, of a great territory and a great 
.people. Milo A. Smith, of South Bend, Ind., came of this stock. He was born 
in Rutland county. Vt. , in 1838. His father was also a native of the same county 
but his mother, whose maiden name was Sarah T. Hall, was born in Richmond, Va. 
Both, however, were of the good old English Puritan stock who had the courage in 
the cause of Christian liberty to break the heart strings which bound them to home 
and kindred and come to a "rock-bound coast" in search of a spot where they could 
exercise the true rights of man and womanhood. The father of Milo A. Smith took 
up the practice of law in his native State, a profession he followed for many years. 
His legal connections brought him to a certain extent into the political arena and he 
was elected for several successive terms to the State Legislature. When Milo was 
fourteen years old, his family came west locating first in Plymouth, Marshall county, 
Ind. This was 1852 and transportation facilities were not then what they are to-day. 
It is true, part of the trip was made by rail but the greater portion of the route was by 
water. Mr. Smith's stay iu Plymouth, however, was of but a few years' duration, but 
while there he resumed the practice of law and became a justice of the peace. In 
1858 he removed to Mishawaka iu the same State, and here, too, he meted out justice 
to offenders from the judge's bench. Death, however, cut short his career in Misha- 
waka. He died there in 1862. His wife survived him twenty-one years, dying in 
1883. Milo Smith was one of a family of six children. Like any lad of fourtpen, 
Milo enjoyed the novelty of his trip from the land of Green Mountains to the 
land of Hoosierdom. His education was received mainly in his old Vermont home. 
He did not come West to obtain an education but to grow up with the countiy and add 
his muscle and brain to the hosts striving to win fortune in new and untried iields. 
At the early age of eighteen, in 1856, he began his business career. Some induce- 
ments were" offered him aud he went south to Memphis, Tenn., where he engaged in 
the grocery and commission business. In that enterprise he showed his business 
ability, for he made a success of it and kept it in a healthy and prosperous condition 
until 1801. It was then the troublous times between the North and the South finally 
culminated in the Rebellion. There were many Northerners south of Mason and 
Dixon's line, and many were engaged in successful business enterprises. The war 
alarm reached their ears, but they could not believe the country was to be thrown 
into a fearful fratricidal war. But the boom of the cannon which fired upon Fort 
Sumter came, and its dreadful note could not be mistaken; it spoke in words too 



MEiWIRS OF INDIANA. 693 

plain to be doubted that the crisis had come. Just at this time sickness and death 
caused Mr. Smith to return to Misbawaka, where he reniainpd until the spring of 
1862. His ambition was too great, however, to permit of his staying in that small 
Indiana village. He became restless to once more engage in the selling of merchan- 
dise where the field was larger and where he had greater scope for success. He 
moved to Chicago and was soon established in the commission business, a field he 
had found very profitable while in the South. For four years was he thus occupied 
until 1866, when circumstances made it desirable for him to once more go back to 
Indiana. This time, however, he pitched his tent in South Beud, a town of some 
considerable prominence and only a short distance from his old home, Misbawaka. 
Here Mr. Smith opened a book and stationery store and there he has remained ever 
since. His business instinct led him to do this at a time when success was very 
promising. His establishment has grown steadilj^ and prospered and is to-day one of 
the leading mercantile enterprises of an enterprising town. Personally Mr. Smith 
is looked upon as one of the representative business men of South Bend. He has 
dealt fairly and honestly with his trade, and traits such as those coupled with keen 
business ability, knowing first how to buy goods, that he might sell them at a profit 
and still underbid his competitors, and studying carefully the wants of his custom- 
ers, could have but one result — success and prosperity in a high degree. This Mr. 
Smith has desired and this he has obtained. Milo A. Smith has been twice married, 
His first wife was Miss Helen Van Pelt, of Memphis to whom he was united in 1864. 
Four children were the result of this union, two boys and two girls. The former are 
named Milo H. and Clarence A. and the latter Annie and Helen M. In 1887 he 
escorted to the altar Miss Alice C. Patterson of Mason county, Ky., who at the 
time resided in South Bend and was a member of the Presbyterian Church. To a 
man of Mr. Smith's tastes clubs, orders, societies and politics can have but few charms. 
Being an American, he regards his franchise as a gift not to be cast away. He 
therefore votes conscientiously, but he has never been an office seeker nor a politician 
in any sense. As for societies, he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and that 
covers the entire list. It is men like Milo A. Smith who are the strength and back- 
bone of this great country. Blood will surely tell, and men who come from the good 
old Puritan stock and are reared in an atmosphere of honesty, and good principles will 
assuredly make their mark in whatever field of life's labor fate may destine them to 
work. 

Dr. Reuben L. Lockwood. This eminent physician and worthy citizen springs 
from one of the earliest pioneer families of Elkhart county, for his father, Seylon 
Lockwood, came to this region in 1830 with his father, Samuel Lockwood, and made a 
settlement in Locke township prior to its organization. Seylon Lockwood was mar- 
ried to Frances Molebash, and by her became the father of six children, the eldest 
of whom was the subject of this sketch. The next was Elizabeth E., who became 
the wife of Samuel Stratton, of Elkhart; William F. is unmarried, and is attending 
the H. P. Medical College of Chicago; John W. is unmarried, and is a resident of 

Michigan; Lucy A., died in 1891, at the age of nineteen years; and A , who 

lives with the parents in Madison township, St. Joseph Co., Ind. Dr. Eeuben L. 
Lockwood was born in Locke township, Elkhart county, December 23, 1858, and on 
the old Lockwood homestead he was brought up, obtained a practical knowledge of 
agricultural pursuits, and learned lessons which have largely assisted in bringing 
about his present success. During the winter months he found time to attend the 
district schools in the vicinity of his rural home, but he was quick to grasp at new 
ideas, and made fair progress iu his studies. He remained at home until he attained 
the age of twenty-one years, when he began working at the carpenter's trade, and 
followed this calling for four years. At the end of this time he began learning teleg- 
raphy in an oflSce of the Chicago & West Michigan Railroad, after which he went 
to Kansas, and remained a resident of the Sunflower State for about one year. 
Returning to his old home in Indiana, he began the study of medicine in the oflice of 



694 PICTORIAL JLM) BIOGRAPHICAL 

Dr. H. A. Miman, now of Elkhart, but then of Nappanee, and after a year thus spent 
he entered the H. P. College of Cleveland, Ohio, which be attended from 1886 to 
1888, graduating in the latter year. He at once opened an office at Wakarusa, and 
since that time has built up a paying practice, for the people soon came to recognize 
the fact that he is well posted in his profession, that he was skillful, and that he was 
a faithful and conscientious practitioner. His reputation has gone abroad, and 
among his medical brethren he is often consulted, and highly valued. From the 
onerous and laborious duties of his profession, he has found time to interest himself 
in public matters, and ranks among the foremost in supporting measures which are 
designed to benefit the county. He has always been a Democrat in politics, as were 
his father and grandfather before him, and his services to his party were recognized 
in 1892 by his election to the position of county commissioner. His practice extends 
all over Elkhart and St. Joseph counties, and is especially large in the township 
where he was born and reared. He has been more than ordinarily successful in the 
treatment of rheumatism, but is an excellent and reliable all around physician, of 
which fact the public is thoroughly aware. He is unmarried. 

William Inwood, vice-president of the Sandage Steel Skein Company, of South 
Bend, was born in Center township, St. Joseph count}% Ind., October 1, 1847, a son 
of Eichard and Catherine (Kush) Inwood, the former a native of England, the latter 
of Ohio. The Rush family were pioneers of Pennsylvania and there settled on a 
Tomahawk claim. Benjamin Rush, an early member of this family, was a prominent 
man of his day and was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. The 
family removed from Pennsylvania to Ohio and settled in the vicinity of Dayton, but 
some of the name are still residents of the Keystone State. The maternal grand- 
father, Leonard Rush, had two sons, Jacob and Israel, Jr., who came from Ohio to 
St. Joseph county, Ind., about 1830 and located in what is now Olive township, on 
Terre Coupee Prairie, of which they were among the very first settlers, and where 
they entered quite a large tract of land, theirs being among the first land entries 
on record. Jacob Rush plowed the first furrow on this prairie and was the first to 
cultivate the land in that section. Israel Rush built the first log cabin there, and 
soon afterward their father followed and took up his residence with them. The 
Black Hawk Indians were still numerous throughout that region, and at one time a 
fort was erected for protection against them, iiut their alarm was needless and the 
whites were never molested. Jacob Rush took a contract from the Government to 
open the Michigan Military Road, receiving in return therefor 160 acres of land for 
each mile of road opened. He opened this celebrated road from Plymouth to South 
Bend and the old homestead was a part of the grant. Leonard Rush was subse- 
quently elected to the position of State representative. The grandfather Rush 
became the father of twelve children and accumulated a comfortable fortune, being 
at one time the owner of 3,000 acres of land in northern Indiana, the most of which 
was in St. Joseph county. He died on Terre Coupee Prairie. Eichard Inwood, 
the father of the immediate subject of this sketch, was born in Holy Born, England, 
not far from the city of London, and when twenty- one years of age, in company 
with his brother William and two sisters, set sail for America in search of their 
fortunes. He went at once to Ohio, in which State he found himself in 1832, but 
the following year moved to St. Joseph county, Ind., leaving his two sisters in 
Ohio. A few months after settling in St. Joseph county, his brother William 
started for Ohio to bring the sisters to their new home, and on the way there was 
murdered near Fort Wayne, his corpse being found some three months after. Richard 
located in Mishawaka, where he secured employment in the iron works as a clerk. 
He subsequently became a partner in the mercantile establishment of Rush, Garst 
& Co., and continued thus associated for a number of years. Later he removed 
to a farm in Center township, to which occupation he devoted his attention for a 
few years, then retired from the active duties of life and until his death, January 
9, 1878, was a resident of South Bend. His first wife died in 1858, having borne 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIA^A. 695 

him three childrea: George, of Vancouver, British Columbia; William, the subject 
of this sketch, and Mary, wife of George Matthews. His second union resulted 
in the birth of one child: Richard G., who is now a practicing lawyer in South 
Bend. William luwood's early life was spent like that of the average farmer's 
boy; that is, he attended school during the winter months and assisted his father 
on the farm in the summer time. Upon starting out in life for himself it was 
perhaps but natural that he should choose that of farming, to which he had been 
reared, and to this occupation his attention was devoted with remarkable success 
until ISSl, when he moved to South Bend and engaged in the coal, wood and 
lime business and at one time ran two of the principal yards in the city. In 1887 
he purchased an interest in the Sandage Steel Skein Works and was shortly 
afterward made its vice-president, which position he has held ever since. This 
busine.ss has been very successful under its present management and Mr. Inwood 
has personally made a success of his career. He owns a fine farm in Greene 
township, which he looks after in connection with his other business. His success 
is attributable not only to innate business tact, but by his strict attention to his 
own affairs, by his never-failing courtesy and by his desire to do right by every one, 
be they poor or rich, man, woman or child. On September 7. 1875, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Maggie Byers, a native of St. Joseph county, by whom he has four 
children: John R. , Nellie, Paul B. and Carrie M. Mr. Inwood is a member of the 
A. F. & A. M., the K. O. T. M., the A. O. U. W., the Grangers, and is a trustee of 
Grace Methodist Episcopal Church. He has always been a Republican in his 
political views. 

JoH.s ScHwix was born April 16, 1827, in Canton Berne, Switzerland, and 
although but five years of age when he came with his parents to America can well 
remember the appearance of the low house, with its steep, tiled roof, in which his 
father lived, the journey along the road to the Schaffhousen, and an immense oak 
tree, twenty-seven feet in circumference. The family took passage at Havre. France, 
in a sailing vessel, and landed in New York, the voyage occupying about thirty-six 
days. They took the route to the W^est via Albany & Erie Canal and Lake Erie 
from Buffalo to Cleveland. They first settled on land in Wayne county. Ohio, 
remained one year, and then moved to another farm in the same county, on which 
they resided for some time. After several removals Jacob Schwin bought a small 
farm in Wayne county and died on it January 13, 1854, when sixty-five years of 
age. His son, John Schwin (our subject), received but little education, and at an 
early age was obliged to assist with the farm work. His father was a poor man 
and a stranger in a strange land, with no trade or profession. Although both him- 
self and wife were strong and healthy they had a severe struggle to bring up their 
large family of eleven children, and the boys were put out to work at the early 
age of ten years with a farmer in Wayne county. Ohio. John Schwin worked 
for different farmers until grown, and received his limited scholastic training in the 
country schools of his day. The people with whom he lived were Amish and kind- 
hearted, but did not believe in much book-learning and preferred to teach him to 
work. He was married in Wayne county. Ohio, to Miss Mary A. Speicher. daugh- 
ter of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Yergiu) Speicher. Mr. Speicher was born in Penn- 
sylvania and was of German descent. He was the father of ten children by two 
wives — five by each union. The children bom to the first marriage were named 
as follows: Mary A., Frances. David, Catherine and Eliza. After the death of 
this wife Mr. Speicher married Miss Elizabeth W^eiler. who bore him five children: 
Harriet, Rebecca, Rosannah. William and Emily. Mr. Speicher is still living, 
resides in Wayne county, Ohio, and is eighty-live years of awe. He and wife 
are members of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, of which he was deacon for 
many years. In 1855. when twenty-eight years of age, Mr. Schwin came to Elk- 
hart county, Ind., and settled one and a half miles south of Goshen, where he 
resided three and a half years. In 1858 he went to Iowa, settled in Blackhawk 



696 PICTORIAL AND BI06HAPIIICAL 

county, but one year later returned to Elkhart county and bought fifty-two acres 
of land, where he now resides. This land had no improvements and Mr. Schwin 
went actively to work to clear and develop his farm. Many years of hard work 
followed, and as he had nothing to start with it may naturally be supposed that 
his road was anything but an easy one to travel. Although he met with many 
reverses and much to discourage him he never gave up and is now the owner of 
168 acres of excellent land — one of the best farms in the county. It is all cleared 
and improved and is ornamented by a fine residence, an excellent barn and sub- 
stantial outbuildings. Everything about the place indicates to the beholder that 
an experienced and progressive hand is at the helm. His marriage has been blessed 
by the birth of eight children: Leo F., Emma L., John E., May A., Clement R., 
Ida M., Payson JE. (who married Kate Boyd) and Anna B. (died January 1, 1878, 
aged nine years, eleven months and eighteen days). Leo. F. married Miss Ella 
Brown. He is connected with Arbuckle, Ryan & Co., of Toledo, Ohio, and is their 
collector. Emma L. married Joseph F. Nusbaum, a druggist of Middlebury, and 
is the mother of two children. John E. is a carpenter at Ft. Scott, Kas. ; he 
married Miss Frances Mead. May A. married Rev. F. P. Blakemore, a Methodist 
preacher of Butler, Mo., and they have three children. Clement R. married INlisa 
Grace Hosteter, has one child and is tilling the soil on the home place, and Ida M. 
married De Alton Rheubottom. editor of the Middlebury Independent, and they 
have two children. Mr. and Mrs. Schwin are active members of the Lutheran 
Church and he has been deacon for twenty-five years. A Republican in politics, 
Mr. Schwio has held the office of assessor for four years and is a man in whom the 
people repose the utmost confidence. He has settled many estates and is widely 
known. His mother was a woman of a superior order of intellect, her standards 
all high, her influence always elevating. Her highest ambition was a mother's 
— to instill the principles of truth and justice into the mind of her children and to 
make each a worthy and useful member of society. To her Mr. Schwin believes 
he owes his integrity of character and much of his success. She had a wonderful 
constitution, and although she endured many hardships in rearing her large family 
she reached the unusual age of eighty-three years five months and two days, dying 
July 17, 1877. She was a devout member of the Albright Church, and her memory 
is still revered. Payson E. Schwin, one of the sons of John Schwin, is a graduate 
of a veterinary college at Toronto, Canada, and stood highest in a class of 300 
students, receiving a gold medal for his proficiency — the first ever awarded to any 
other than a Canadian. He is now practicing his profession with success at Elkhart, 
Ind. Jacob Schwin, the father of our subject, was a soldier in Napoleon Bonaparte's 
army, was in the Russian campaign, and was at the burning of Moscow, and was 
captured by the Russians. 

J.\coB D. PippENGER is a SOU of Daniel E. and Elizabeth (Stander) Pippenger, 
and was born on the farm on which he is at present residing on May 9, 1860, being 
the eighth in a family of ten children. He received only the advantages of the 
common schools in the winter months after he had Ijecome old enough to assist on 
the farm, but possessing a naturally bright intellect, he made the most of his oppor- 
tunities and became a good scholar. When he was twenty years of age he decided 
that he was competent to make his own way in the world, and as farming was the 
occupation with which he was most familiar, he began following that iu Jackson 
township but two years later went to Union township, where he remained four years. 
At the end of this time he purchased the old home of his parents (in July, 18S5) 
and now has one of the best improved tracts of land in the county, which desirable 
state of affairs he assisted iu bringing about in his youth. The place contains eighty 
acres and as ever^' nook and cranny is carefully looked after, it yields a larger 
income than many larger farms. He is engaged in a general line of farming, and 
etockraising is a branch to which he gives considerable attention. He is one of the 
most enterprising young farmers of the county and has been decidedly successful in 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 697 

this calling. His marriage, which occurred August 19, 1880, was to Miss Sallie T. 
Stump, daughter of Solomon Stump, a sketch of whom appears in this work, and on 
whose farm she was born on November 29, 1859, lieing his second child. Like her 
husband she received her education in the common country schools, and both are 
members of the German Baptist Church. Their union has resulted in the birth of 
a daughter, Susan M., who was born in Union township on May 16, 1883, and is at 
present attending the common schools near her home. Mr. Pippenger is a pro- 
nounced Democrat, and being quite a reader, keeps himself well posted on the cur- 
rent issues of the day. He is by no means backward in the use of his means, but 
gives liberalh^ to schools, churches, etc., in fact, all things tending to improve the 
county receive his hearty support. His home is a most desirable one, being hand- 
some, convenient and commodious, and his handsome barns and well-kept out-build- 
ings present a fine appearance, and are an indication of the enterprise and practical 
intelligence of the man. 

John Luke. Nowhere within the limits of Elkhart county, Ind., can there be 
found a man who takes greater interest in its agricultural affairs than John Luke, 
or who strives more continually to promote and advance these interests. Every life 
has a history of its own, and although in appearance it may possess little to distin- 
guish it from others, yet the connection of Mr. Luke with the agricultural interests 
of this region has contributed to give him a wide and popular acquaintance with 
nearly every citizen of the county, if not personally, then by name. He was born 
in Holmes county, Ohio, on the old homestead, April 18, 1826, and is of German 
descent, both of his grandfathers having been natives of that country. After emi- 
grating to this country they settled in Jefferson county, Penn., where they became 
well-known and prominent citizens. The paternal grandfather reared the following 
children: Margaret (a Mrs. Fisher), Jacob, George and John. The last named was 
the father of our subject. He was born in Jefferson county, Penn., and his educa- 
tional advantages were confined to the common schools. After growing up, he se- 
lected agricultural pursuits as his calling in life and went to Holmes county, Ohio, 
where he was among the very first settlers. He cleared up a farm of 160 acres, 
made a good home, and to this brought his bride, Magdalena Shutt, also of German 
descent. Five children were born to this marriage: Peter, Jacob, John, Daniel 
(who was accidentally killed at the age of fifteen) and Susan. Mr. Luke resided on 
this farm the remainder of his days and lived to be eighty-five years of age. He 
was a substantial farmer and a man of irreproachable character. Besides his farm 
in Holmes county, Ohio, he owned another farm in Fulton county, that State, and 
was well and favorably known. His son, John Luke, subject of this sketch, ac- 
quired his knowledge of books in the common schools of his day and when but a 
boy began learning the blacksmith's trade. On April 5, 1850, when twenty-four 
years of age, he was married in Holmes county, Ohio, to Miss Sarah Schrock, who 
was born Maj', 13, 1831, and who was the daughter of John C. and Katie (Hoch- 
stetler) Schrock. Nine children were the fruits of this union: Susannah, born 
February 1. 1851; Josiah, born March 3, 1853; William M., born July 13, 1855; 
John, born October 29, 1856; Sevilla, born February 12, 1859; Marj-, liorn Febru- 
ary 16, 1861; Jacob, born March 16, 1863; Peter, born August 13, 1866, and El- 
mira, born August 4, 1868. For fourteen years after his marriage Mr. Luke fol- 
lowe<l blacksmithing in Holmes county, Ohio, but also owned a farm of 100 acres in 
Berlin township. Formerly an old line Whig in politics, upon the formation of the 
Repulilicau party he espoused the principles of that party and has been one of its 
warmest adherents since. For one term he held the office of justice of the peace. 
In April, 1864. Mr. Luke moved to Elkhart county, Ind., and worked at the black- 
smith's trade for some time. He purchased his present farm of 110 acres, but in 
connection with tilling the soil worked at the blacksmith's trade for ten years. He 
partially cleared up his farm, made many fine improvements, consisting of an excel- 
lent residence and a commodious barn which stands on a solid stone foundation. 



698 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

He has ever taken a deep interest, in educational matters, has been a member of the 
school board, and he is also interested in good roads, being road supervisor of his 
township and superintendent one year. Naturally quiet and retiring, Mr. Luke has 
objected to holding public offices, although often tirged to do so. He and wife are 
members of the Evaugelieal Lutheran Church and he held the office of deacon and 
elder for many years. Upright and honorable in all his dealings he has set his chil- 
dren an excellent example of Christian life, and is well known for his industrious 
and manly course through life. His son, Josiah, married Miss Agnes Coouley and 
is the father of two children. He is now farming in Middlebury township. John 
married Miss Ella Nusbaum and has one child. He is farming in Clinton township 
this county. Sevilla married Lucius Prough, a farmer of La Grange county, Tnd., 
and has four children. Mary married Albert Prough, a farmer of La Grange 
county, and has one child. Peter married Miss Alda Smith, and is engaged in the 
lumber business in Middlebury. The daughter, Elmira, received a good education 
in the graded schools of Goshen. Mr. Schrock, the father of Mrs. Luke, was born in 
Somerset county, Penn., and was of German descent. He moved to Holmes couuty, 
Ohio, but subsequently moved to Fulton county, that State, where he had a farm of 
150 acres. He was the father of live children, all of whom lived to mature years. 
His first wife, formerly Kate Hochstetler, was the mother of four children: Jacob, 
Mary, Sarah and Levi. After her death he married Miss Mary Legerson, who bore 
him one child, who grew to womanhood, viz., Delila. They had other children, all 
of whom died in childhood. 

David B. Miller, who was one of the earliest pioneers of Union township, Elk- 
hart Co., Ind., moved to the farm where he now lives when the country was 
covered with timber and the settlers were few and far between. He was born in this 
county, Jackson township, August 18, 1838, and was the second child born to the 
union of John D. and Mary (Baker) Miller, natives of Montgomery county, Ohio, 
and Massachusetts, respectively. The grandfather, David Miller, was a native of 
the Keystone State, and was an early settler in Ohio. At an early day he emigrated 
to Indiana and settled in the woods of Jackson township in 1830, or about that time, 
when the country was a wilderness, inhabited only by wild animals and wilder sav- 
ages. He came to the coimty overland, and settled on eighty acres, built a log 
house, and immediatelv began clearing and improving. He reared three sons and 
four daughters, of whom our subject's father is the only one now living, but all 
reached mature years, married, and became the heads of families. They were named 
as follows: David, Samuel, John, Elizabeth, Catherine, Lydia and Susan. The 
mother of these children died in Ohio, and the father afterward married again, and 
two children, Michael and Steven, were born to this union. Both are living in Mil- 
ford. The father died in Jackson township, where he had spent many years of his life. 
John D. Miller was born in 1812, and amid the rude pioneer scenes of Montgomery 
county, the father of our subject grew to manhood. He married Miss Mary Baker, 
a daughter of Caleb Baker, and later moved with his father to Elkhart county, Ind., 
and assisted the latter to clear up the farm. Later he moved to the farm where he 
now lives, and has resided there ever since. He is eighty years of age, and is the 
oldest pioneer in the county; a man who pa.ssed through all the trying experiences of 
an early settler, but whose record has ever been upright and honorable. He is a 
member of the German Baptist Church, and in politics he has ever been with the 
Whig and Republican parties. He is well posted on all subjects of importance, and 
his mind is as vigorous as ever. A man much attached to his home, he accumulated 
a handsome property, and now, during the sunset of his life, enjoys the accumula- 
tions of many years of haid labor. He reared ten children to whom he gave SI. 500 
apiece, and his generosity in other directions has become well known. For over 
sixty years this venerable gentleman has been a resident of Jackson township, and 
during that time he has contributed his share toward its development. His wife 
died about 1830. Their children were named as follows: Catherine (deceased). 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 699 

Samuel (deceased), John N. (deceased), Hester, David B. , Mary A., Aaron, Matilda, 
George W. and Martha J. Hester, manied Jonas Shively, and resides in Goshen; 
Mary, married Michael Treesh, and resides in Goshen; Matilda, married JohnDubbs 
and is a resident of Kosciusko county; Martha J., married David Blongh and re- 
sides east of Milford, in Kosciusko county; Aaron, married Miss Sarah Myers and 
is a resident of Jackson township, and George married Lydia Miller, and now lives 
west of Goshen. All are well-to do and prominent citizens. David B. Miller, our 
subject, was reared on his father's farm in Jackson township, and attended the dis- 
trict school in his neighborhood, securing a good, practical education. When eight- 
een 3'ears of age young Miller started out to fight life's battles for himself, and hired 
out by the month to a farmer. When twenty-one years of age he married Miss 
Susan Smith, a native of Canada, bom July 17, 1837, and who was but three years 
of age when she came to this country with her parents, John and Catherine (Snyder) 
Smith. Mr. Smith settled in Union township, this county, on 160 acres of land 
entered from the Government, and resided on this until his death, in August 1890. 
He was a Democrat in politics, a public-spirited citizen, and a man of property. 
His wife was bom in Canada, and was a daughter of Samuel Snyder. She is still 
living, is seventy-seven years of age. and makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. 
Miller. She had eight children, as follows: Susan, Mrs. Miller; Sarah, now Mrs. 
John Whitehead, resides in Jackson township; Christian, wife of Valentine White- 
head, also of Jackson township: Caroline, a widow, resides in Jackson township; 
Simeon resides in Union township; Jacob, resides at Waterford; John, who died 
four or five years ago, and Samuel resides in this county. Mrs. Miller was reared 
on her father's farm, received a fair education, and is a lady of more than ordinary 
ability. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Miller resided with his father for about a year 
and then moved to Union township, settling on the farm where they now reside. Mr. 
Miller bought forty acres, and forty acres were given his wife by her father. He used 
an ox team for eight years, and as he had bought his forty acres on time, he was 
obliged to work very hard to make anything. Ever public-spirited and enterprising, 
he allows no worthy movement to fail if he can prevent it. and in church work he 
takes a leading part. He and Mrs. Miller are members of the Geimau Baptist 
Church, and he is active in educational matters. In his political views he affiliates 
with the Democratic party. To Mr. and Mrs. Miller have been bom eight children: 
Aaron, born September 28, 1859, married Miss Amanda Mason, are residing in Har- 
rison township and he is engaged in farming; John, born March 1, 1861, married 
Miss Kate Werner, they have two children. Lulu and Leroy, and he is in the dry- 
goods and grocery business; Samson, born March 26, 186-t, married Miss Mary 
Werner and they have one child, Floyd; Mary A., born February 1, 1867, became 
the wife of William Sinning, and is the mother of three children, Lloyd, Clyde and 
Calvin; Milton, born August 24, 1868, married Miss Alice Yoder, and resides in 
Goshen; Matilda, born March 19. 1870, married Ulysses Grant, of New Paris, and 
has one child, Vinson; Lydia, Ijorn March 5, 1872, is well educated and a teacher 
of note: Amanda, born September 19, 1874, is at home. The Millers are classed 
among the representative people of the county, and have ever been progi'essive and 
enterprising. 

Jesse Hire. Mr. Hire is one of the oldest pioneer citizens of Elkhart county, 
Ind., and comes of German stock, inheriting all the thrift, enterprise and persever- 
ance of his Teutonic ancestors. His grandfather came from Germany at an early 
date and settled in Eockingham county, Va. . where he married and reared his 
family. His son, Rudolph, the father of our subject, and another son, Michael, are 
the only children remembered. Rudolph first saw the light of day in Eockingham 
county and was there married to Miss Annie Iman, daughter of Jacob Iman, who 
moved from Rockingham county, Va., settling at Upper Sandusky. Ohio, at an early 
date. After his marriage Rudolph Hire moved to Ross county, Ohio, and was 
among the very first settlers. Indians were numerous and not any too friendly. He 



700 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

cleared up a good farm, assisted by his sod, and after years of hard labor became the 
owner of a very desirable home. All his children were born in Ross countv and 
named as follows: Jemimah, Betsy, Nancy, Absolom, Jesse, John, Rudolph, Mary, 
William and Jacob. All grew to mature years, married and became the heads of 
families. In the fall of 1832 Mr. Hire moved with his family to Elkhart county, 
Ind., and with three four-horse teams made the journey in one week. He settled 
on the State road in Benton township, on the farm now occupied by John Hire, and 
entered 100 acres of land. Assisted by his sons, he began improving and develop- 
ing this farm, and on this he and his wife passed the closing scenes of their lives. 
Both were members of the Dunkard Church, and when going westDunkard families 
would stop at the Hire house, where they were received with great hospitality, as was 
the custom in those days, and were never charged a cent. In politics Mr. Hire was 
a Democrat. Although a Dunkard in his religious belief, he was a soldier in the 
War of 1812, but being taken sick, hired a substitute. He was one of the old-time 
pioneers, and spent the best part of his days in developing and clearing the farm for 
future generations. He had but little education, but could read and write, and being 
a man of observation and thought, he was better posted, perhaps, than many who 
had better advantages. When young, and when a resident of Ohio, he killed many 
deer and experienced all the pleasures as well as the privations of pioneer life. He 
lived to the good old age of eighty -four years and died honored and respected by 
all. He was a very hard worker, following his duties on the farm until the last, 
and by his industry and good management accumulated a comfortable fortune. His 
son, Jesse Hire, was born January 21, 1811, in Ross county, Ohio, and was reared 
amid the rude surroundings of pioneer life. At an early age he became familiar with 
the hardships of the early settlers, and as was almost invarialily the case with lads 
on the frontier, he was strong and stalwart, well fitted to bear his part in subduing 
the rude forces of nature. His educational advantages, as a matter of course, were 
limited, but he learned to read and write, and when twenty-one years of age came 
with his parents to Elkhart county, Ind., where he assisted his father to clear up a 
farm and make a home. He became an expert hunter and killed a great many deer, 
turkeys and coons, thus assisting to provide meat for the family. He says that the 
old pioneer families enjoyed life better than the people of to-day and he remembers 
the good old days with pleasure. In March, 1831, when nineteen years of age, he 
was married in Ross county, Ohio, to Miss Rebecca Christie, who was born in 1813 
and who was the daughter of Llewellyn Christie, a farmer of Ross county, Ohio. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Hire was born one child who lived to mature years, Abraham. After 
the death of this wife Mr. Hire was married on September 18, 1838, to Miss Mary 
Koonce, daughter of Michael Koonce, a farmer of Elkhart, Ind. To this union 
were born eight children, as follows: Nettie, Martha, Catherine, Sophronia, 
Jacob, Michael, Daniel and Jesse. Daniel died when twenty-eight years of age. 
Following the death of his second wife, Mr. Hire was married on May 17, 1868, to 
Mrs. Susan Fahl, formerly Miss Orchard, daughter of Aaron and Mary (Harper) 
Orchard. Mr. Orchard was one of the old pioneer settlers of Benton township, 
this county, but came originally from Ross county, Ohio. After residing in Elkhart 
county for many years he moved to Iowa and was one of the early settlers of Green 
county, and a prominent farmer. He was an upright, straightforward man and was 
highly esteemed. His children, eight in number, were named as follows: Eliza- 
beth, Gideon, Susan, Naomia, Philip, Norman, Louisa and Mary J. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Hire have been born four children, only two now living, Emma and Gideon. Emma 
married Eli Price, a farmer of this township, and has one child. Gideon is at home. 
In politics Mr. Hire is a Democrat. He is a member of the Dunkard Church and 
his wife is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. Hire's long life has been one of 
energy and industry, and he has resided on his present farm since 1834. He first 
entered forty acres, which he cleared of the heavy Ijrush and timber with which it was 
covered, and gradually added to this until he owned a tine tract. For fifty-eight 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 701 

years he bas resided on this farm, and Elkhart county has reason to be proud of 
this early pioneer who has done so much to win her a favorable reputation as an 
agricultural center, and whose career has ever been above reproach. He is probably 
the only man in the coiinty who is living on the farm he entered from the Govern- 
ment. Bj' thrift and industry he accumulated 410 acres but has given his children 
all but about 2-1:0 acres, which he still retains. Although eighty-two years of age, 
Mr. Hire is still active and industrious and still continues to work, and is probably 
the only man of his age in the county who can and does do a good day's work at farm 
labor. His son Abraham married Miss Margaret McNutt and they have hve chil- 
dren; he was a farmer, but was also engaged in merchandising in Ligonier, Ind., 
he is now deceased; Nettie, married Alfred Juday, a carpenter, she is now deceased 
and left three children; Martha J. married Isaac Whitman, a farmer, and they have 
five children; Catherine, married Francis Ott, a farmer of Nolile county, Ind., and 
bas six children; Sophronia, married Curtis Grose, a baker of Ligonier, Ind.; Jacob, 
married Miss Rachel Culver, and has one child; he is a farmer of Noble county; 
Je.sse married Miss Louisa Lamb and has two children; he is a farmer of Benton 
township, this county; Michael, married Miss Delia Lamb, and resides on the home 
farm. Thus it may be seen that Mr. Hire has twenty-three grandchildren, ten of 
whom are married, and has nine great-grandchildren. This is the most remarkable 
record in the county. Nearly a decade more than half a century has rolled away 
since Mr. Hire entered land in the heart of the wilderness and cleared it of the 
virgin forest. He has seen the country develope, rich and productive farms take 
the place of wild and wooded land, and has contributed his full share toward its de- 
velopment. When he first settled on his farm there were no roads and it was two 
years before the assessor found him. He built his first cabin with his own hands and 
understands fully the privations and hardships of pioneer days. Although Father 
Time has laid his whitening hand on our subject's head, he still enjoys comparatively 
good health, and until recently worked in the field at any kind of farm work. He 
has an excellent memory and his mental faculties are unimpaired. 

Dr. John Boeoogh has devoted the greater part of his life to the calling of a 
physician, and as a practitioner of the " healing art " has met with more than an aver- 
age degree of success, and by his skill and talent has driven the grim destroyer from 
many a home. He was born in Wyandot county, Ohio, March 17, 1843, his 
parents being Henry and Sarah (Critz) Borough. His great-grandfather came from 
the border countries between Germany and France, inheritiog both French and 
German blood, and was the founder of the family in America, settling at George- 
town, D. C, where Frederick, the giandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born 
in 1709. He was given a common-school education, and learned the trade of a tailor, 
which he followed iti after life. When a lad he saw Gen. Washington, and voted 
for him for his second term as president. He was married to Regiua Kozer, who 
was born in Lancaster county, Penn., her parents having come from Germany. To 
this worthy couple these children were born: John, Catherine. Peter, Abraham, 
James, Samuel, Jacob, Henrj', Lydia, Elizabeth, and one that died at the age of fif- 
teen years. Frederick Borough settled in Martinsburg, Va. , where he lived for 
some years. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and while a tailor made a uni- 
form for Gen. Jackson, which line of work he made a specialty. In 1829 he moved 
with his familj- to Wayne county, Ohio, where he was one of the pioneers, but after 
a few years he began making his home with his children in Wyandot county, Ohio. 
He possessed a remarkably tine constitution, and worked at his trade until over 
eighty-five years of age, and regaining his second sight, he used no glasses. He 
reached the advanced and remarkable age of one hundred and four years, and died 
near Toledo, Ohio, at the home of his son James. His wife lived to be eighty-eight 
years old, seventy-two years of which time she was the wife of Mr. Borough. At the 
time of her death she had over one hundred and forty-seven descendants. Both 
Mr. and Mrs. Borough were members of the Evangelical Church, and Mr. Borough 



702 PICTORIAL AND BIOGUAPIIICAL 

throughout his life took the greatest interest in church work. His sons, James and 
John, were preachers in that church. Henry Borough, his son and the father of Dr. 
John Borough, was born at Martinsburg, Va., January 2, 1821, received a common- 
school education, and was reared to the calling of a farmer. He was but seven years 
of age when taken by his parents to Ohio, and in Wyandot county of that State he 
met, and afterward married, Sarah, daughter of William Critz, their union being 
celebrated about 1841. William Critz was of German stock, born in Pennsylvania, 
but became a pioneer of Stark, and also of Wyandot, counties, Ohio. He was in 
Stark county during the Indian troubles, and from that State enlisted in the War of 
1812, serving on the lake frontier, and was in a numlserof engagements. He moved 
to the wilderness of Wyandot county to get more land, and secured a 160-acre 
tract for himself and 120 acres for each of his eight children: Abraham, Henry, 
Samuel, Catherine, Lydia, Jonas, Sarah and George. Mr. Critz was a substantial 
farmer and lived to the age of eighty-six years, dying in Sandusky county at the 
home of his daughter Catherine. He was a member of the Evangelical Church, and 
had the respect of all who knew him for his integrity of character. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Borough took up his residence on a farm in Wyandot county, where he 
remained until 1866, in the meantime clearing up a good farm of 120 acres. He 
came to St. Joseph county, Ind., at the above-mentioned date, settling on a farm in 
Portage township three miles southwest of South Bend, becoming the owner of a 
fine farm of 184 acres. In 1891 he moved to South Bend, where he bought himself 
a good home. To Mr. aud Mrs. Borough were born a family of ten children, who 
lived to grow up: William, John, Regina, Carrie, Victor E., Mattie, George W., 
Lew, Clara (who died a married woman), and Mary C. (who also died after her mar- 
riage). In politics Mr. Borough was always a stanch Republican, and during the 
Civil war was an ardent Union man, two of his sons, William and John, being in 
the United States Signal Corps, and both with Sherman on his march to the sea. 
Mr. Borough and his wife are members of the Evangelical Church. Dr. John Bor- 
ough, son of this worthy couple, was born March 17, 1843, in Wyandot county, 
Ohio, and there made his home until he was twenty-one years of age, receiving the 
advantages of the common schools, a select school at Findlay, Ohio, and the North- 
ern Indiana College at South Bend, Ind. During his vacations, and for about seven 
years, he followed the occupation of teaching, and also clerked in a drug store in 
South Bend for about a year and a half, after which he began the study of medicine 
under a preceptor. Dr. Partridge, of South Bend. In 1874 he graduated from the 
Homoeopathic Hospital College of Cleveland, Ohio, and soon after began practicing 
his profession with his former preceptor at South Bend, with whom he remained as- 
sociated a few months. He then established himself at Mishawaka, where he has 
since been an exceptionally successful practioner of the "healing art." Dr. Bor- 
ough is a patron of the leading medical periodicals, has a well stocked medical li- 
brary, and is one of the leading physicians of the county, deservedly high in the 
estimation of the public. In 1876 he was married to Edith H. Close, who left him 
a widower in 1886. For the past six years he has taken an active interest in Masonry 
and has taken all the degrees except the thirty-third. Ho is a member of Misha- 
waka Lodge, No. 130, is A. M. of Mishawaka Chapter, No. 83, is senior warden of 
the Blue Lodge, master of Blishawaka Council, No. 19, and past eminent com- 
mander of the South Bend Commandery, No. 13. K. T. He is also an Odd Fellow, 
and a member of Mentor Lodge, No. 203. Politically he has always been an active 
Republican. The Doctor has made his way in life by his own exertions, and is re- 
spected alike for his integrity of character aud professional ability. On March 17, 
1864, he enlisted at Columbus, Ohio, in the signal corps, and served until the close 
of the war. He was first in the camp of instruction at Washington, D.C., and from 
there went to Rome, Ga., joining Sherman's army, being a participant in the siege 
of Kenesaw Mountain and Atlanta, Ga., and marched with Sherman to the sea. He 
wound up his military career with the Grand Review at Washington, D. C, after 
which he returned home and to the peaceful pursuits of civil life. 



MEMOniS OF rXDIAXA. 703 

Charles H. Kendrick is a public-spirited citizen, in harmonj' with advanced 
ideas, intelligent progress and the best methods of promoting education, improve- 
ments and good of his country generally. He was born in Nashua, N. H. , 
March 24, 1823, of English ancestry, who came to this country and took up their 
abode in New England. His father was a native of Amherst, N. H , and in early 
life entered a store in Boston, where he remained several years, from which place 
he removed to the yiliage of Nashua, N. H. , which was then a thriving cotton manu- 
facturing place on the Massachusetts border, where he became established in the 
business of a country merchant. Having received a common-school education, 
supplemented by an academic course, Charles H. Kendrick entered his father's store, 
where he remained until March, 18-13, when he went to the city of New York and 
engaged for a time in mercantile pursuits; then returned to his native place and his 
father's store. In 1847, having received the offer of a position by Judge Charles F. 
Gove, then superintendent of the Nashua & Lowell Railroad, he accepted the same, 
acting in the capacity of clerk in the freight and passenger departments, assistant 
conductor, etc. In March, 1852, Gen. George Stark, treasurer of the road, waa 
offered and accepted the position of superintendent of the Hudson Kiver Railroad, 
which had just been completed between New York City and Albany, and Mr. Ken- 
drick accompanied him to his new Held of laijor. He was placed in charge of the 
passenger department of the road, 150 miles in length, under the presidency of the 
late Gov. E. D. Morgan. This road, like many others in the earlj' days of railroad- 
ing, had its marj}' vicissitudes and changes, and for many years was unremunerative 
to its stockholders. Located on the east bank of the Hudson River, it was subject 
to competition by large passenger steamers and other river craft, aided by the power- 
ful influence of the New York Central Railroad, then its only western and northern 
connection. Following the presidency and able management of the Hon. Sam Sloan, 
now and for many years past, the president and manager of the Delaware, Lacka- 
wanna & Western Railroad, with its extensive coal and railroad traffic, came the 
presidency of Commodore Vanderbilt, succeeded by his son, William H., and Chaun- 
cey M. Depew, under whose skillful management and the changed condition of 
things incident upon the termination of the war and new and extensive ramifications 
of the railroad systems of the country, etc., the Hudson River Railroad soon became 
prosperous and in November, 1869, a part of the " New York Central & Hudson 
River Railroad" .system. The subject of this sketch was continued at the head of the 
passenger and ticket department of the new combination and so continued until the 
" centennial year," when he became auditor of passenger accounts of the road, and 
upon the absorption of the West Shore Railroad into the Central & Hudson River 
system, had charge of the passenger accounts of that road also. July 1, 1888, after 
a continuous railroad service of forty-one years Mr. Kendrick resigned his position 
and for one year resided in Dakota. In August, 1889, he became a resident of Elk- 
hart, Ind.,his present home. During the many years of railroad service, continued 
during the early period of railroad history of the United States, Mr. Kendrick has 
witnessed many changes occurring from time to time, and the rapid development 
of the growth of our railroad system has, indeed, been marvelous. At the commence- 
ment of his railroad career there were practically no railroads in New England, and 
but few in other parts of the country. It is within his recollection that the first 
railroad leading out of Boston was constructed, and well he remembers his first 
trip to Boston over the Boston & Lowell Railroad, the journey to Lowell being made 
by stage from Nashua. The train consisted of compartment cars of English style, 
with seats transversely arranged and upholstered with drab broadcloth, and with 
doors at the sides. The brakemen were located on the tops of the cars. The cars 
were provided with chains and buffers instead of the present devices of Miller plat- 
forms and couplers for connecting them. Granite sleepers were used in the con- 
struction of the track, making it not only substantial but rigid and unyielding, and 
they soon gave way to the wooden ties, or sleepers, as they were then called. Pas- 



704 PICTORIAL AND BIOGHAPHICAL 

senger conductors, in those days, were largely selected from stage drivers of routes 
throughout the country that had been displaced by the new order of things. Palace 
sleeping cars and other improvements of great importance to the safety and comfort 
of travelers, vestibule trains, etc., have supplanted old equipment. Trains are run 
with much greater speed, and it leads one to wonder if the next half century will 
possibly develop equally great improvements. Mr. Kendrick was married in 1849 
to Miss Susan M. Newell, a native of the State of New York, also of English ancestry, 
and by her he has two sons: Charles F. and Edmuud N. 

Christian Helmisger. This citizen is one of the prominent farmers and an 
inhabitant of Union township, Elkhart Co., Ind. Like many of the representative 
citizens of the county he is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Shelby county, 
January 6, 1840. and was the third child born to Jacob and Catherine (Zarn) Hel- 
minger. Jacob Helminger was born in Germany, and there remained until twenty 
years of age, when he decided that he could Ijetter his condition by a residence in 
the United States. He crossed the ocean to this country, settled in Shelby county, 
Ohio, and was there married to Miss Zarn, who died in 1842. Afterward the father 
married Miss Elizabeth Lewis, and four children were born to them : Michael, Louis, 
Sophia and Elizabeth, all living. The father followed the occupation of a farmer, 
and in connection was also engaged as a carpenter. By his first wife he was the 
father of three children: Jacob, George (died young), and our subject. In 1851, 
when the original of this notice was about eleven years of age, the father too passed 
to that bourne from whence no traveler returns, and as a consequence Christian 
Helminger remembers very little of his parents. After the death of the father the 
children were scattered, and Christian, who was then but eleven years of age, was 
thrown on his own resources. Even at that early age he showed remarkable talent 
for taking care of himself, and after working on a farm for some time began car- 
pentering. He grew to manhood in Shelby county, and in 1878 came to Indiana 
and settled at New Paris, in Elkhart county, where he worked as carpenter and con- 
tractor, putting up a number of houses and barns in that town and through the 
county. In 1884 he began as an agriculturist, after having made a success of his 
tradefor many years, and is now managing a farm of IGO acres owned by his wife 
and her sister! He selected his companion in life in the person of Miss Elizabeth 
Stump, daughter of Samuel Stump, aud their nuptials were solemnized in 1885. 
Mr. Stump and wife were natives of Canada, but at an early day came to Elkhart 
county, where they were married. Seven children were born to them, as follows: 
Mary, born in Elkhart county, June 29. 1840. became the wife of John Weldy, of 
Kosciiisko county; Sarah, born Ajnil 14, 1842. died June 13, 1882; George, born 
December 29, 1844, died March 29, 1847; Magdalene, born February 7, 1847, is 
single; Elizabeth, born February 10, 1849, is the wife of Mr. Helminger; Samuel, 
bor'n June 9, 1851, died November 9, 1873, and Anna, born December 5, 1855, is 
still living. Mrs. Helminger" s mother was formerly a Stump, a daughter of Solomon 
Stump, and the granddaughter of Abraham Stump. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. 
Stump settled in Union township and took up good land, on which they passed the 
remainder of their days, both dying in the year 1880, the father on February 5, 
when sixty-three years of age, and the mother just nine days later, when seventy 
years of age. They were pioneers of the county, and worked hard to get a comfort- 
able home. Honorable and upright in every walk of life they were highly respected 
by all, and were classed among the best citizens. They left 240 acres of land to 
their children, and Elizabeth, Magdalene and Anna are living on the quarter section 
left them. Mary, Mrs. Weldy. owns eighty acres and the old home. Mr. Hel- 
minger is engaged in general farming and stockraising, and has made considerable 
improvement on the place. In his political belief he is a Republican, and is con- 
siderably interested in the political affairs of the country. He takes an active inter- 
est in schools and churches, and all other worthy movements. 

Martin Long. The Long family is of German descent, the grandfather of our 




Hon. ISAAC P. GRAY. 



.UE.UOTUS OF INDIjiNA. 707 

subject, with his family, emigratiug from Wurtemberg, Germany, and settling in 
Berks county, Penu. George Long, the father of onr subject, was reared in that 
county, and later settled in Preble county, Ohio, were he followed the trade of wagon 
maker. He married Miss Catherine Gloss and the following children were liorn to 
them: Samuel, Fred, Martin, Margaret, Catherine, Sarah and Rachel. When an 
old man Mr. Long came to Indiana with his son Martin and died in the Hoosier 
State when seventy years of age. He was an honest, industrious man and a worthy 
and exemplary member of the Lutheran Church. He was a good singer and often 
led the singing in church. Martin Long, the original of this notice, was born in 
Preble County, Ohio, December 6, 1818, on the banks of a creek near an old mill in 
which his father ground corn for the soldiers of the War of 1812. He had but little 
chance to get an education in the old pioneer schools, but learned to read and write. 
He was taught all the duties of farm life at an early age and when but a child worked 
for farmers at a shilling a day. In February, 1834, young Long arrived in Benton 
township, Elkhart Co., Ind., where his elder brother, John, had resided for two years. 
The latter had entered eighty acres of land and on this our subject now resides. 
John walked from Preble county, Ohio, to this county, a distance of 150 miles, in 
six days, over very bad roads, and kept up with a man driving a pair of horses. 
The severe labor of this trip and the hardships incident to pioneer life had their 
effect on this enterprising young man. After he had entered eighty acres of land 
he walked to Fort Wayne one day and back the next, was taken ill and died at the 
house of Michael Price, one of the original pioneers of this township. His land 
then fell to his father and the two youngest sous, Martin and Fred, who came out 
together in 1834, bringing their father, then an aged man, and settling on this farm. 
They came with a yoke of oxen and an old horse in the lead, were weeks on the way, 
and had a very tedious journej'. They lived in a small log house, that the neigh- 
bors had built in the snow that spring, and subsisted on corn meal and game. Be- 
tween them they had S2, and this they spent for a shovel and a bushel of corn, 
which they obtained from Samuel Stutzman and which kept them from starving. 
The boys worked bravely to clear their place, and as game was very abundant, 
deer, turkeys, squirrels, etc., their principal food was corn meal and squirrel. This 
they lived on for many months. B\' the next year these wide-awake young men had 
partly cleared up four acres and put in a crop of corn. As they had left standing 
all the trees over eighteen inches in diameter, they had but a small crop, principally 
fodder. The first winter the cattle were wintered on wild nettles, on which they 
seemed to thrive when it was green, but when this was dry in the winter they got 
poor. In this way these Ixiys got a start. Fred was two years younger than 
our subject and but fourteen years of age. He remained with his brother until 
grown and finally settled on forty acres of his own land. Later he settled near 
Oswego, on eighty acres of land, and there he died when sixty years of age, leav- 
ing a wife and two children, John and Ada. After residing for five years on the farm 
that he and his brother had made such great efforts to clear, and after clearing about 
six acres, our subject was married September 20, 1841, to Miss Lydia Zearfass, who 
was born July 27, 1823, and who was the daughter of John and Catherine (Conrad) 
Zearfass, natives of Northumberland county, Penn. Lydia came to this county with 
the family of John Trego, who settled northeast of Goshen. Mr. and Mrs. Long 
settled in an old logcaljinin the woods, but as the years passed along and their hard 
labor and industry began to bear fruit, they erected a bam and a good frame house 
in 1858. They added to the original tract of land until now this worthy couple own 
456 acres. Mr. Long worked very hard, saved all his money, and made nearly all 
the implements that he used. He learned grafting, and as it was profitable in early 
days, he followed it for forty years. He has also made shoes and worked at any- 
thing that would bring him in an honest dollar. His wife was a helpmate indeed, 
frugal and industrious, and often worked far into the night to assist in making a 
home. Eight children were born to this most estimable couple and all lived to 



708 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

mature years: John, born January 26, 1842, and died iu the army; Catherine, bom 
April 3, 184:4; Amos, born March 20, 1846; Frederick, born March 17, 1S50, and 
died when a young man; Sarah A., born November 23, 1851; Nathaniel, born April 
15, 1858; James A.., born December 5, 1862; and Mary L., born December 5, 1864. 
Both Mr. and Mrs. Long are members of the Lutheran Church and he is a Repub- 
lican in politics. During the war he was a strong Union man and during the 
enlistment of the soldiers he played his life in all the neighboring towns. His son, 
John was in several skirmishes and was taken ill and died. His body was brought 
home and interred in the Solomon' s Creek Cemetery. Mr. Long is now a man seventy- 
four years of age and is a respected pioneer citizen. His life has been a struggle 
from his youth up, but he has surmounted all difficulties and can pass the remainder 
of his days in comfort. He and his brother were the youngest pioneers in the 
county and their perseverance and industry were remarkable. Mr. Long has wit- 
nessed many changes in the country in the last half century and has seen the 
wilderness transformed into the fertile and productive tracts of land. He has given 
all his children a start in life and on equalization will leave them each $8,500. 
Catherine married John Crisson, a farmer of Kosciusko county, and they have seven 
children; Amos married May Mullin (deceased), and to them were born six children 
(he is a farmer of Kosciusko county); Sarah A. married John Mullin, a farmer of 
Kosciusko county, and they have four children; Nathaniel married Mahala Hapner, 
and is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Benton township, this county; James A. 
■was married March 13, 1887, to Miss Saloma A. Juday, daughter of John S. Juday 
(see sketch; they reside on a farm in Benton township); Mary D. married Milo 
Ott, a farmer of Kosciusko county, and they have one child. Mr. Long made the 
first ax handles and ox yokes for sale in the county, and sold them at Benton. People 
would come from some distance to have him make these handles and he would often 
work at them during the evenings. James A. Long, sou of our snbject, was born 
on the old homestead and was fairly educated in the common schools. He married 
Miss Juday, a member of the old Juday family, when twenty-four years of age, 
and is now residing on the home place. He is a practical farmer, an industrious, 
thoroughgoing young man, and is respected by all. In politics he affiliates with 
the Republican party. 

David P. Weaver. Another of the early pioneers of Elkhart county, Ind., Mr. 
Weaver has won the respect and esteem of all for his many excellent traits of char- 
acter and for his upright, honorable career. His parents, Peter and Susan (Rahrer) 
Weaver, were natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland respectively, the former born in 
Lancaster county, April 27, 1807, and the latter on March 27, 1815. Our subject's 
paternal grandparents, Peter and Magdalene (Swoveland) Weaver, were of German 
origin, and his maternal grandfather, Jacob Rahrer, was one of the early settlers 
of the Buckeye State. Peter Weaver, Jr., was but seven years of age when the 
family moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and in that State he made his home until 
18 — , when he emigrated to Elkhart county, Ind. He was married in Ohio to Miss 
Bahrer, who was but a small child when her parents moved from Maryland to 
Holmes county, Ohio, where her father passed the remainder of his days. She was 
one of seven children. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver settled on a farm in Union township, 
Elkhart county, and there Mr. Weaver died in 1887, when eighty years of age. 
Mrs. Weaver is still living in Union township and is eighty years of age. Eight of 
the twelve children born to this worthy couple are still living: Martin, a farmer in 
Union township; Jacob, a resident of Clinton township, this county; David P., 
residing in Union township, this county; Benjamin, in Marshall county; Peter, in 
this county; Christian, Union township; Eva, Mrs. Aaron Mishler, of Clintou town- 
ship; and Elizabeth, wife of William Mishler of Union township. Those deceased 
are Magdalene, Rebecca, Samuel and Lerry. The father of these children bought 
a farm of 160 acres in Elkhart county in 1854, improved it in every way, and 
became a substantial citizen. He was an upright man and a worthy member of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 709 

the Lutheran Church. In politics he was a Democrat. He was devoted to his 
home and family and reared his children to be honest and upright men and women. 
They are all doing well. David P. Weaver was born in Holmes county, Ohio, 
October 23, 1841, and was a lad of thirteen years when the family came to Indiana. 
They made the journey across the country with wagon and were two weeks on the 
way. They settled on a farm, and David's youthful days were passed in hard 
labor on the farm, so that he secured but a limited education. When twenty-one 
years of age he left the parental roof and worked at the carpenter's trade for nine 
years. In 1863 he married Miss Sarah Swoveland, who was born in Holmes county, 
Ohio, February 27, 1838, and who was the daughter of Michael and Elizabeth 
(Wartz) Swoveland, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneer settlers of Ohio. Later 
Mr. and Mrs. Swoveland moved to Union township, Elkhart county, and there both 
passed the remainder of their days. They were the parents of twelve children, 
only four now living: Andrew, Sarah, John and Jacob. Those deceased were 
named Anthony, Lena, Eva, George, Lydia, Michael, Elizabeth and Louis. After 
his marriage Mr. Weaver worked at bis trade about two years and then engaged in 
farming on his present property. His marriage has resulted in the birth of nine 
children, as follows: Milo, born January 14, 1864; Kosa, born August 23, 1865, 
married William Conrad; Lavina, wife of Solomon Rummel, born January 14, 1867; 
Adaliue, born October 14, 1868, married Milton Rummel, and is the mother of two 
children, Sadie and Mervie; Henry, born August 10, 1870, died nineteen days later; 
Susan, bom August 10, 1871, died in the following month; Samuel, born in 1873, 
is at home; Elizabeth, born October 14, 1875; and John, born October 1, 1877. Mrs. 
Weaver is a member of the German Baptist Church. Mr. Weaver is a public- 
spirited man and takes an active interest in all good work. He has held a number 
of offices of trust in the township, among them that of school director and supervisor, 
and is well informed in politics and the affairs of the county. His fine farm of 
106 acres has been improved in every way and he is one of the foremost farmers and 
stockraisers of his township. 

Abraham Hapser. No better citizens have come to Elkhart county than those 
who emigrated from the green isle of Erin and who brought as their inheritance 
from Irish ancestors the traits of character and life which has ever distinguished 
them. The Hapner family is of Irish origin and the first branch of the family to 
find root upon American soil, was the great-great- grandfather of our subject who 
crossed the ocean from that country to this at a very early period. The grandfather 
of our subject, Abraham Hapner, was born in Virginia, but at an early date ventured 
into the wilds of Ohio, settled in Preble county, and was one of the first settlers. 
He married Miss Sallie Ott, sister of Michael Ott, who then lived in Preble county, 
and the following children were born to this union: Jacob, John, Joseph, Jesse, 
Frances. Abraham. Susannah, Frederick, Eli and Andrew. Mr. Hapner cleared up 
a good farm of 160 acres in Preble county, on Twin Creek, and there passed the 
remainder of his days, dying when some sixty years of age, shortly after a visit 
made to his son Joseph, of this county. The latter, who is the father of our sub- 
ject, was born on his father's farm in Preble county, Ohio, and received the 
limited education usual in those days. His early life was passed on the farm, and 
after reaching mature j^ears he was married to Miss Elizabeth Rookstoot, of German 
descent, who bore him an old-fashioned family of fourteen children, all but one of 
whom grew to manhood and womanhood, viz.: Levi, Delilah, Sarah, Abraham, 
Matilda. Susannah, Franklin, Nelson, George, Hamilton, Joseph, Elizabeth (died 
when three years of age), Ira and Thomas. In October, 1832, Mr. Hapner came 
with his wife and two eldest children, to Elkhart county, Ind. , and settled on 
eighty acres of land he had entered from the Government, in Benton town- 
ship. He cleared from six to eight acres of this during the winter, put in 
a crop in the spring, but later sold it and entered 120 acres in Section 18, 
Benton township, now occupied by Ira Hapner and known as the old Hapner home- 



710 PICTOltlAL AND BIOGHArillCAL 

stead. Mr. Hapner began at once to clear and burn off bis farm, made many im- 
provements, and by thrift and bard work added to bis land until be own^d in 
different parts of tbe county 613 acres. He was a very progressive and substantial 
farmer, and vpas well known as one of tbe earliest jjioneers. He and wife were 
members in good standing in tbe United Brethren Cburcb, which be assisted to 
establish in the township, and was both class-leader and steward. In politics he 
was at one time an old line Whig, but later he became a stanch Republican. He 
was one of the much-esteemed citizens of the county, and was township trustee for 
four years. A hard-working man in his youthful days, he finally broke down and 
had poor health until his death in October, lS7f), when nearly sixty-seven years of 
age. When starting in this county he had little else save a pair of stout bands and 
any amount of push and energy. After paying the teamsters who hauled him from 
Ohio, he had but $20 left with which to l)egin life. At one time he walked 
with John Long (brother of Martin Long) to Fort Wayne one day, entered land, 
and walked back the following daj', a distance of fifty miles. This walk, in connec- 
tion with his walk from Ohio, was supposed to have caused tbe death of Mr. Long, 
who died shortly afterward. Mr. Hapuer was a man universally respected, and a 
citizen highly esteemed. His son, Abraham Hapner, the subject of this sketch, 
first opened his eyes to the rude surroundings of pioneer life in Elkhart county, 
January 19, 1835, and there at an early age began assisting his father to clear and 
develop his farms. He received a common school education in the old subscription 
schools, and well remembers many of the old pioneers. On the 1st of October, 
1857, when about twenty-three years of age, he was married to Miss Sarah Ott, 
daughter of Michael and Catherine (Juday) Ott, and after marriage settled on land 
on the Ft. Wayne road in Benton township, where he remained for one season. He 
then moved to the west side of the township, settled on eighty acres belonging to 
his father and resided there until the spring of 18()1. He then moved on the farm 
of Michael Ott, buying an eighth interest, and there resided until January 21, 1868, 
when he moved to bis present farm, tlien consisting of sixty-two acres, to which he 
has since added, until he owns 148 acres of productive land. He has made many 
fine improvements, has a comfortable house and good farm buildmgs, and an excel- 
lent orchard. From his industry and good management, Mr. Hapner has met with 
substantial results, and is one of the prosperous agriculturists of bis section. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Hapner have been given five children, three of whom lived to mature 
years: Mahala, Marietta and Matilda. Mr. and Mrs. Hapner hold membership 
in the United Brethren Church, and he has been class-leader and steward in the 
same. He was lay delegate to the annual conference for five sessions, and assisted 
liberally with bis means to build tbe church in his township. A Republican in 
politics, his first presidential vote was for Col. John C. Fremont. Mr. Hapner is 
a man of quiet tastes, and although frequently solicited to hold office, bat always 
refused. He has witnessed the marvelous growth of tbe country in the last half 
century and has contributed his share towaid its development. Highly esteemed 
and respected, he is one of tbe county's most worthy citizens. His daughter Mahala 
married Nathaniel Long, a farmer on the old Long homestead; Marietta married 
William A. Juday, a farmer of this township, and has one child; Matilda mar- 
ried Jacob W. Ott, a farmer living with his father-in-law, the subject of this 
sketch, and has one child. 

MiCH.\EL D.^usMAN (deceased). In order to perpetuate for coming generations the 
record of one who was very prominently connected with tbe growth and development 
of Elkhart county, but who has now passed to his final reward, a brief account of the 
life of Michael Dausman is placed on the pages of this volume. He was one of the 
pioneer settlers of the county, a most worthy and exemplary citizen, and one always 
liberal in his contributions to aid the social, material and religious advancement of 
the same. Mr. Dausman was born in Germany, August 26, 1826, and was the 
youngest child of David and Magdalene Dausman, Ijoth of whom were natives of the 



MEMOIUS OF iyj)lANA. 711 

Fatherland. Sis childien were born to this worthy couple, all natives of the old 
country. David Daiisman, his wife and six children — four hoys and two girls — com- 
prised the family which left the old liome March 5, 1828. They started from Alsace, 
France, with team and wagon and journeyed 240 miles to Paris, France, thence to 
the coast where they took the sailing vessel, "Great Britain," for New York. 
After a stormy voyage of sixty-eight days on the Atlantic, they reached New York in 
safety. They went immediately to Buffalo, but concluded to go thence to Canada, 
where they determined finally to settle, and there they lived ten years. They then 
moved to the United States and located on a farm near New Paris, Elkhart county, 
where the parents passed the remainder of their lives. Their children are Jacob 
Dausman, who lives in Dausmantown, and is eighty-one years of age; David Daus- 
man, who lives on the old homestead near New Paris, and Henry Dausman, who 
lives in Oregon. Their three sisters are dead. Michael Dausman was but two years 
of age when his parents sailed for the United States, and as a consequence all his 
recollections were of this country. His youthful days were passed in Canada and 
New York State, and in the latter he received his education. He there also learned 
the carpenter and millwright's trade and followed that the most of his life. He 
assisted in building mills at Buffalo and worked at his trade until the family came to 
Indiana. Like many others he was taken with the gold fever in 1849 and started 
for the Pacific coast. He went with six others by way of the Isthmus and was in 
the mines of California for six years, meeting with fair success. Ho experienced 
many hardships in that country, camped out for some time and took his tools and 
provisions to the camp on the backs of mules. He returned to the East with some 
money, and made the return trij) by way of the Isthmus. For several years after- 
ward he worked at his trade, and in about 1858 was married to Miss Mary Stouder, 
a daughter of Christian Stouder and a native of Elkhart county. She was one of a 
large family. After his marriage Mr. Dausman settled on a farm in Dausmantown, 
and he worked at his trade until 1803, when they went on a farm of eighty acres, 
which had been given Mrs. Dausman by her parents. This was covered with wood, 
and they immediately erected a house and began clearing. With the help of his 
boys, Mr. Dausman cleared this place and bought another eighty joining the original 
tract, and this has also been cleared. In all there are 105 acres cleared and the rest 
is good timber. Michael Dausman made his home on this farm until his death, 
which occurred Novemlier 14, 1891. His record as a private citizen and neighbor 
were alike untarnished, and in all the affairs of life he bore himself in an upright 
manner, and was recognized as a man of true worth. He was a Republican all his 
life, and a man deeply interested in the welfare of his county. He was a great help 
to religion, education, etc., and no man in the county was more highly honored. His 
wife is still living, is residing on the old homestead in Union township, and part of 
the children remain with her. She has been in poor health for many years. Six 
children were born to this worthy couple: Juliann, born December 12, 1859, married 
Christian Weaver, a farmer of this township, and they have two children, Sylvia and 
Michael; Edward W., born September 27, 1861, is farming the home place, and is 
a Republican in his political views (he is deeply interested in the affairs of the 
county and is a well-informed young man, receiving a good practical education in 
the district schools; he is at present engaged in stockraising and general farming 
and is wide awake and enterprising); Michael M., born September 20, ]S63, in com- 
pany with his brother Edward, is engaged in the management of the home place 
(he is also a strong supporter of the principles of the Republican j^arty, the dis- 
trict schools afforded him a fair education and he has assisted on the home place 
from early boyhood; he, too, is single); L3'dia. born December 7, 1805, is the wife 
of Richard Pickering, and they have one child, Perly (they reside in Jackson 
township); Lucy, born September 20, 1807, married Henry W. Miller, and they live 
on a farm in Jackson township (they have four children — Leroy, Laura, Rolley and 
a baby yet unnamed); William, boru in 1809, died when but three months old; and 



712 PICTORIAL AXD BIOGBAPHICAL 

Alice, born May 4, 1871, is at home keeping house for her brothers. They are 
thoroughgoing, progressive young men, and their farm of 106 acres is well managed. 

Michael F. Mtees. No theme has greater interest to the biographer than that of 
pioneer times, and the life history of those who have passed through that trying 
period and have made their way to comfort and prosperity through hardships and 
privations, is appreciated by every reader. Such a history do we have in the life of 
the one whose name is given above. Mr. Myers is of German descent, and his an- 
cestors were early settlers of Maryland. His grandfather, Michael Myers, was born 
in that State, but aa early as 1803 he emigrated to Montgomery county, Ohio, and 
settled six miles southwest of Dayton, on Bear Creek. He was one of the earliest 
settlers of that region, cleared up a good farm and was active in all worthy enter- 
prises. Eight children were born to his marriage as follows: Moses, Michael, Mar- 
tin, Manuel and Manassa. The others are not remembered. Mr. Myers became 
one of the most prosperous farmers and wealthy citizens of his community. He en- 
tered land in Wayne county, Ind. , gave all his children homes, and was much es- 
teemed by all. His son, Michael, the father of oar subject, was bom on his father's 
farm in Maryland, May 5, 1798, and was five years of age when brought to Ohio. 
His youthftd days were spent in duties upon the farm and a fair education was re 
ceived in the common schools. He was married in Montgomery county, Ohio, to 
Miss Elizabeth Frantz, also of German descent, and to them were given six chil- 
dren: Eli. Lydia, Mary, Michael F. , Henry and Sarah E., all bom in Montgomery 
county, Ohio, where Mr. Myers lived until sixty one years of age. Then, in 1859, 
he moved to Elkhart county, Ind., and settled in Jackson township where he had 
160 acres of land partially cleared. Mr. Myers improved this and here passed the 
remainder of his days, dying at the unusual age of eighty-seven years. In politics 
he was first on old line Whig, but later he affiliated with the Republican party. He 
was a man highly esteemed in the community, was liberal and open-hearted aod 
assisted his children to a start in life. Michael F. Myers, the subject of this sketch, 
and son of the above, owes his nativity to the Buckeye State, born in Montgomery 
county, November 16, 1839, and received a good practical education in the common 
schools. He assisted his father on the farm and came with his father to this county 
in 1859. He was then about twenty years of age and was married in this county to 
Miss Cynthia A. Blake, daughter of Charles and Martha (Berry) Blake. Four chil- 
dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Myers: Lillie M., Matilda A., Clyde E. and 
Charles. Immediately after his marriage Mr. Myers settled on his present farm, 
then consisting of 120 acres given him by his father, and to this he has since added 
until he now owns 240 acres. He is one of the substantial and prominent farmers 
of the county, is active in all good work, and especially active in educational matters. 
All his children have had good educational advantages and his daughter Matilda 
attended school in Goshen. In his religious views he is a German Baptist, and in 
politics he is a Eepublican. He is a man who stands deserved]}' high as a practical 
farmer and honorable citizen, and is well and favorably known for his integrity and 
uprightness. 

MiLTOs Miller Latta, M. D. Among those who from early manhood have de- 
voted their lives to the cause of suffering humanity, Milton M. Latta may be re- 
garded as among the foremost, and in pursuing the noble calling of medicine he has 
made fame and fortune for himself. He owes his nativity to Champaign county, 
Ohio, where he was born July 9, 1822, being a grandson of Robert Latta, who was 
born in Pennsylvania, of which State his wife, Elizabeth Johnstone, was also a na- 
tive. The father and mother of Robert Latta were North of Ireland people, who 
took "French leave" of their parents to come to America to be manied. The for- 
mer served with General Morgan in the Revolutionary war. He reared a large 
family of children, and always made his home in the State in which he first located 
on coming to America — Pennsylvania. Robert, his son, was a strict adherent of the 
Calvinistic doctrine in religion for many years, but in middle life connected himself 



ilEUOIRS OF INDIJJfA. 713 

with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and did mnch in early times to promote the 
growth of this church in Indiana. He was one of the first settlers of the Haw Patch 
in Indiana, and was well and favorably known to all the early settlers. Of a large 
family of children born to himself and wife, James, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, was the eldest. He was born in Pennsylvania, removed to Ohio with his 
parents, and was there married to Elizabeth Seegar, whose parents were among 
the first settlers of Logan county, Ohio. About lb"23 James removed to Illinois, 
and until 1833 was an itinerant minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church in 
the central portion of that State. Upon his settlement in Indiana in 1833, in con- 
nection with his ministerial duties he was engaged in farming. He became well- 
known in church circles in both Illinois and Indiana, and became noted as a faithful 
and zealous worker in the vineyard of his Master. He and his wife died at the old 
home at the Haw Patch, where they had lived so many years, and were so well 
known and universally respected. Their family consisted of eight sons, of whom the 
subject of this sketch was the eldest. The early days of Dr. Milton M. Latta were 
characterized by hard work, his common school advantages amounting to about two 
months out of each winter term until he was about fifteen years of age, when failing 
health compelled him to leave the farm, and in January, 1837. he was taken to Ham- 
ilton, Ohio, and placed in a combined drug and book store, and here it was that his 
real education began. He continued in this establishment the greater part of two 
years, during which time he read everything that took his fancy, and commenced 
the study of medicine, which he continued in a desultory way for several years af- 
ter his return home. In IS-tO, at the age of eighteen years, he came to Goshen, 
Ind., and entered the office of his uncle, the late Dr. Johnstone Latta. one of the 
earliest and best known of the pioneer physicians of northern Indiana. In October, 
1841, he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and entered the Ohio Medical College, where he 
remained one term, then returned to Goshen, and since that time has been con- 
stantly engaged in the practice of medicine. He is now the oldest and best known 
physician in northern Indiana. It has been his ambition to not only stand well 
with his profession, but to be regarded as a useful citizen and a public-spirited man. 
He has long stood at the head of his profession in this and adjoining counties, and 
this is especially true in the branch of surgery, of which he for many years made a 
specialty, not so much from choice as from force of circtimstances. His reputation 
in this line was acquired by performing some difficult operations at a time when 
good surgeons were a rarity, and he soon had almost a monopoly in that branch of 
his profession, although of late, on account of his age, he is gradually sharing his 
honors with younger practitioners. He has no superior as a general practitioner, 
for his long experience has gained him a knowledge of symptoms and of remedies 
that can only be acquired in that manner. A close student of human nature, of 
the mental as well as the physical conditions and pectiliarities of patients, he seeks 
to understand them so thorotighly that his treatment may be exactly stiitable to 
each particular case. Add to this a fatherly care and a tender sympathy for the 
suffering greatly above the average physician, and his popularity is not to be won- 
dered at. He has always taken an active interest in medical societies and ev- 
erything calculated to improve and elevate his profession. He assisted in organiz 
ing the first society in Elkhart county in 1845, and supported it and its successors 
ever since. He was the first delegate from the State of Indiana to the National 
Medical Association at Baltimore, in 1S48, the journey thither and home again oc- 
cupying six weeks. At the opening of the Civil war he was offered a surgeon's 
commission by Governor Morton, but on account of the death of his wife, and being 
left with a family of small children to provide for, he declined it. He. however, did 
much service for the Union cause as a draft surgeon, and in various other ways, 
and was a poorer man at the close of the war than at its commencement, owing to 
the fact that he made many enemies of those who were averse to being pressed into 
the service. He was a member of the Agricultural Society from the first, and did 



714 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

all he could to promote its success. la company with five other men he secured 
the first railroad couneetion for Goshen, and was one of the first directors and build- 
ers of the Hydraulic Canal. For one year he acted as village trustee, and it was 
during that year that the Madison Street School building was erected. That he has 
been a public-spirited citizen, no one who has ever known him will question. He took 
a great interest in years past in the improvements of the country roads and the 
building of bridges, spending a great deal of time and money in promoting the lat- 
ter enterprise. He subscribed heavily to the building of several of the beautiful 
church edifices of the city, donated more money for church purposes than any other 
man in the county; in fact, all good causes have received his hearty approval and 
substantial support. While by no means an ''offensive partisan," he has always 
been a consistent Republican, being one of the first to join the party, having prior 
to that time been a Whig. He was for about forty years surgeon of the Lake Shore 
Railroad, but lately resigned the position because, while the labor was increasing, 
the compensation was not. In 1845 he was man ied to Miss Julia A. JIcDevitt, a 
native of Maryland, who died in 1861, having become the mother of eight children: 
Mary E., Julia A., James McD.. Charles C, Oliver L., William J., Henry P., and 
one that died in infancy. In 1871 the Doctor took for his second wife Miss Julia L. 
Redfield, a native of Cass county, Mich. To this union two children were given: 
Annie R. , and a daughter that died in infancy. Dr. Latta's life has been one of use- 
fulness, honor and profit, and without doubt the world is better for his having lived 
in it. 

William A. Whippy, M. D. This gentleman was born in Lockport, Niagara Co., 
N. Y., September 2, 1826, and the old Whippy residence in which he was born 
remained standing until quite recently, and was one of the old landmarks in that 
picturesque old town of canal locks. Both his paternal and maternal ancestors were 
colonial settlers of New England and sea-faring people. The father, George S., 
was born in Nantucket, Conn., in 1795, and his wife, who was a Miss Sarah C. West, 
in New Bedford, the same State, in 1799. Here thev were married, and during the 
earliest settlement of western New York moved there and assisted in founding the 
town of Lockport. They made this their home until about 1836, when theyremoved 
to Tompkins county, and from there, after about three years, to what is now Schuy- 
ler county, where they ever afterward resided. Mr. Whippy was a prominent Mason, 
and memlser of the same lodge as William Morgan, who wrote a so-called exposition 
of the order, and who so mysteriously disappeared after having done so. Excite- 
ment over the event ran high at that time, and Mr. Whippy was under arrest for 
a year, as being accessory to the disappearance and death of Morgan, but in the 
end was di-^charged and fully exonerated. He remained a consistent and honored 
Mason until his death, and lived to see almost the last vestige of prejudice against 
the ancient order give place to justly merited honor and respect To him and wife 
were born four sons and four daughters, all but two married and reared families. 
They all, except our subject and a sister (Mrs. S. E. Sloan), who was a pioneer set- 
tler of Winona, Minn., have been residents of the Empire State. Of the number of 
grandchildren, the sons of the subject of this sketch are the only males that bear the 
name of Whippy. Dr. Whippy was a stanch Democrat, and a personal friend of Van 
Buren and other stalwart New York Democrats of that time. He was a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church and his wife of the Quaker Church. He died 
November 8, 1853, and his wife a year later. Dr. W^illiam A. Whippy received an 
academic education, and at the age of eighteen began the study of medicine with Dr. 
E. A. Tompkins, a prominent physician of the alopathic school, who afterward 
removed to the Pacific coast, and became mayor of San Francisco. After about three 
years' study and attendance at a medical college he began practicing at Bath, Steu- 
ben Co., N. Y. After about three years of fairly successful practice he, through the 
intervention of an old friend, began investigating the Hahnemann system of medical 
practice, and it resulted in his becoming a convert to it, and his attending lectures 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 715 

at a college of that scbool. He then returned to his native State, but after a few 
years he moved to Winona, Minn., where he followed his profession until his 
removal to Goshen, lad., in 1808. Since coming to this place he has l)uilt up a 
large and steadily increasing practice, and has been siugularh and uniformly success- 
ful in the treatment of eases coming under his care. Dr. Whippy has been twice 
married. His first wife, to whom he was married in 1853, was Miss Mary Beards- 
ley, a native of New York. This lady died in 1862, having borne him six children, 
one only living, Lestina Estelle, now "the wife of E. E. Bates, of Hornellsville. N. Y. 
In 1868 at Winona, Minn., he was united in marriage with Miss ilary T. Harth, a 
native of Arkansas, her father, Makish Harth, being a native of Denmark, and a 
man of very superior education and intelligence. He left his native country to escape 
military service, and was teaching school in Arkansas at the outbreak of the war, 
and for his loyal sentiments and expressions he was killed by rebel bushwhackers. 
After the deatli of the head of the family her people left the South and took up their 
residence in Winona, Minn. To the Doctor's second marriage three children Lave 
been born: George A. (a graduate of Hahnemann Medical College and a rising young 
practitioner of Goshen), Lyman B. and Winnie M. Dr. Whippy has been a life-long 
Democrat, but has never aspired to political preferment. As a member of the city 
school Iward he did much to improve the schools of Goshen. He is a member of the 
Masonic order, and a charter member of Calanthe Lodge, No. 41, Knights of Pythias, 
and a member of Division No. 11, U. K., and is in all ways a most worthy, pro- 
gressive and [)ublic-spirited citizen. 

John D. E.^hber. No better citizens have come to Elkhart county, lud., than 
those from the Buckeye State, and none have contributed more to the growth and 
development of this county than the native Ohioaas. Mr. Rahrer has been a 
resident of Elkhart county for thirty years, and during that time his career has 
been not only that of an upright, honorable citizen, but of an intelligent and pro- 
gressive man. He was born in Holmes ccraatr, Ohio, April 27. 1842, and was one 
of seven children, two of whom are deceased, born to Daniel and Lydia (^Kindlebur- 
ger) Eahrer. The grandparents, Jacob and Magdaline (Rahrer) Rahrer, were na- 
tives of Pennsylvania, and early settlers of Ohio. The name Rahrer is supposed to 
be of German origin. W^hen but a lad, Daniel Rahrer came with his parents from 
Maryland, and settled in the woods of Berlin township. Holmes Co., Ohio. There 
the father died, and the mother subsequently came to Indiana, and received her 
final summons in Elkhart county. The seven children born to this couple were 
named as follows: Martin, David, Daniel. John, Jacob, Susan, and another daughter 
who became the wife of David Weaver. Susan married Peter W^eaver. Daniel 
Rahrer was born in Maryland in 1812, and after reaching Holmes county, 
Ohio, attended the district .schools of the same, and assisted his father in clearing 
the home farm. After reaching mature years he started out for himself, and was 
married to Miss Lydia Kindleburger. Immediately following this union, they 
settled on a farm in Holmes county, and there the father died in 1851, when thirty- 
nine years of age. Just prior to his death he bought 160 acres of land in De Kalb 
county, Ind., and was making arrangements to move to this when his death occurred. 
After his death his widow did not move, but remained on the farm in Ohio until her 
death two years later, or in 1853. She was a tender and loving mother, but had 
suffered with poor health and died with consumption. Her parents were early pio- 
neers of Holmes county. She was a member of the German Reform Church, and 
her husband also held membership in the same. The latter was an old line Whig 
in politics. During his short career he made a good start, but as his children were 
all young, at the time of his death they were taken and reared by friends. These 
children were named as follows: Jacob resides in Elkhart county, and is a man of a 
family; Mary resides in Holmes county, and is the wife of John Swartz; Catherine 
resides in the same county, and is the wife of Aaron Yoder; John D. resides in 
TJuion township; Elizabeth married John Marty, and resides in Holmes county, 



716 PICTORIAI. A^D BWORAPHICAL 

Ohio; Soyila resides in Coshocton county, Ohio, and is the wife of Dr. Christian 
Hwartz, and Samuel is a farmer of Clinton township, Elkhart county. The youthful 
days of John D. Kahrer were passed in his native State, and he secured a good busi- 
ness education in the district school. When twelve years of age he was left an or- 
phan, and from that time until grown he was actively engaged in farm work. In 
1863 he came to Elkhart county, Ind., and began the struggle for a livelihood. He 
began at the bottom of the ladder, and has only himself to thank for the success 
which has crowned his efforts. He is a self-made man in every sense of that term, 
and although he met with many discouragements and drawbacks, he persevered, 
and to-day may be classed among the successful and substantial men of his section. 
Prior to coming to Indiana, or in 1862, he enlisted in the arm}', and served faithfully 
for ten months, participating in the bloody battle of Murfree&boro. He was a 
good soldier, was never sick more than two or three days while in service, and 
was discharged at McMinnville, Tenn. In 1863 he returned to Holmes county, 
Ohio, and now draws a pension for services. The same year, as before mentioned, 
he came to Elkhart county, and worked at the carpenter's trade for three or four 
years. In 1866 he married Miss Mary Dausman, daughter of Jacob Dausman, who 
was one of the early pioneers of this county. Mary was born on her father's farm 
in Elkhart county, in 1842, and died after two years of married life, at the age of 
twenty-six. She had but one child, William, who was born July 27, 1867. This 
son was married to Miss Belle Bucher, who bore him one child, Elma V., and they 
now reside in Dausmantown. In 1872 Mr. Rahrer was married to Miss Elizabeth 
Strieker, whose parents, John and Catherine (Backer) Strieker, came from Canada 
to Elkhart county about 1850. These parents reared seven children, as follows; 
Jacob, Elizabeth, Lavina, Henry and three who died young. Mr. and Mrs. 
Strieker were among the early pioneers, and their daughter Elizabeth was born on 
the old farm where she now lives, the old home of her parents, which her husband 
bought, April 27, 1853. Her father died in 1862, but his wife is still living, and 
finds a comfortable home with her son-in-law, John Rahrer. She is now over 
seventy years of age. To Mr. and Mrs. Rahrer have been born seven children: 
Lavina, born March 12, 1873, married John Bare, and resides in Union township; 
Ola, born December 23, 1875, is at home; Matrona. born July 13, 1878; Helen, 
born February 27, 1880; Alvin, born August 24, 1881; Jacob, born July 6, 18S5, 
and Evaline, born November 26, 1887. Mr. Rahrer is giving his children good ed- 
ucational advantages, and is interested in school work. In politics he is a Demo- 
crat, is much interested in the affairs of the Government, and is one of the most 
prominent citizens of the township. He has been remarkably successful as an agri- 
culturist, and his boys are getting so they can assist him in the management of the 
same. He is interested in all worthy movements, and no laudable enterprise is 
allowed to fail for want of support on his part. 

Daniel Zook. Among the best known and prominent men of Elkhart county, 
Ind., is the subject of this sketch, who is a member of the firm of Coppes Bros., 
& Zook, who are among the leading business firms of northern Indiana. Mr. Zook 
was born in Elkhart county, Ind., January 22, 1851, the youngest son born to John 
M. and Rebecca (Shellenberger) Zook, the former of whom was born in Huntington 
county, Penu., March 4, 1818, a son of David and Mary (Mack) Zook, David being 
a native of Germany, and his wife a daughter of Alexander Mack, who helped to 
found the German Baptist Church in this country. The latter was a native of Ger- 
many also, but came to this country at an early day. David Zook and family made 
their home in Pennsylvania until 1840, then came as far west as Richland county, 
Ohio, and there, for a few years, followed the life of a pioneer tiller of the soil. 
Elkhart county, Ind., became their home in 1842, and here they resided on a wood- 
land farm uutil the discovery of gold in California in 1849, when he made the over- 
land trip to the gold fields, where he remained until his death, two years later. He 
was a prominent citizen, and for a number of years held the office of justice of the 



ilEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 717 

peace. Politically he was an old line Whig, and took an active part in questions of 
the daj', and was once the nominee of his party for the State Legislature. He and 
his wife reared a family as follows: John M. , the father of the immediate subject 
of this sketch; Joseph; Jacob, who died in California; Alexander; David M. ; Lydia, 
who married a Mr. Eisenbiss; Sarah, who married John Scott; Catherine, who 
married Daniel Leedy, a prominent citizen of Elkhart. The mother of these chil- 
dren, after the death of the father, emigrated with some of her children to Iowa, 
and there died in 1858. John M., the father of the subject of this sketch, and of 
Aaron S. Zook, a lawyer, of Goshen, lud., spent his early life as a teamster over 
the mountains of Pennsylvania. He was a young man when the family moved to 
Ohio, and there and in his native State he obtained a practical and useful educa- 
tion and eventually Ijecame a school teacher. He came to Elkhart county, Ind., 
and settled on a school section in the woods, which he farmed until 1862, when he 
traded his farm and located in Clinton township, where he reared his family and 
tilled the soil until his death, June 6, 1872. He succeeded in accumulating a fair 
amount of worldly goods and as a public-spirited and enterprising citizen, he had 
not his superior in his section of the country. He was first a Whig in politics, later 
a Republican, and in the neighborhood in which he lived, he held a prominent po- 
sition and a number of oificial places. He was extremely active in educational work 
and managed to give his children good educational advantages. His wife was born 
in Huntington county, Penn., a daughter of Michael Shellenberger, who were of 
Pennsylvania stock, but of Swiss descent. They were among the early residents of 
Richland county and there reared a family of children who are named as follows: 
Rebecca, born November, 1823; John; David; Baltzer; Sarah and Elizabeth. The 
father died in Ohio and the mother returned to Pennsylvania, where she was 
called from life. Mrs. Zook was the eldest of their family, and is now making her 
home in Goshen with her son Aaron. She is well preserved and is in the enjoyment 
of good health. She has long been a member of the Lutheran Church and in that 
faith reared her children: David L. was born March 1, 1846, was reared on a farm 
and followed the calling of a teacher for many years; he took a college course in 
Michigan University, also studied law and graduated from the Chicago Law School, 
and is now a member of the law firm of Wilson & Zook, at No. 79 Metropolitan 
Block, Chicago, 111. ; Aaron is the next in order of birth, and is a lawyer of Goshen, 
Daniel, the subject of this sketch; and Sarah, who is the wife of Dr. I. J. Becknell; 
of Mifford, Ind. The early life of Daniel Zook was spent on a farm where he 
learned the art of practical farming. He not only pursued the paths of learning 
in the district schools in the vicinity of his rural home, but also the public schools 
of Goshen, and after assisting his father for some time in the saw-mill, he became a 
school teacher and followed that occupation for five years, during which time he 
won an excellent reputation as an educator and disciplinarian. He took up the 
study of law at an early day with his brother in Goshen, and for some time he 
practiced law in Goshen. In 1882 he became a resident of Nappanee, and four 
years later was elected to the office of county clerk, which he filled with ability for 
four years, but refused to stand for nomination a second term, claiming that one 
term of four years was enough. At the expiration of his term of office he became 
a member of the firm of Coppes Bros. & Zook, by purchasing the interest of S. D. 
Coppes, in which he has since remained interested. He is an active citizen of Nap- 
panee and is deeply interested in the current topics of the day, and politically is a 
Republican. He was married to Miss Delia Reifenberg, of Bristol, Ind., who died 
in 1882, at the age of twenty-five years, leaving a son, Harold, who was born Sep- 
tember 4, 1878, and is now attending school. For his second wife Mr. Zook mar- 
ried Miss Lizzie Yarian, daughter of Benjamin Yarian, of Nappanee. She was 
born in Nappanee in 1867, and she and her husband move in the best social circles 
and have numerous warm friends, whom it is their pleasure to entertain at their 
hospitable home. 



718 PWrORIAL AND BIOGHAPIIICAL 

John H. Violett. A prominent farmer and wealthy and influential citizen of 
Elkhart township is John H. Violett, who was born at a point two miles south of 
Goshen, November 22, 1829, the first child of white parents born in Elkhart county. 
His father, John Wesley Violett, was a Virginian by birth, but of French descent, 
his ancestors having been among the early settlers of this country, and he was born 
near Harper's Ferry, August 29, 1795. When John Wesley Violett was seven years 
old, his father having died, his mother took her little family to Ohio, and located 
ten miles from Springfield, on Buck Creek, v^here he assisted her on the farm and 
attended school until he was eighteen years old. Though little more than a boy, he 
gave his services to his country during al)out two years of the War of 18 1 2-14, and was 
at Fort Fiuley at the time of the seige of Fort Meigs, and for his services in the 
army he was later in life granted a Government land-warrant. A Henry Clay Whig 
politically, he cast his first vote for President for "Harry of the West," and pre- 
served very carefully a copy of it during the remainder of his life. From 1820 to 
1823, he was a resident of Missouri, where he served by appointment as justice of 
the peace, and in the last mentioned year, returning to Ohio, he purchased a farm 
in Clarke county. In August, 1824, he, having manifested great interest in the Ohio 
militia organizations, was elected sergeant major of the Second Regiment, Fifth 
Brigade of the Fifth Division. Early in 1828 he disposed of his farm in Clarke 
county, Ohio, with the idea in mind of procuring a larger body of laud west of the 
Mississippi. Very favorable reports of the Indiana country watered by the St. 
Joseph of Lake Michigan, having reached him, he concluded to prospect for land 
on the St. Joseph and its tributaries, and he set out, accompanied by his father-in- 
law, October 4, 1828, for the trip, knowingthey wouldbeobliged tocamp out a partof 
the time, and having laid in a supply of provisions, ammunition and other necessaries. 
A man of close observation and excellent judgment, and of much method in all 
his habits, he kept a memorandum of events from day to day, and not long before 
his death prepared from his diary a narrative of this memorable journey from Ohio 
to Indiana. The two men proceeded to Fort Wayne the first day, and, as may be 
imagined. Fort Wayne was then an insignificant hamlet instead of the charming city 
of this time. The next morning they started for Wolf Lake, and there encamped 
the second night. A desolate place indeed. Major VioUett described this to have 
been at that time; but the next eighty miles of their journey took them over a much 
more attractive country. In the Elkhart bottoms, where they soon arrived, they 
found a rich expanse of timber land, and across the river was Elkhart Prairie, which 
impressed Major Violett as being the most beautiful and attractive land he had ever 
gazed upon. At the Elkhart River, at the spring where De Camp afterward built a 
mill, they remained over night, and on the following morning they crossed to St. 
Joseph, a little below where it receives the Elkhart, where they encountered the 
first white settler they had seen since their departure from Fort Wayne and its vi- 
cinity. Nine miles further on v?as Beardsley's Prairie, which Major Violett referred to 
in his narrative as " a beautiful rolling plain with a few squatters," and were there 
entertained by Mr. Beardsley, who showed them the first crop of growing sod corn 
they had seen on their journey, which they found to be plentiful and of good quality 
for its kind, the blades being yet green, there being no frost that year until October 
9. Here they became acquainted with Hon. George Crawford, during later years 
of La Porte, and Mr. Meacham, his partner, who took much pains to inform them 
concerning the country, , its resources and its promises for the future. Young's 
Prairie was reached the next day, and was found to be a very desirable tract of land, 
but a squatter with whom they stayed claimed a very large amount of the prairie for 
himself and his friends. After inspecting another crop of corn here they proceeded 
to White Pigeon Prairie next morning, where they were made at home by Judge 
Winckel, who also had a good crop of corn. The next day they went to Elkhart 
Prairie next morning, which Major Violett wished to further examine, having 
about concluded to settle there. They encamped for the night on the site of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 719 

Benton, at Elkhart River. The prospect for a settlement appeared very flatter- 
ing, as the land was rich and fertile, and there was a plentiful supply of water 
and much valuable timber. Messrs. Crawford and Meacham soon joined them 
on their way south in quest of stock hogs, and Matthew Bojd arrived in their 
camp about the same time and afterward became a permanent settler at Benton. 
They started for home October 14, and on the evening of that day met Elias Kiggs 
and his son-in-law, with their families moving to Elkhart Prairie, where they built 
a house on the land owned later by Col. John Jackson and were the first jiermanent 
settlers on the plain. The succeeding winter was passed by Major Violett in 
making preparations to move to Elkhart Prairie, and March 3, 1829, he set out with 
an ox team, carrying farming utensils, heavy furniture and provisions, his family re- 
maining for a time with friends. William Chance and James Bishop, two young men 
whom he had employed to help open up his farm went with him, and the party 
was accompanied by two other men with ox teams, whose names have not been 
handed down to us. The journey consumed twelve days. Making a squatter's 
claim on a timbered portion of a praiiie near the river. Major Violett erected a 
cabin and began splitting out fence rails. In the following spring he fenced fifty 
acres of his land and planted thirty-two acres of it to corn, which was the tirst crop 
of its kind raised in the vicinity and was in great demand during the following win- 
ter and spring for the use of families and stock, quite a number of people having 
moved into the country without a suificient grain supply. In July Major Violett 
brought his family out to his Indiana home. A brief resume of the characteristics 
and principal events in the life of this distinguished pioueer demonstrates that he 
was a man of unusual ability, as can not be doubted when his career from first to last 
is taken into consideration. Intellectually superior, he was naturally influential 
among his fellow men. He was a ready and conviocing speaker and, as his diary 
shows, a most pungent writer. While entertaining the highest respect for the re- 
ligious convictions and opinions of others, he was not of orthodox belief in religious 
matters, and was unable, honestly, to accept many of the creeds and practices of the 
churches. Though not an active politician, he was unswerving in his political con- 
victions and gave his influence without stint to the support of his party, its men 
and its measures. When Elkhart county was organized in 1830, he was elected its 
tirst recorder and held the ofSce for seven years. In 1830 he was appointed major 
of the Eighty-second Regiment of Indiana Militia; in 1S40 he was candidate for as- 
sociate judge, but his party being largely in the minority he was defeated, and in 
1842 he was appointed commissioner for the Erie & Michigan Canal, and subscribed 
$1,000 toward its construction. He was a candidate of the Whigs for State senator 
in 1844, but was defeated, although securing more than his regular party vote. In 
1854-5 he built the Violett House in Goshen, which stands to-day as a monument 
to his public spirit. He was a model and enterprising farmer, and, as the pioneer 
nurseryman, supplied the country with its first fruit and ornamental trees. In 
private life he was charmingly genial and cordial and his home was the center of a 
generous hospitality. His character was above reproach and endeared him to all 
who knew him; and his death, which occurred October 24, 1871, after he bad passed 
his seventy-tifth year, was lamented by a large circle of relatives and friends. 
John H. Violett, the immediate subject of this memoir, who deserves a place in 
history as the first white child born in this county, inherited many of the sterling 
qualities of his father. His boyhood days were passed in the old log cabin which 
bis father built in the spring of 1829, preceding the fall of his birth, which was 
afterward sold to Daniel Hess. The only door in that historic building, which was 
of course its outside door, was the first door hung on hinges in the county and it is 
still preserved by the family as a relic of the pioneer days. Mr. Violett's educa- 
tional advantages were extremely limited, being only such as were afforded by the 
"pay schools" of that time. His first experience in school was in the log cabin 
which was built on Section 27, near the site of Waterford, an odd building which 



720 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

was constructed minus one log on the side, with wooden strips nailed across the 
opening over which oiled paper was stretched to serve as a window. His school 
life closed when he was fifteen yeais old, and thereafter for six years, or until he ob- 
tained his majority, he labored on the farm. The country had now begun to feel the 
influence of the gold excitement in California, and one of Mr. Violett's enter- 
prising disposition was not at all likely to escape it. In the spring of 1850, 
he went with others to California by the overland route, and there engaged 
in mining with some little success, until March, 1851, when he left for home 
from San Francisco, via Panama and New Orleans. Unfavorable winds drove the 
vessel far south of the equatorial line, in the early part of the voyage, and, passing 
near the Marquesas Islands, it arrived in port after a voyage of about two months 
and a half. Soon afterward Mr. Violett bought a farm from his father, not more 
than a hundred rods from his birthplace and built upon it a large substantial brick 
building, and. purchasing a saw-mill on the Elkhart lliver, he engaged in lumber- 
ing and farming until 1853, when, selling the mill, he devoted his attention entirely 
to other interests. When war became imminent between the North and South, he 
began to make arrangements to participate therein, and September 2, 1861, enlisted 
as a private in Company E, Ninth Indiana Eegiment, and served in that capacity 
faithfully for three years, several times refusing promotion. He participated in 
the two days' fight at Pittsburg Landing April 6 and 7, 1862; the battle of Stone 
Kiver, on the last day of 1862 and the first day of 1863; the battle of Chickamauga, 
August 19 and 20, 1863; the battle of Lookout Mountain (the "fight above the 
clouds"), November 24 and 25, 1863, and in numerous other sanguinary engage- 
ments. Captured in Tennessee, he was taken to Libby Prison, but was at once 
exchanged, thus escaping long incarceration in that mundane hell. After the ex- 
piration of his term of service, he was mustered out with his regiment, at Indianap- 
olis, September 6, 1864, and returned to agricultural pursuit until, after the death 
of his wife, in the spring of 1878, he rented his farm and practically retired from 
active business for a time. His farm consisting of 170 acres of fine prairie and tim- 
ber land, was always, under his management, one of the finest in the township, and 
he prided himself on keeping it in a high state of cultivation. Before leturning 
from the war, in the fall of 1864, he was nominated and elected sheriff of Elkhart 
county by a most gratifying majority and held the office for two years. Eefernng to 
his nomination, the Goshen Times said: "John H. Violett was nominated for sheriff 
without his knowledge or consent, while he was manfully doing his duty as a private 
soldier, 'way down in Dixie', and that, too, over other worthy men, who were present 
in the convention working for the place." Until the Whig party was merged with 
the Republican party in 1855, Mr. Violett was in politics an uncompromising Whig; 
since that date he has been an equally uncompromising Republican. He is a most 
earnest man and a very liberal contributor to the support of his political convictions. 
An extensive reader, he is not only well versed in all events of the present time, but 
is thoroughly well read in historical, classical, poetical, romantic and scientific liter- 
ature. A clear thinker and a sound reasoner, he is accurate in his judgment and 
prompt to act upon it. A pleasing conversationalist, he is at the same time a writer 
of ability, his contributions to the public press being clear, forcible and comprehen- 
sive, strong in sarcasm and overflowing with pungent humor. Reared in a strong 
moral atmosphere, but not under church discipline, he is like his father, entirely 
unorthodox in religious belief, having become doubtful concerning theological dog- 
mas upon mature reflection in early youth, and having since been what is properly 
termed a " radical. " April 28, 1852, he married Miss Catherine Rodibaugh, daugh- 
ter of David Rodibaugh, of Elkhart township, a woman of marked ability, of many 
lovable qualities, who died July 16, 1877. They had four children, one of whom is 
living: Mariet J., born October 11, 1853, died June 2, 1860; Horace E., born No- 
vember 2, 1855. died April 23, 1859; Chloe. born August 11, 1857, married Charles 
A. Irwin, son of E. D. Irwin, of Elkhart Prairie, October 14, 1873; Florett, born 



MEMOIRS OF ISDIANA. 721 

April 21, 1860, died October 10, 1863. Mr. Violett was married November 28, 1878, 
to Melissa Leedy, of Elkhart township, a lady of pleasing presence, of good parent- 
age, cultivated and refioed in appearance, and highly respected. They have by this 
marriage an interesting faniilj' of children, who add sunshine to their already happy 
home and are the pride and delight of their parents and friends. It may he said of 
Mr. Violett that he has been, during all his life, deservedlj' esteemed in every rela- 
tion; as a citizen, a public official, as soldier, a husband, and a father, his every act 
has been such as to reflect credit upon him and increase the high esteem in which all 
have held him from his youth to the present time. It is not probable that there is 
in all Elkhart county another man whose declining years are crowned with greater 
respect and honor than those which are but the just acknowledgment of Mr. Violett's 
manly worth and dignity of character. 

Gen. Milo S. Hascall was born in Le Roy, Genesee Co., N. Y., August 5, 
1829, a son of Amasa and Phoebe (Smith) Hascall, natives of Massachusetts. His 
father occupied various official positions. Emigrating to New York he located at 
Canandaigua, and subsequently at Le Roy, Genesee county. The boyhood of 
Gen. Hascall was passed on the farm and in the common schools. At the age of 
sixteen he attended an academy, and at seventeen, in 1847, came west to Goshen, 
Ind., where three of his brothers then resided. Chauncey S. Hascall was then en- 
gaged in trade in Goshen and the General entered his store as clerk. This engage- 
ment lasted but three months, when he taught school for one term. He went to 
West Point in June, 1848, and remained there four years, graduating June 16, 1852, 
fourteenth in a class that entered ninety-six and gradtiated forty-three, a record of 
which any West Point student might well be proud. His class embraced Gen. Sheri- 
dan, Gen. Henry W. Slocum, of Brooklyn; Gen. D. S. Stanley, Jerome N. Bona- 
parte (the Baltimore member of the illustrious family), George L. Hartsuff, Gen. 
Charles R. Woods, Marshall T. Polk, Alex D. McCook, Gen. William Myers, Gen. A. 
V. Kautz, Gen. George Crook. After his graduation Gen. Hascall was promoted to 
the Third Artillery as brevet second lieutenant, and stationed at Fort Adams, R. I. , 
where he remained about one year. He was then promoted to a second lieutenancy 
in the Second Artillery, and was stationed at Old Point Comfort, Va., where he re- 
mained until 1853, when he resigned. He came to Goshen after leaving the army 
and traveled for some time thereafter. For one year he was a contractor on the 
Northern Indiana & Michigan Southern Railroad, after which he studied and event- 
ually began the practice of law. During his law practice he was elected prosecuting 
attorney for the court of common pleas. In the fall of 1859 he was elected clerk of 
Elkhart Circuit Court, which office he retained till the spring of 1861, when the war 
of the Rebellion broke out and called him to his country's defense. Gen. Hascall 
was one of the first volunteers to respond to the call for troops, and was elected 
captain of the first company raised in Goshen. This company arrived at Indian- 
apolis loo late, however, to be mustered into either of the six regiments required by 
the State, and was ol)liged to disband; but having learned that Capt. Hascall was a 
"West Pointer," Governor Morton appointed him captain and aid-de-eamp on the 
staff of Gen. Thomas A. Morris, in which capacity he organized and drilled six 
regiments in Camp Morton, preparatory to their taking the field. In June, 1861, 
he accompanied Gen. Morris to West Virginia, upon the first active movement of 
the war, and was in the fight at Philippi, the first engagement of the war after that 
at Fort Sumter. The next day after that event he was appointed colonel of the 
Seventeenth Indiana Regiment. Returning to Indianapolis he bore, on the way. 
Gen. Morris's report to Gen. McClellan, and bore also the flag captured at Philippi. 
His regiment, mustered for three years, arrived at Paikersburg, W. Va. , about the 
time of the first battle of Bull Run. After some service in western Maryland, the 
regiment was ordered to Grafton, W. Va.,and thence via Philippi and Beverly to 
Elkwater and Cheat Mountain, where it remained until the winter of 1861, partici- 
pating in all the engagements about Elkwater, Huttonville and Cheat Mountain. 



723 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

When the body of John A. Washington, of Mount Vernon fame, who was killed by 
Gol. Hascall's regiment at Elkwater, was borne back to the enemy, Col. Hascall re- 
ceived the tirst flag of truce sent during the war by Gen. Robert E. Lee. In De- 
cember, 1861, at Louisville, Ky.,he was placed in command of a brigade consisting 
of the Seventeenth and Fifteenth Indiana Regiments and the Sixth and Forty-third 
Ohio Regiments, and assigned to Nelson's division. Three mouths later he was trans- 
ferred to a brigade in Gen. Wood's division and commanded it at Nashville and Shi- 
loh. In April, 1862, he participated in the battle of Shiloh or Pittsburg Landing, 
and at the close of the engagement, when Gen. Beauregard requested permis- 
sion to bury the Confederate dead on the field, received the first flag of truce sent dur- 
ing the war by that general. April 20, 1862, he was without solicitation promoted to 
brigadier general of volunteers, and thereafter, until the fall of 1864, was actively en- 
gaged in all the operations of the armies of the West, most of the time in command of a 
division, and at times temporarily in command of an army corps. At the battle of Stone 
River he commanded the forces on the left after 10 o'clock of the first day, and was 
more instrumental than any other officer present in preventing the defeat on the right 
from becoming an utter rout of tiie Union army. After this battle he was sent to In- 
dianapolis to superintend the work of returning deserters from the army in the States 
of Indiana, Illinois and Ohio. While so engaged he was transferred from the Armj' 
of the Cumberland to the Army of the Ohio, and placed in command of the district 
of Indiana, and during his commaml there Vallandigham was arrested, the Chicago 
Times and numerous ''Copperhead" papers in Indiana were suppressed, and the 
great meeting of rebel sympathizers in Indianapolis, to seize the State arms and turn 
the State over to John Morgan, was foiled in its design. Later, in command of a 
division of the Twenty-third Army Corps, Gen. Hascall went with the army into 
east Tennessee and took an active part in the capture of Knoxville, and afterward in 
the siege of that city when Longstreet was attempting its capture. When Sherman 
moved upon Atlanta, after Longstreet' s repulse, Gen. Hascall marched at the head 
of his division, conspicuous in all the engagements that resulted in the capture of 
that city, his division planting the first batteries around the doomed town and de- 
livering the first shot and shell into the city of Atlanta. At the close of the war 
Gen. Hascall, in connection with John W. Irwin, Esq., engaged in the banking 
business at Goshen, under the name of the " Salem Bank," and became one of the 
most active and successful men in that city. In 1879 Messrs. Hascall & Irwin be- 
gan the manufacture of hardwood lumber on a large scale with John H. Lesh, under 
the firm name of John H. Lesh & Co. Since 1889 the business has been conducted 
under the firm name of Irwin & Hascall It comprehends the manufacture of large 
amounts of black walnut and other hardwood lumber, which is sold extensively in 
Germany, Great Britain, France, Australia and other foreign countries. In 1890 
Gen. Hascall withdrew his interest in the bank at Goshen and took up his residence 
in Chicago. Besides attending to the lumber industries at East Chicago, already 
referred to. he has, since locating in the World's Fair City, been actively interested 
in real estate matters, having been one of the projectors of the new Lexington Hotel 
and other important real estate interests. In politics Gen. Hascall is an ardent Re- 
publican, and during some campaigns has made numerous telling speeches in be- 
half of his party. In 1884 he was one of the electors- at-large for Mr. Blaine. He 
is a member of the Illinois Commandery of the Loyal Legion, and takes an active 
interest in its meetings and the conduct of its affairs. In 1886 he was married to 
Mrs. Rose S. Miller, of Canton, Ohio, who was formerly Miss Rose Schwarz, of 
that city. 

Dr. James F. Grimes. Integrity, intelligence and system are qualities which 
will advance the interests of any man or any profession and will tend to the pros- 
perity to which all aspire. Dr. Grimes' life in the professional arena has been char- 
acterized by constancy of purpose, conscientiousness, undoubted ability and energy, 
and as a natural result his time is fully taken up with the duties of a profession 



MEMOIRS OF INDI^IXA. 725 

which is the most arduous of iiny in the Held of scieace. He is of Irish, English 
and German descent. His grandfather, Samuel Grimes, was a resident of Freder- 
ick county, Md., and for his second wife married a Miss Grimes, of English stock, 
but not known to be related to him. To them seven children were given: Reuben, 
James, Samuel, Noah, Lena, Alvira and William. After the death of the mother of 
these children Mr. Grimes again married, his third wife presenting him with eleven 
children: Warren, Noah, Ann, Dorcas, Catherine, being the only ones remembered. 
Samuel Grimes was a prominent farmer and stockraiser of his day and ou his fine 
farm in Frederick county, Md. , he was called from life at the age of eighty-two 
years. His son, James Grimes, first saw the light in Frederick county, Md., and 
owing to the breaking up of the home by the death of his mother, he was appren- 
ticed to a miller, but was fortunate enough to receive a common-school education. 
He became a soldier in the War of 1812 and was a participant in the battle of 
Blandensburg. He was united in marriage with Rebecca, daughter of George and 
Rebecca Ott, of German descent, and around their hearthstone a family of nine 
children eventually gathered, all of whom lived to mature years: Matilda, David, 
Joseph, Joshua, Catherine, James F., Susanna, Elias and Lydia. James Grimes 
followed the calling of a miller in Maryland until forty years of age, at which time 
he became a farmer in the old Ott homestead, and in 1883 moved to Seneca county, 
Ohio, where he entered and purchased land until he was the owner of 280 acres. 
He pursued the calling of a farmer the remainder of his days, and lived to the 
advanced age of four-score years and four. He was a man of much intelligence, and 
his judgment was respected by the people of his section to such a degree that for 
twenty-eight years he discharged the duties of justice of the peace to the satisfac- 
tion of all concerned. Dr. James F. Grimes, his son and the subject of this sketch, 
was born on the old Ott homestead in Frederick county, Md., April 13, 1825, and 
when a youth received a practical education in the common schools. He was taken 
to Seneca county, Ohio, when a child of eight years, and when about nineteen year& 
of age, with his father's consent, he began the study of medicine with the family 
physician. Dr. Norton, and later pursued his investigations with Drs. Myers and 
Harris, of Bellevue, Ohio, after which he practiced one year. He then entered the 
Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he graduated in 1853, 
after which he almost immediately located at Mishawaka, Ind., of which place he 
has since been an active practitioner. During the Civil war he was the only physi- 
cian in Mishawaka, and in the early days of his practice traveled far and wide on 
horseback, carrying his medicines with him in a saddlebag. At that time the roads 
had hardly been cut out of the thick woods and were almost impassable south of 
Mishawaka, but this intrepid physician managed somehow to respond to the calls of 
suffering humanity, although his health, and even his life itself, was often endan- 
gered by his long rides through wind and weather, and his services were required 
almost day and night. There was much more sickness in those early days than at 
the present time, for the marshes had not yet been drained, the people were not as 
well clothed and fever and ague abounded. Dr. Grimes was married in Seneca 
county, Ohio, to Miss Caroline E., daughter of John and Elizabeth (Lay) Harris, 
and to their union four children were given: Rebecca E., Harriet, John H. and 
Mary A. Dr. Grimes keeps well posted in his profession, takes many of the leading 
medical journals of the day and owns a valuable medical library. He is a physician 
of forty years' experience, during which time he has met with excellent success and 
has a large practice, the most of which his son. Dr. John H., now attends to, the 
latter being a graduate of the Bennett Medical College of Chicago. He is married 
to Rose Fisher and has two children. Rebecca E. married Orlando Welklow (de- 
ceased) and is now residing at Port Chester, Alaska Territory. She has been for 
many years a successful teacher in the graded schools of South Bend and Mish- 
awaka. Harriet E. is married to E. Volney Bingham, an attorney of Mishawaka, 
and has four children. Mary A. married William Bortwick, who is with the Mish- 



726 PICTORIAL .LVZ» BIOGRAPHICAL 

awaka Manufacturing Company and has one child. Dr. Grimes is one of the 
respected citizens of the county, and owing to the man}' years that he has devoted 
to the cause of humanity he has won the gratitude and affection of all. There is 
but one other physician in the county who has a longer record as a resident physi- 
cian: Dr. Harris, of South Bend, his brother- in-law who came to this section the 
fall before he did. 

Daniel Smeltzeb is one of the most prominent young men of Elkhart county, 
Ind., and although he may be said to be self-educated, he is far above the average in 
business and executive ability, and is among the leading literary men of Elkhart 
county. He was reared in the woods of this section, and there for many years spent 
both his summers and winters hard at work in tilling the soil, his advantages for 
obtaining an education being exceedingly limited. Notwithstanding this rude rear- 
ing he was made of the right kind of metal, and this was bound to show itself in 
time. As soon as opportunity offered he began working for his board and attending 
school, for he had a natural inclination for books and had the intelligence to see 
that a good education would be of great benefit to him in a business way, and for 
some time was an attendant at Wakarusa, where he made rapid progress in his 
studies and laid the foundation of his present extended and comprehensive knowl- 
edge of books. Tbrough his own efforts he advanced step by step until he attained to 
the position of cashier of the Exchange Bank of Wakarusa, which position he has 
filled with great credit to himself for the past few years. Mr. Smeltzerwas born in 
Olive township, Elkhart Co., Ind., November 28, 1857, to John Smeltzer, an early 
pioneer of this section whose sketch appears in this work. He was one of a large 
family of children, and as his father's financial circumstances were none of the best, 
he had to work early and late to keep the wolf from the door, and at a very early 
age began the battle of life as a follower of the plow and in doing odd jobs around 
the farm. After becoming sufficiently well posted he began teaching school in the 
country, and later at Wakarusa, and for six years filled that position very creditably 
— one year in the primary department, one year in the intermediate department, and 
four years as principal. In addition to discharging his responsible position of 
cashier of the Exchange Bank, he has for twelve years filled the position of justice 
of the peace, and has impartially adjusted the difficulties of his neighbors. After 
becoming a pedagogue he attended the normal schools that were held in Goshen, 
and by putting his heart in his work and by earnest self-application, he became one 
of the leading teachers of the county, and his services were in demand throughout 
the county. He is agreeable and courteous in his demeanor, and his kind heart and 
willingness to oblige those with whom he has business or social relations has been 
the means of winning for him niunerous friends. He has always been a warm sup- 
porter of Republican principles, and being public spirited he has endeavored to 
promote the welfare of his section at all times, and among its worthy citizens is 
considered one of its most desirable acquisitions. Naturally the cause of education 
has found in him a stanch supporter, and at three different times he conducted a 
normal school in Wakarusa, but soon gave it up for other work. He is a member 
of the Christian Church, in which his wife also enjoys membership. On January 
26, 1879, he led to the altar Miss Ida M. Lammond, a native of Ohio, who was born 
May 25, 1862, to Courtland and Nancy (Grove) Lammond, which family came to 
this section from Ohio at an early day and settled in W^akarusa, where they resided 
until 1887, when they moved to Michigan. This family consisted of two daughters 
and four sons, of whom Mrs. Smeltzer is the youngest daughter. She has borne 
her husband four children as follows: Olive A., born April 5, 1883; Birch B., bom 
October 1, 1885; Hazel C, born July 24, 1888, and Forest D., born August 21, 
1892. Mr. Smeltzer and his wife are well known and much respected in AVakarusa. 

Very Rev. August B. Oechtering, of Mishawaka, is the youngest son of Gerhard 
H. and Theresa (Benningmeier) Oechtering, who was born in the province of West- 
phalia, Prussia, September 8, 1837, and completed his education in the College of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 727 

Rheine in 1S58. In July of the same year he came to America to prepare himself 
for the extensive mission of the Catholic Church, for which he always had a strong 
inclination, and for this purpose the newly appointed Bishop Luers of Ft. Wayne, 
Ind. , to whom he had applied for admission into his diocese, sent him to the Semi- 
nary of Mt. St. Mary's of the West near Cincinnati, where he completed his the- 
ological studies in May, 1861. On the 17th of the same month he was ordained 
priest of the Cathedral of Ft. Wayne by Bishop Luers, and soou after his ordina- 
tion was appointed rector of the much neglected mission of St. Joseph's Church at 
Delphi, Ind., where, from May 26, 1861, till December 22, 1865, he labored with 
good success, building up a good congregation and school. At the same time he also 
attended several small missions in the surrounding country. In 1864 he accom- 
panied his kind friend, the Bishop Luers, to Europe, where, after an absence of six 
years, he visited his aged parents, who at that time celebrated their golden wedding, 
holding a reunion of their eight children and their families. In 1865 he was ap- 
pointed rector of St. Mary's Church at Avilla, Ind. While there he labored eight- 
een months with eleven different congregations in four counties. In Waterloo a 
new church was erected, at Kendallville an old one was nicely repaired. He also 
labored in other places during this time, and during his short stay in Avilla he de- 
livered many lectures upon the Catholic subjects such as "Confessions," "Popery" 
and the "True Church," in his different missions, thus clearing away many preju- 
dices and silencing many false accusers. In 1867, at the request of the Bishop, he 
took charge of the St. Joseph's Church at Mishawaka, where he has since labored 
with good success. In December, 1879, the Bishop of Ft. Wayne, Dr. Dwenger, 
tendered him a much larger and more remunerative field of labor, Huntington, but 
he declined, as he had formed an attachment to the citizens of Mishawaka and pre- 
ferred remaining at his old post. In 1875 he again went to Europe, visited Rome 
and had an audience with the venerable and saintly Pius IX. He also traveled 
through France, England and Ireland. This last visit was a very profitable one to 
him in various ways and was a source of much pleasure. In 1886 the Catholic 
Church of Mishawaka was entirely inadequate to supply the wants of the congrega- 
tion and a fund for the building of a new church was started by Father Oechtering, 
and in 1890 active preparations were begun for the erection of a new church, but it 
was deferred on account of the pastor's poor health, and five months of thai year were 
spent in traveling through Europe in search of health, and he was much benefited 
by the change. Upon his return he began active work again, and in the beginning 
of 1891 the foundation was laid and the corner-stone placed in position by Rt.-Rev. 
Joseph Rademancher, of Nashville, Tenn., the ceremony taking place August 30, 
1891, before an audience of about 10,000 people. The total cost of the new church 
will be nearly §50,000. It is 160x60 feet, its spire rising to the height of ISO feet. 
It will be occcupied in October, 1893. Father Oechtering has been president of the 
Catholic School Board of the diocese of Ft. Wayne, also one of the consulters to the 
Bishop of Ft. Wayne, which is a prominent position. He is dean of the Fifth Dis- 
trict of Fort Wayne, presiding at their semi-annual meetings. He is rich in the 
love of his people, and of him it may be said, "Well done thou good and faithful 
servant.' ' 

A. S. Sensenich, M.D. There is probably not a physician in Elkhart county, 
Ind., who is known as widely or who enjoys the practice that is given to the suliject 
of this sketch: and that he deserves the good fortune that has attended his efforts 
is indisputable, for he is not only honest, reliable and intelligent, but is sympathetic 
yet cheerful in the sick room and possesses the happy faculty of winning the confi- 
dence and liking of his patients, which has much to do with their restoration to 
health. He has had an ofiice at Wakarusa for the past twelve years, and through- 
out that section and, in fact, throughout the county he is considered an authority in 
medical lore, and is highly regarded by the medical fraternity. He was born in 
Lancaster county, Peun., August 3, 1849, to Levi and Mary (Stauffer) Seusenich, 



728 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

the former of whom was also born in Pennsylvania on the old homestead there that 
has been in possession of the family for many generations. His parents, Francis 
and Elizabeth (Weaver) Sensenich, were early pioneers of the State, and lived and 
died on the old family homestead in East Earl township, Lancaster county. Upon 
reaching manhood, Levi Sensenich took unto himself a wife in the person of Mary 
Stauffer, whose parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Martin) Stauffer were also early set- 
tlers of that region. Mr. and Mrs. Sensenich lived on the old homestead on which 
the former's parents had settled, and there he paid the last debt of nature in 1802, 
leaving his widow with a family of five children to care for. The father was a 
prominent man in his section of the country, and took an active part in political mat- 
ters, being first an enthusiastic Whig and later a Republican. A life-long member 
of the Mennonite Church, he took an important part in church matters, and was in 
every respect an excellent and public-spirited citizen. Shortly after his death his 
widow and the subject of this sketch, who was then a lad of sixteen years, emigrated 
to Elkhart county, Ind., the other members of the family being John, who died in 
childhood; Susan, who is the wife of Daniel High, of Olive township; Fianna, who 
also died young, and Benjamin F. Upon the removal of Mrs. Sensenich to this 
section she purchased a farm in Olive township, and on this farm the Doctor gave 
his mother valuable aid and such time as could be spared from his labors was spent 
in attending the district schools, where he was considered exceptionally well ad- 
vanced in his studies. His kindly nature instinctively turned to the broad field of 
medicine for his life work, and in 1878 he began his medical studies in the ofiice of 
Dr. H. T. Mangemy, now of South Bend, but then of Wakarusa. In 1879 he 
entered Rush Medical College of Chicago, from which he graduated in 1881, and 
after returning home at once formed a partnership with his former preceptor, who 
was a prominent physician. At the end of a few years Dr. Sensenich succeeded his 
partner and took upon his shoulders the entire charge of the sick throughout his 
section, and was soon patronized so liberally that his time was occupied with the 
duties of his calling almost day and night. He is a member of the State Medical 
Association and the Elkhart County Medical Society, in each of which he is highly 
honored and is considered an acquisition. He makes it the object and aim of his 
life to keep in touch with everything connected with his profession, is thoroughly 
up with the times in the practice of his noble and useful calling, and his name has 
become a familiar household word in the region in which he resides. Politically he 
is Republican, and has always manifested much interest in the success of his party, 
and has also manifested much interest in the prosperity of ^Yakarnsa, being excep- 
tionally public spirited. In 1868 Martha Brnbaker became his wife, she being a 
daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Nusbaum) Brnbaker, the former of whom was a 
native of Pennsylvania and the latter an Ohioan. They were married in Ashland 
county, Ohio, and were among the first to settle within the limits of Elkhart county, 
Ind. Mr. Brnbaker was first a farmer of Harrison township, but later followed the 
same occupation in Olive township and eventually became a leading dry goods 
merchant of Wakarusa, in which town he passed from life in 1880. His widow is 
still living in this county. Their imion resulted in the birth of the following chil- 
dren: Abraham, who is a banker of Warsaw, Ind.; John, a lawyer of the same 
place; Martha, wife of Dr. Sensenich; Mary, wife of George Kilmer, of Meutoue, 
Ind., and Anna, who is the wife of George Mountjoy, of Elkhart, Ind. Mrs. Sen- 
senich was born in 1849, and at the time of her parents' settlement in the county 
she was a small girl. The Doctor and bis wife have a handsome home in Wakarusa, 
and are highly regarded in the social circles of that place. Three of their children 
are living and two are dead. Ida E. is the wife of William Clay, a prominent 
young druggist of Wakarusa; Roscoe L. is at school, and Oma F. is with her par- 
ents. Bertha M. died at the age of eleven years, and Agnes V. when two years of 
age. 

Valentine Berkey. Among those who have engaged in other occupations out- 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 729 

side the chosen channels of agricultural life is Mr. Berkey, who, no doubt, inherits 
his thrift, energy and perseverance from his German ancestors. In tracing the 
genealogy of this family, we find that the immediate progenitor of the family came 
from Germany and settled in Pennsylvania at a very earlj' date. The grandfather 
of our subject, Peter Berkey, was born in Somerset county, Penn., and was a miller, 
a manufacturer and a lumber merchant. He married a Miss Fyock, and nine chil- 
dren were born to them: Daniel, Peter, Joseph, Christian, Elizabeth, Polly, Rachel, 
Catherine and Sally. Mr. Berkey passed all his days in his native county and died 
there when eighty years of age. He was a Seven Day Baptist in his religious belief, 
and a man of good character. He was held high in the estimation of all, was justice 
of the peace for many years, and his opinion and views were sought on nearly 
all subjects. In politics he was at one time an old line Whig, but he subsequently 
espoused the principles of the Republican party. His son, Daniel Berkey, father of 
subject, was also a native of Somerset county, Penn., born in the year 1808, and 
received the common-school education of his day. He cleared up a farm in his 
native county, and was there married to Miss Frances, daughter of Jacob Huffman. 
Five living children were born to this marriage: David, Andi-ew, Valentine, Peter D. 
and Mary, all born in Somerset county. Owing to his good management and in- 
dustry, Mr. Berkey accumulated a handsome property and became the owner of 
about 1,000 acres of land. He was an extensive farmer and made his home in 
his native county until past middle age. Then, as some of his children, Valentine, 
Peter D., Andrew and Mary, had settled in Elkhart county, Ind., he sold his land 
in Pennsylvania and between 1865 and 1870 located in Harrison township, this 
county. He still resides in this county and is now eighty-one years of age. His 
long life has been spent in usefulness, and although the winters of time have touched 
him with their frost, he still enjoys comparatively good health. A member of the 
German Baptist Church, he takes an active interest in all good work and has con- 
tributed liberally to his church. In polities he supports the Republican party and 
advocates its principles and policy. His character is above reproach, he has ever 
been industrious and energetic, and no man in the county is more highly esteemed. 
Like his father and grandfather, our subject, Valentine Berkey, was born in Somer- 
set county, Penn., and his natal day is May 23, 1833. In the common schools of 
his day he received a fair education and he was early trained to the duties of farm 
life. In November, 1854, when in his twenty-second year, he came to Elkhart 
county, Ind., and made a settlement in Goshen. For some time he worked by the 
day in clearing land, and on the '23d of April, 1857, he was married to Miss Hettie 
Miller, daughter of Jonas and Barbara (Hay) Miller. Mr. Miller was born in Mont- 
gomery county, Ohio, but is a descendant of a prominent Pennsylvania family. To 
his marriage were born two children, Henry and Hettie. In 1836 Mr. Miller moved 
to South Bend. Ind., and there followed the mason and bricklayer's trade for some 
time. He died live years later when still a comparatively young man. He was a 
member of the German Baptist Church and was an honorable, worthy citizen. In 
1857 Mr. Berkey settled on eighty acres of land in Harrison township, cleared it of 
the heavy timber covering it. and as the years passed by added to the original tract 
until he became the owner of 160 acres. This was a tine farm and he remained on 

it until 1880, when he bought his present farm of acres. Upon this he has 

erected a tasty, rural residence and his outljuildings and other improvements are of 
first class order. Besides his farming industry, Mr. Berkey is engaged in the lumber 
business with his brother, Peter, and is doing an extensive business, buying all his 
lumber in this county. He is now in prosperous circumstances and is one of the 
substantial men of the county. Besides the Goshen property, Mr. Berkey owns town 
property in Medicine Lodge, Kan., also town property in Crisfield and Hazelton, 
Kan. He is a gratifying example of the self-made men of Elkhart county, and his 
reputation as an honorable, upright citizen can not be surpassed. His marriage 
resulted in the birth of seven children, as follows: Monroe J., Austin D. , Ida A., 



780 PICTORIAL .L.VD BIOGRAPHICAL 

Ira L., Ella M., Nettie A. and Floyd V. A Republican in his political views, Mr. 
Berkey held the office of trustee of Harrison township for eight years, discharging 
the duties incumbent on this office in a very satisfactory manner. He is public 
spirited and takes an active interest in having good roads and schools. He was 
a member of the school board for eight years and road supervisor several terms. 
His children have all been well educated. Ella M. , graduated at the graded school 
of Goshen, and Monroe J. attended commercial college at Pierce, Ohio, and is now 
bookkeeper in the hardware store of Ort, Berkey & Co., of Goshen; Ida A., married 
O. S. Compton, who is engaged in the implement business in Goshen, and they have 
two children; Austin D. married Miss Lorna Cripe, aud is engaged in farming on 
the home place; they have two children; Monroe J. married Miss Matilda Baer, 
and is bookkeeper in Goshen. The remainder of the children are at home. 

Daniel W. Berkey is a son of Andrew Berkey, who is one of the leading old- 
time farmers of Elkhart county; for the past forty years he has tilled the soil in 
Harrison township. He owes his nativity to Somerset county, Penn., where he 
was born May 19, 1831, the second child born to Daniel and Fannie (Huffman) 
Berkey, and on the old home farm which his parents owned in Somerset county, 
he received his rearing aud a practical knowledge of the work, at which he afterward 
became so successful. He not only inherited sterling qualities from his worthy 
parents, but was reared to habits of industry and economy, which made his influence 
felt in the different localities in which his lot was cast in later years. He gained an 
education, of the old-fashioned kind, in the district school near his boyhood's home 
and remained with his parents until he was legally responsible for his own conduct, 
at which time he started to do for himself, and the first year worked for his father 
on the farm, and in the winter chopped wood and worked for various parties. In 
1853 he was married to Miss Rachel Wertz, a daughter of John and Snsan (Berkey) 
Wertz. She was born in Somerset county, Penn., June 17, 1830, of which section 
her parents, who were of German descent, were also natives and where the mother 
is still living at the age of eighty-five years. Her husband died some time ago. 
Rachel was one of their eleven children: Caroline, Rachel. Susan, Elizabeth, Cath- 
erine, Lucinda, Mary A., William, David, Jacob and Peter. The most of these 
children are living in Pennsylvania, one in California and the other in Indiana. 
Soon after his marriage Mr. Berkey emigrated to Indiana and settled in Harrison 
township on the farm now owned by John Musser, located on Section 10, but prior 
to locating here had resided from April to November, 1855, in Fulton county, Ohio. 
He first purchased 120 acres of laud and started to improve it, making earnest en- 
deavors to clear it from the heavy timber which covered it. After a great deal of 
hard labor he succeeded in accomplishing this, and in addition to his first purchase 
bought forty acres more of timber land. He is now residing in a fine brick farm 
house, has a large bank barn, other substantial farm buildings, good fences, in fact, 
everything about his place shows the thrifty and practical farmer. Mr. Berkey lived 
on this farm from the spring of 1856 to 1884, then purchased a small farm of thirty- 
six acres in Section 3 and is now living a retired life. He sold his old home in 1887 
to John Musser. He has always been interested in political affairs and has ever 
cast his vote for the Republican party, the principles of which he espouses at all 
times. He is very public spirited and has proven a useful citizen of the county. In 
early days he was something of a hunter and shot numerous deer, turkeys and thou- 
sands of squirrels. He was considered a fine shot and on one of his hunting expe- 
ditions in Ohio he shot twenty-one squirrels in less than two hours. He still enjoys 
this sport, and in addition is a worthy disciple of Isaak Walton. He is a member of 
the German Baptist Church, in which he has kept the faith for about thirty-five 
years. He has been interested in county and township improvement, and for a 
number of years held the office of township supervisor. He lost his first wife July 12, 
1883, at the old home, she having been a life-long member of the German Baptist 
Church, and was deeply interested in all Christian work. She became the mother 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 731 

of seven children, oue of whom died in infancy. Their names are as follows: Eliza- 
beth, who was boru October 5, 1853, is now the wife of Mason Barringer and resides 
on a farm in Wayne county. 111. ; Daniel W., who is a farmer of Harrison township 
was born on August 5, 1856; Mary A. was boru May 10, 1855, and died in Septem- 
ber of that year; Melinda was born June 7, 1858, and is living in Arkansas City, 
Kan., the wife of David L. Means, by whom she has three living children: Wilna, 
Mary E. and Orval, and two deceased, Frankie and Ray; Albert was born May 7, 
1861, and is engaged in the manufacture of buggies and wagons in Goshen, is a man 
of family and is married to Nora Murray; Hiram who was born April 5, 1803, is 
married to Miss Sadie Compton and lives in Goshen; and Allen who was born March 
30, 1865, is living at Grand Rapids, Mich., and is unmarried. Mr. Berkey married 
his present wife, Mrs. Nancy Shively, the widow of Henry Shively, on November 28, 
1883. She was born in Carroll county, lud., August 9, 1839, a daughter of Louis 
and Catherine (Lesh) Ho£F, the former of whom was born in Ohio, a son of 
John and Nancy (Barr) HuflF, who were early pioneers of that State from Penn- 
sylvania. The Huffs are of German extraction. Louis Huff, with his parents, 
became a resident of Carroll county, Ind., at a very early day and was there 
called from life. His widow survives him and still resides in Carroll county, 
being now eighty-one years of age. Their union resulted in the birth of the 
following children: Abigail, Hannah. Nancy. Joseph, Gabriel, Catherine, Julia 
A. and Louis. Mrs. Berkey was reared in Carroll county, and there made her 
home until her removal to this county as Mrs. Berkey. She was left a widow 
May 10, 1880, having become the mother of seven children: Louis D., born 
March 1, 1859; Elias F., born August 4, 1860; Mary A., born June 6, 1862; 
Lydia C, born April 17, 1863: Aaron G.,born March 13, 1865; Moses E., born 
March 18, 1867; and Lavinia M. , born March 28, 1869. Mrs. Berkey is a member 
of the German Baptist Church and is an earnest Christian and has proven herself a 
kind and considerate wife and mother. She and her husband are ranked among the 
substantial people of the county and have many warm and devoted friends. Mr. 
Berkey is a Repuljlican in politics. Daniel W. Berkey was born on the farm belong- 
ing to his father, Andrew Berkey, in the northern part of Harrison township, being 
one of his seven children. He first saw the light of day on August 5, 1856, and at- 
tended the district schools in the vicinity of his home, where he obtained a practical 
knowledge of the common branches. At the age of twenty- one years he left the 
shelter of the paternal roof and began cutting down timber in the neighborhood. 
Being naturally energetic, wide-awake and thrifty, he made a success of all his un- 
dertakings. On November 3, 1878, he decided to enter the married state, and on No- 
vember 3, 1S7S, his union with Miss Christina Sherman took place, she being a 
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Chipp) Sherman, the former of whom was a native 
German and after coming to this country settled first in Ohio, and in 1865 in Indi- 
ana and until his death in 18S3 resided on a farm in Harrison township. Later his 
widow became the wife of Samuel Groff, of Harrison township. She bore Mr. 
Sherman eight children, one of whom died young. Those living are: Henry, Chris- 
tena, John, Mary, Martha, Lizzie and Catherine. Mrs. Berkey was born in Ohio 
November 19, 1857, and was about nine years of age when her parents moved to 
Elkhart countj\ After their marriage Daniel W. Berkey settled on a farm, and since 
that time has devoted his attention to tilling the soil. He first became the owner of 
land in 1880, but later sold it and in 1885 bought the farm on which he is now re- 
siding. He now has 103 acres of land, all in one tract, which, at the time of his 
purchase, was partly improved. As a farmer he has been decidedlj' successful, and 
has become one of the most prominent men of Harrison township. In politics he is 
a Republican, takes a deep interest in the affairs of his section, and for some time 
past has held the office of justice of the peace of Harrison township. He is in every 
respect public spirited. He and his wife are the parents of six children : Sadie V., born 
September 10, 1879; John C. , born March 7, 1881; Bertha M., born November 15, 



732 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

1883; Lizzie, born November 14, 1885, died when about two months old; Elva M., 
born April — , 1887, and Ora A. born August 18, 1890. Mr. Berkey and his wife 
hold an enviable position in the section in which they reside, have a comfortable and 
hospitable home and have numerous warm friends. 

Peter D. Bekkey. Among the reliable aud substantial farmers of Elkhart 
county, Ind., may be mentioued Peter D. Berkey, who has done a great deal to 
bring the county to its present admirable state of cultivation for he was reared to 
the calling of a farmer, and this occupation has received his attention to a greater 
or less extent up to the present time. He was born in Somerset county, Penn., 
July 22, 1844, his parents being Daniel P. and Fanny (Huffman) Berkey, both of 
whom were also natives of Somerset county, where they were reared, educated, mar- 
ried, and resided until 1866. when they took up their residence in Elkhart county, 
Ind., settling in Harrison township, where they resided many years, becoming well- 
known and highly respected for their honorable walk through life and their correct 
mode of living. The mother is deceased, but the father is now a resident of Con- 
cord township, having been for many years engaged in tilling the soil at which he 
made an excellent record for himself as a thorough, practical aud energetic agricult- 
urist. For years he has be enretired from the active duties of life and is enjoying 
a serene old age and a competency amply sufficient for his wants and which has 
been obtained by honest and unceasing efforts in earlier years. The Republican 
party has always received his hearty support and he has long been a worthy mem- 
ber of the Duukard Church. Peter D. Berkey spent his youth in the country where 
his time and strength were devoted to assisting his father on the farm, and he re- 
ceived such education in the common schools as was thought necessary to fit him for 
a successful career in the ordinary walks of life. When starting out to make his 
own way in the world it was perhaps but natural that he should choose farming as 
a means of earning a livelihood, and to this occupation much of his time has been 
devoted and has proven successful. In addition to this occupation he has given 
considerable attention to logging, selling where he could do the best for himself 
financially. He has pursued a successful agricultural implement business, and 
throughout his career he has been a model of Inisiness rectitude, a man of practical 
ideas and of marked executive ability. He is the owner of a good farm of ninety 
acres which, though small, is carefully looked after aud yields a larger annual in- 
come than many more extensive and more pretentious places. This place is well 
stocked. He was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Berkey, in 1867, she being 
a native of Somerset county, Penn., and to their union six children have been born: 
Idella, Warren, Julia, Morris, Foster and AUie. As a stanch member of the Re- 
publican party, Mr. Berkey has held the office of township trustee for nine years. 
He is one of those men who has the happy faculty of making warm friends of all 
those with whom he associates, and his kindliness of character is manifest at all 
times. He is eminently a man of peace, and the charity and kindliness of his nature 
are strongly evidenced in his conceding to others the value of their opinions, though 
they may conflict with those he entertains. He is a worthy and representative citi- 
zen, progressive in his ideas and tendencies, and has done much to improve the 
schools and roads in Harrison township, where he resides. He is not only hospitable 
himself, but his wife also possesses that worthy attribute and his home is a favorite 
resort of the elite of his neighborhood. 

Lewis Berkey. The social, political and business history of this section is filled 
with the deeds and doings of self-made men, and no man in Elkhart county, Ind., is 
more deserving the appellation than Mr. Berkey, for he marked out his own career 
in youth and has steadily followed it up to the present, his prosperity being attrib- 
utable to his earnest and persistent endeavor as well as to the fact that he always 
consistently tried to do as he would be done by. He is the owner of a well-improved 
farm of ninety acres, and the admirable manner in which every nook and cranny of 
it is kept and the fine state of cultivation in which it now is, has been brought about 



MEMOIRS OF TSPIAXA. T33 

by the individual efforts of Mr. Berkej*, and the result has been as satisfactory as 
though his farm was a much larger one. He was born in Somerset county, Penn., 
May 25, 1839, a son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Poorman) Berkey, tlie natal State of 
the former being Pennsylvania and that of the latter Ohio. The Berkeys originally 
came from Germany, and were early settlers of the Keystone State where, from the 
very first, they were connected with the agricultural interests. This occupation 
received the attention of Daniel Berkey throughout life and he was following it at 
the time of his death, which occurred in Pennsylvania. His widow survives him, is 
eighty-seven years of age, and is a resident of Elkhart county, Ind. When the 
straiued relations between the North and South culminated in civil war in 1861, the 
services of all able-bodied men was very much desired, and Mr. Berkey stood nine 
drafts during that period. His early education was acquired in the State of his 
birth, and there he always learned the details of farming, which honorable, healthful 
and independent calling has always received his attention. Since 1864 he has been 
a resident of Elkhart county, Ind., and for over twenty years he has been a resident 
of his present place, and has made nearly all the improvements thereon. He was 
for three j^ears engaged in the implement business in Goshen, but preferred to 
devote his attention to other pursuits, and has since found his early occupation of 
farming a very congenial and remunerative calling. He was married in 1861 to 
Miss Mary Berkey, by whom he has two children. Allie and Lizzie. Mr. Berkey is 
careful, prudent and economical, and no man in the county stands higher for honor 
and integrity. He was one of thirteen children born to his parents, nine of whom 
are living: Elijah, of Pennsylvania; Josiah. of Elkhart county, Ind. ; Eliza; Barbara; 
Hannah; Christian; Catherine; Lewis and Polly. Lewis taught several terms of 
school in his youthful days while a resident of Pennsylvania. 

Jacob S. Simon. John Adam Simon, the great-grandfather of the subject of this 
sketch, was the second son of a German family of rank and wealth. He left home 
on account of a difficult}' with his elder brother (and heir), came to America about 
the year 1735, landing at Baltimore; he remained in Maryland a few years, married 
Mary Elizabeth Diehl, moved to or near Shippensburg, Penn., where the grand- 
father of J. S. Simon first saw the light of day in 1751, and named John Andrew. 
At the age of twelve, or in 1763, the Indians captured him in the sugar camp where 
he was gathering sap. The rest of the family escaped to a fort near by. Michael, 
his older brother, made his escape from the camp on a horse. The horse died after 
reaching the fort from severe gunshot wounds; Michael was not hurt. The house 
was burnt by the Indians, together with all papers and records of John Adam, who 
afterward, through the death of his older brother without issue, became the heir to 
the lands and titles of the family, but the loss of his papers and attachment to his 
adopted country induced him to forego wealth and ease, and he never made any 
attempt to prove his identity. He died at the age of ninety-two. The lad, Andrew, 
with other captives, was taken through the wilderness, across the mountains and 
down the Ohio River to an Indian town at or near where Chillicothe (Ohio) now 
stands. He was adopted by an Indian mother, whose son was slain during the raid. 
She was very kind to him, and he being a bright, active lad, she soon became much 
attached to him. He had the care of a cow that she owned. This probably saved 
his life, as in time of scarcity of food he would steal out at night, milk the cow and 
drink the milk, and thus assuage the pangs of hunger. His foster mother would 
often take food from her own children and give it to him, saying that he could not 
stand hardships as they could. His captivity lasted seven months. He was released 
with 274 other whites under a treaty or threat to burn all their towns if they did not 
give up their white captives. His Indian mother shed bitter tears at parting. John 
Andrew Simon returned to his father's home, and was married to Elizabeth Goeck- 
ler about 1775, living east of the mountains until 1784, when he moved to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., with two pack horses. He took his wife and four children, 
together with their effects, across the mountains to his new home; the journey lasted 



734 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

nine days, raining almost every day. Andrew Simon was a sturdy old Pennsylvania 
pioneer and erected one of the first grist-mills in Washington county, that State. 
It was run by horse power. He was a man of honorable character and well re- 
spected. The children born to this marriage were ten in number those remembered 
being: Jacol), George, Andrew, Peter, Adam, Elizabeth, Barbara and Susan. John 
Andrew died at the age of ninety. The fourth son, Peter Simon, father of our sub- 
ject, first saw the light of day on his father's farm in Washington county, Penn., in 
1796, and received a common education in both the English and German languages. 
He became a school teacher, but was also engaged in tilling the soil. He selected 
his wife in the person of Miss Catherine, daughter of Andrew and Catherine Dager, 
and to them were born nine children who lived to mature years: Susan, Daniel, 
Rebecca, Catherine, Jacob, Leah, Henry, Annie and Solomon (who died in the Civil 
War, Fifth Indiana Battery). After his marriage our subject moved to Columbiana 
county, Ohio, where his father owned land, and settled on ninety-nine acres. By 
industry he added to this forty acres and cleared his farm of the heavy timber with 
which it was covered. He was a pioneer of that county, and made his home there until 
1852. Previous to that he had entered 480 acres of land in Nol)le county, Ind. , and 
he moved on this farm in the last mentioned year. With the assistance of his sons 
he cleared up a line farm and was known as one of the substantial, worthy citizens 
of the community. Both he and wife were members of the Lutheran Church and 
he held the office of deacon for many years. He was very religious and assisted in 
building churches, etc., and contributed liberally to the Lutheran church. In poli- 
tics he was originally an old line Whig, but later he affiliated with the Republican 
party. He died from the effects of a fall in Noble county, Ind., when sixty-seven 
years of age. Being a substantial farmer he gave each of his seven children who 
grew to mature years ninety-six acres of land. He was a man of whom any com- 
munity might be proud. He had two brothers, Jacob and George, in the War of 
1812. His son, Jacob S. Simon, subject of this sketch, was born December 21, 
1832, in Columbiana county, Ohio, near New Lisbon, on his father's farm. Ovping 
to the amount of labor required to clear the home place, young Simon was obliged 
to work at an early age. He received a common school education. On March 9, 
1857, when twenty-four years of age, he married Miss Caroline Amos, daughter of 
Andrew and Catherine (Mottinger) Amos. Mr. Amos was born in Alsace, Loraine, 
and was twenty-one years of age when he came to America. This was in 1832 and 
he followed the trade of wagon-maker at New Lisbon, Ohio, for a few years. After 
marriage he moved to Franklin Square, the same county, and there resided until 
1852, when he entered Noble county, Ind. He became the owner of a good farm of 
eighty acres, where his widow, now eighty-two, resides, and there his children, 
six in number, were reared principally. They were named as follows: Sarah, Car- 
oline, Wesley, Andrew, Melissa and Levina. Mr. and Mrs. Amos were members of 
the Lutheran Church, and he held the office of elder. Both were classed among the 
best citizens of the county, and were prominent in all good work. On the ninety- 
six acres of land in Noble county, Ind., which his father had given him, our subject 
settled soon after his marriage. After partly clearing this and residing on it for 
three years he then moved with his father (who died in about one j'ear), then sold 
his own and bought part of the old homestead, where he continued to live until 1865, 
at which date he came to Elkhart county and settled on his present farm which then 
consisted of eighty acres of partly cleared land. By industry and perseverance he 
has added to the original tract until he owns 133 acres of good land, two miles from 
the court-house in Goshen, and has made excellent improvements in the way of 
residence, out-buildings, etc. He and wife are members and regular attendants of 
the English Lutheran Church of Goshen. When twenty-one years of age Mr. 
Simon was elected clerk of Swan township. Noble Co., Ind., and held that position 
in a creditable and satisfactory ruanner for five years. In politics he advocates the 
principles of the Republican party. He and Mrs. Simon are the parents of seven 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 735 

children as follows: Annie E., Jennie B. , Cora M., Samuel C, Lillian E. , Cbarles 
F. and Frank E. Mr. Simon is a friend of education. His children are all well edu- 
cated, having attended the common schools of the township and the graded ones of 
Goshen. Mr. Simon is a stanch friend of temperance, and an honored citizen. The 
Simon family is one of the honored ones of Elkhart county, and all its members are 
intelligent people and worth}' descendants of old colonial stock. During the Simon 
reunion at Laotto, Ind., a few years ago, there were present 4tlO of the Simon name 
and 200 blood relatives. Mr. Simon's daughter, Annie E., married John Clark, a 
farmer of Elkhart county, and they have five children. Jennie B. married Frank 
Smily, a farmer of Elkhart county, and they have three children. Cora M. mar- 
ried Samuel Smoker, a farmer of this township, and three children have blessed 
them. Samuel is in the West, and the remainder of the children are at home. 
Many of the Simon family have lived to a good age, the Michael of the first family 
died at ninety-eight, and many of the older ones at eighty and ninety. 

William B. Wkight, justice of the peace of South Bend, Ind., was born in Or- 
leans county, N. Y. , December 29, 1852, a son of Berkley and Margaret (Kelley) 
Wright, also natives of the Empire State, the father being a shoemaker by trade, 
who pursued that calling in New York until his career was closed by death. Foiir 
of his eight children survive him, of whom William B. is the eldest. He was reared 
in the county of his birth and while pursuing the paths of learning in the common 
country schools, which he attended only a short time each year, he learned the de- 
tails of agriculture on the home farm. Owing to the fact that his father was by no 
means wealthy, he was compelled to make his own way in the world from early man- 
hood and followed that occupation until he attained his majority, at which time he 
began working in a shoe factory and for a few years thereafter turned his hand to 
any honorable employment that he could find to do. In 1883 he came to South 
Bend and worked for different firms for some time, but in April, 1888, he was elected 
to his present office, and honored with a re-election in 1890, his term of office ex- 
piring in 1886. He has discharged the duties of this position in an able and efficient 
manner and adjusted the difficulties of his neighbors in a way that won him universal 
approval. Although he has had to fight the battle of life for himself from an early 
day, he has fought the fight bravely and has now a competency. His correct man- 
ner of living has made him many friends, and in every respect he is a worthy, hon- 
ored and useful resident of South Bend. Socially he is a member of the K. O. T. 
M. He was married in 1877 to Miss Anna Metzger, by whom he has two children: 
Willie I. and Dollie May. 

John W^ Mitchell. The family of which the subject of this sketch is a repre- 
sentative, is one well known to the people of Elkhart county, for one or more of its 
members have been identified with its agricultural interests since 1850. In that 
year the parents of Mr. Mitchell, James G. and Rebecca A. (Frizzell) Mitchell, 
came to Elkhart county, settled in Jefferson township, and there resided many years. 
About 1880 they removed to Bristol and there thefather's death occurred on July 11, 
1888. The mother is still living and finds a comfortable home with her son John 
W. She was a native of the Buckeye State and the father of Maryland. Our sub- 
ject was born in Licking county, Ohio, October 18, 1839, and came with his parents 
to this county where he finished his growth and education. He assisted his father 
in cultivating the soil and continued under the parental roof until November 19, 
1865, when Miss Catherine B. Bartmess became his wife. She was born November 
10, 1842, and the daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Stutsman) Bartmess, the 
former a native of Maryland and the latter of Elkhart county, Ind. Both are now 
deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell have been born these children: Laura B., 
Hattie E., Charles L. (deceased) and William F. Laura B. Mitchell married H. W. 
Kantz, a young lawyer who is practicing in Bristol; Hattie E. Mitchell married W. 
A. Kautz, who is conducting a butcher shop in Bristol. Mr. Mitchell owns 140 
acres of good, productive land in this township and is the owner of 160 acres in Ala- 



736 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

bama. He is a wide awake, tliorougbgoing farmer and stockraiser, making standard- 
bred horses a specialty, and bis agricultural interests are conducted in a very 
successful manner. He bas a comfortable and pleasant rural bome and has every 
thing to make it attractive and pleasant. He and Mrs. Mitchell are members of the 
Limited Brethren Church, and in politics he is a strong supporter of Republican 
principles. He served the Union faithfully in the Eebellion, enlisting September 
11, 1861, in Company K, Thirtieth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was 
in service three years, being discharged at Indianapolis, September 24, 1864, at the 
expiration of time. He participated in the battles of Green River, Dalton, Ga., 
besides numerous severe skirmishes. He was on duty at the barracks at Louisville, 
Ky., for about a year during his time of service. 

\ViLLi.\ii H. Oken, of the firm of Oren & Baker, wholesale and retail grocers 
of South Bend, is a very enterprising business man, and has a patronage that 
extends to all parts of the city, as well as throughout the surrounding country. All 
bis goods may be relied upon as being in tine condition, as well as of high-class 
quality. He is anative of York county, Penn., where he was born September 11, 1849, 
a son of John and Elizabeth (Durand) Oren, also Pennsylvanians, but of German 
descent. The father was an honored "son of the soil" and he aud his wife spent 
their entire lives in Pennsylvania, being now survived by four of the eleven children 
born to them, of whom William H., the subject of this sketch, is the youngest. His 
early life was spent in Pottsville, Penn., in the public schools of which place he re- 
ceived his education, and when about fourteen years of age he began clerking in a 
grocery and dry goods house of that place, but received a very small compensation 
for his services. In 1870 Horace Greeley's advice seemed to him to be sound, and 
he turned his footsteps westward and soon found himself in Decatur, 111., where 
he followed the calling of a clerk for a few years. He next opened a general store 
at Latham, 111., which he conducted with fair success for about five years, but in 
1880 disposed of his stock to remove to South Bend, Ind., and here he soon after 
purchased the grocery and baker shop owned by J. C. Knoblock and began busi- 
ness under the firm name of Keasey & Oren, but it only continued thus for a short 
time when A. D. Baker purchased Mr. Keasey' s interest and business has since been 
successfully continued under the firm name of Oren & Baker. Their business has 
been conducted all this time at their present stand, 116 West Washington street, 
but is under the immediate management of Mr. Oren as Mr. Baker is vice-president 
of the South Bend Chilled Plow Company and manager of the same. Mr. Oren's 
knowledge of his chosen avocation is perfect, and with his abundant resources, in- 
fluential connections and superior organization, he would appear to be but entering 
on a career whose future contains promise of the most encouraging character. 
These gentlemen conduct a bakery in connection with their store which is also a 
paying business. These gentlemen are widely known and greatly esteemed, not 
alone within the lines of this important trade, but by a wide circle among the com- 
munity generally. Mr. Oren was married in 1874, Miss Sallie Baker, daughter 
of G. W. Baker, of Decatur, 111., becoming his wife and the mother of his five 
children: Maude, Arthur, Jessie, Kizzie and Jed. Mr. Oren is a member of the 
K. O. T. M. , the National Union and the Royal Arcanum. Politically he is a Re- 
publican. 

John N. Lederer, real estate and insurance agent. To no class of people is the 
prosperity of a city due more than to the real estate men. It is his energy and vim 
that induces capital to invest, and houses spring up under the magic wand of his 
power in inducing people to locate. South Bend is very much under obligations to 
this class of business men, and to none more than to Mr. Lederer, who was born in 
Bavaria, Germany, November 16, 1833, to Frederick and Barbara (Kunstman) 
Lederer, who were also native Germans, the father being a blacksmith aud wagon 
maker by trade. He and his wife died in their native laud, having become the par- 
ents of ten children, eight of whom are living. John N., was the fifth in order of 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 737 

birth and was reared in bis native land where he was also educated. After attend- 
ing the public schools he entered college at Wunsiedel, a Latin school, and later 
entered an institution at Hof, which was called The Gymnasium, graduating from the 
latter institution. In 1853, when in his twentieth year, he sailed for America, taking 
passage in a sailing vessel at Bremen, and landed at New York City after a voyage 
of thirty-seven days. From the American metropolis he came directly to South 
Bend, where he had acquaintances, and soon after his arrival, entered the employ 
of Harper & Deyo, who were engaged in milling. He at. first received a compensa- 
tion of S8 per month, and after remaining with this firm until the spring of 1854, he 
left the mill and began working on the Air Line Railroad. At the end of two weeks the 
contractor ran away and he and his fellow workmen were left without their money. 
He then made his way to La Porte and secured emploj'ment in the gravel pit at Hud- 
son Lake, where he labored faithfully for four months. He next secured a position 
as a clerk in a grocery in South Bend, which position he filled for six years, bis 
agreeable manners and willing sjiirit meeting with the unreserved approval of his 
employer. Following this he opened a meat market and butchering establishment 
on the ground where bis present buildings are, which business occupied his attention 
for twelve years. Bv this time he had accumulated considerable means, and in 1880 
he built the substantial brick building at 110 West Washington street. In ]87'2 he 
went to Europe and was absent one season, and immediately upon bis return opened 
a grocery store, in connection with John C. Knoblock, the tirm name being Knob- 
lock & Lederer. In 1876 be made the race for county treasurer and was defeated. 
The succeeding year be sold out bis interest in his grocery, and embarked in his 
present business, his long residence in this section making him thoroughly familiar 
with real estate values. He is the general agent for steamship lines, and represents 
a number of the best insurance companies. He is active and energetic, and has boe-ts 
of friends in business and social circles, and is well liked by all who know him, 
either in a business or social way. He is a whole-souled, genial friend and acquaint- 
ance, and one of the shrewdest business men of South Bend, whose judgment in real 
estate and insurance matters can be safely relied upon. He has held the position 
of school trustee four years, is the originator of the Turner's Society of this place, 
which was started in I860; is treasurer of the Northern Indiana Hedge Fence Com- 
pany, and socially is a member of the A. F. & A. M. In 1860 he was married to 
Miss Antoinette Bauer, who bore bim two children: Anna, now of St. Louis, Mo., 
and Hugo, who died of diphtheria in May 1864. His second marriage took place in 
1880, Miss Maggie Kunstman becoming bis wife and the mother of the following 
children: Herbert, Alma and Irma. Agnes is deceased. 

William W. Wilson. Among the active enterprises of the town of Bristol the 
livery business occupies, necessarily, an important place, and Mr. Wilson is actively 
engaged in this industry. In connection he also deals in buggies and carriages, 
and is one of the representative business men of the place. He was born in Chau- 
tauqua county, X. Y. , March 25, 1884, and is a son of Ashley and Loriuda (Graves) 
Wilson, the former a native of Whitehall, N. Y. , born 18U0, and the latter born in 
Cayuga county, N. Y. Ashley Wilson emigrated to La Porte county. Ind., in 1844, 
made his home there until 1856, and then went to Illinois, where he made his home 
for two years. From there he went to Michigan, and about the year 1861 came to 
Indiana, settling in Bristol, where his death occurred in 1872. His wife had passed 
away in La Porte county, Ind., in 1856. This estimable couple were the parents of 
the following children: Lyman (died in 1853), Ashley. Griffin. Lucius, William 
W., Mary J., Sarah A., Emma and Irene. AN'illiam W. Wilson was about ten years 
of age when he went with his parents to La Porte county, Ind. He received but a 
limited education on account of the scarcity of schools, and most of his time in youth 
was spent in assisting bis father to improve and develop the different farms on which 
he resided. At an early age be learned the trade of bricklayer, became very profi- 
cient, and later followed contracting and building for thirty years. He was very 



738 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

successful in this, and amassed a comfortable competence. On August 11, 1862, 
he enlisted at La Porte, Ind., in Company E, Fourth Indiana Cavalry and served 
three years, being mustered out at the expiration of the war at Macon, Ga., June 
29, 1865. He participated in the battles of Chickamauga, Bridgeport, Waldon's 
Ridge, Mouse Creek, David Ridge, Kenesaw, Nashville, Franklin and several others. 
He was in fourteen hard-fought battles during one month, and was wounded twice 
during service, both times in the left leg Ijelow the knee. Mr. Wilson chose his life 
companion in Miss Mary Mitchell, who died in March, 1863, leaving two children: 
Charles C. and Coda P. Mr. Wilson's second marriage was to Miss Mary Curtis, 
and one child was the result of this union, Harry C. In his political views Mr. 
Wilson affiliates with the Republican party. As a business man Mr. Wilson has 
met with well-deserved success, and has gained an enviable repiitation for business 
integrity and promptness. 

A. L. Hudson, druggist at 519 East Jefferson St., South Bend, Ind. The 
advancement and progress of a city displays itself nowhere more readily than in the 
elegance of its drug stores; and the establishment of which Mr. Hudson is the fortu- 
nate proprietor, is one of the most elegant and completely fitted up of any in the 
city. Mr. Hudson is a product of Dexter, Mich., where he was born December 28, 
1850, to Charles and Elizabeth (Phillips) Hudson, natives of Lockport, N. Y. Charles 
Hudson became a resident of Michigan when a boy and in that State grew to man- 
hood and married. He was a speculator, and being a man of exceptionally good 
judgment he accumulated a great deal of property, owning at the time of his death, 
which occurred in Marshall county Ind., in 1855, 1,400 acres of land in the " Hoo- 
sier State. He was cut down by the hand of death while in the very zenith of his 
career of prosperity — being only thirty-four years of age. His widow survived 
him until 1890, when she, too, passed away. She Ijore her husband iive children: 
Amelia, wife of William Alleman, who is president of the Argus (Indiana) National 
Bank; Alonzo L.; Charles; Lewis P.; and Louise, who died in Denver, Colo., of con- 
sumption. A. L. Hudson was but five years of age when his father died and he re- 
mained with his mother until he attained his majority. He obtained his early edu- 
cation in the public schools, and from early boyhood the calling of the druggist had 
a fascination for him, and this he determined should be his life work. In order to 
better prepare himself for this profession he entered Eastman Business College of 
Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and upon graduating from the same he entered a college of 
pharmacy at Chicago, which institution presented him with a diploma in 1871. He 
soon after purchased a half interest in a drug store at Argus, Ind. , but two years 
later sold out and went to Lincoln, Ind. , where he followed a like occupation for 
four years. lu the fall of 1882 he came to South Bend, at once opened a finely 
stocked drug store to the public and has conducted a safe and very remunerative 
business ever since. The whole interior appointments of this establishment reflects 
the greatest possible credit upon the good taste of the proprietor, and a full and pure 
line of drugs and chemicals are constantly kept in stock, as well as a great variety 
of toilet articles, perfumes, soaps, sickroom-supplies, surgical appliances, fancy goods, 
cigars, and, in fact, everything that is to be found in a drug store of high order. 
Miss Narcissa Booker became his wife in 1872, and to them two children were born: 
Nellie L. and Edwin A. His second union was celebrated in 1881 and has resulted 
in the birth of one child, Claude E. His wife was formerly Miss Emma Hartpence. 

De. Warren H. Thomas, one of the prominent physicians of northern Indiana, a 
representative of one of the oldest and best knovvn families of Elkhart county as well 
as one of its leading citizens, was born at Goshen, Ind., April 28, 1841. The his- 
tory of the Thomas family is inseparably connected with the early history of Elkhart 
county, and is given in full in the biography of the Doctor's brother, William A. 
Thomas, who is now residing in Goshen. Dr. Thomas received his early scholastic 
training in the public schools of his native town, and later he attended the Dickinson 
Institute at Romeo, Mich. Having decided upon the practice of medicine as his 



MEMOIRS OF IX DIANA. 739 

vocatiou in life, he became a student of Dr. W. A. Whippy, at Goshen. For a time 
he was engaged in the practice of his profession at Monticello, this State, l)ut the 
greater part of his career as a physician, has been passed in Elkhart, Iiid., where he 
is best known. Besides being a graduate of the Hahnemann Medical College of 
Chicago, 111., Dr. Thomas has never ceased being a student of pathology. It is 
his aim to keep abreast of his profession, and that he has done this, his large and 
select practice is evidence of the most pronounced character. Aside from this, the 
Doctor is an extended reader of current literature. He has held high positions 
among the Masons, is a Knight Templar, was once president of the Indiana Insti- 
tute of Homoeopathy, has filled every office in the Board of Education, and is now 
serving his second term. He was for several years president of the Elkhart Lecture 
Association, and was a member of the committee of that association for several years 
beside. He is one of the board of managers of the Century Club, one of the most 
noteworthy institutions of the city, and has always been among the men whose en- 
ergy, enterprise and public spirit are foremost in public undertakings. To his mar- 
riage, solemnized January 2, 1867, with Miss Emma Hill, a daughter of Daniel Hill, 
of Elkhart, two children have been born: Royal and George A. The first named is 
dead; the latter is a graduate of pharmacy, and is one of the principal druggists of 
Elkhart. A portrait of Dr. Thomas appropriately graces the pages of this volume. 

AsDREW J. Menges. Agricultural pursuits have formed the chief occupation of 
this gentleman, and the wide awake manner in which he has taken advantage of 
every method and idea tending to the enhanced value of his property, has had con- 
siderable to do with his success iu life. Born in Union (now Snyder) county, Penn., 
September 5, 1846, he is a son of Elias R. and Henrietta (Zeigler) Menges. 
Elias R. Menges was born near Freeburg, Union Co., Penn., June 16, 1816, and his 
parents, John Jacob and Catherine (Roush) Menges, were natives of the Keystone 
State also, the father born in Lebanon and the mother in Northumberland (after- 
ward Union, now Snyder) county. When seventy-two years of age, John Jacob 
Menges died on the farm where he had resided since 1822, and there his wife passed 
away when in her seventy-ninth year. Elias R. was reared on this farm, and was 
educated in the old-fashioned subscription schools of that day, principally in the 
German language. In 1843 he was largely instrumental in having the common- 
school system adopted in his township, and always manifested much interest in edu- 
cational matters. He was secretary of the school board for six years, and held other 
positions. In 1843 he was commissioned by the governor of Pennsylvania as ad- 
jutant of the First Battalion, First Division, of State militia, in which capacity he 
served for seven years. In the fall of 1855 he was elected associate judge of the 
Common Pleas Court, served two terms, and was one of the prominent men of his 
section. Previous to this, on June 16, 1842, he married Miss Henrietta Zeigler, 
and six children were the fruits of this union: Mary C. Andrew J.. John J., Amelia 
M., Martin L. and Anna M. Mr. Menges sold the farm on which he had been 
reared, and in 1864 emigrated to Indiana, locating on Section 28, Washington 
township, Elkhart county, on March 27 of that year. He first purchased sixty-seven 
acres of land, but in the spring of 1865 he purchased 157 additional acres, the main 
part of which was in the same section, on the Bristol and Elkhart roads. He was a 
liberal and upright citizen, and one whose career was above reproach. His death 
occurred on May 29, 1892, but his widow survives him and resides on the old home- 
stead. Andrew J. Menges was seventeen years of age when he came with his parents 
to Elkhart county. On February 13, 1873, he was married to Miss Sarah Heintzle- 
man, a native of Snyder county, Penn., born February 15, 1845, and the daughter 
of David and Catherine (Myer) Heintzleman, natives of Pennsylvania. Both parents 
died when Sarah was an infant. To Mr. and Mrs. Menges were born the following 
children: Rhinehold E., born January 12, 1874; Lotta M., born January 28, 1877; 
Eva J., born September 6, 1879; Clement A., born November 23, 1881; Howard H., 
born October 12, 1884; Mary C, born November 14, 1887; and Edna Mabel, born 



740 PICTORIAL AJVD BIOGRAPHICAL 

JaQuary 10, 1890. Mr. Menges owns 104 J acres of land, most of wbich is improved, 
and is eugaged principally in raising wheat and grass. However, he gives consid- 
erable attention to the raising of sheep, and is doing well ia this industry. He 
has a pleasant, rural home, good out-buildings, etc., and is prosperous and con- 
tented. Socially he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and politically he is a 
Democrat. 

Alfred B. Miller (deceased) was born in South Bend, lud. . Februarj' 6, 1840, a 
few years prior to which event his parents, Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Miller, came here from 
West Chester, Penn., dying in this city April 17, 1888, and September 19, 1885, 
respectively. The father was a practical printer and journalist all his life, and 
young Alf got his taste and inspiration for that calling by coming iu contact with the 
old Free Press and Register offices, where his father worked at the ease. He was a 
serious, studious and industrious lad, and though the most of his spare time was 
given to some useful occupation, he was companionable and even dispositioned. 
He attended the best schools which the town afforded and wound up his literary 
education iu the old seminary of South Bend. He still continued to pursue the 
paths of learning of his own accord, and the best books obtainable in thefield of art. 
literature and science were explored by him, and he became one of the best informed 
men in the county on all subjects, for he read for a purpose. Even in his youth he 
showed a genius for invention and construction, and instead of wasting his time on 
the playground he would hurry home from school and work in his little shop in his 
father's barn, where he constructed engines, wagons, sleighs and the like. He 
made complete, while a boy, the first swell box sleigh that appeared in this county, 
and the cutter is still doing service in Mishawaka, for it was substantial in con- 
struction and well proportioned. In after life he could make almost anything that 
he turned his hand to. Before attaining his majority, he entered the store of John 
VV. Chess, and was a salesman there when the Civil war opened. He enlisted in the 
Twenty-first Indiana Battery August 14, 1862, and was discharged June 26, 1865. 
He served as second lieutenant of the battery and its quartermaster. He was at 
Chickamauga. Mission Ridge, and many other noted engagements of the Army of 
the Cumberland, and was mustered out at Nashville. His record was that of a brave 
and loyal soldier, and those who fought in their country's defense had no better 
friend in after years. Upon returning home he entered the store of Hon. John 
Brownfield, and from that exemplary man and model merchant he took his pattern in 
business matters. Mr. Miller's ambition was to be an editor, and he worked hard 
to reach this goal. He studied late at night and wrote a great deal in the shape of 
short stories and poems for Harper' s Monthly, Frank Leslie' s Illustrated Newsjxipei; 
the Home Journal, and other periodicals. He also wrote for the local press. 
During the war he acted as correspondent for several papers, and his letters are 
thrilling and interesting. The late Vice-President Colfax, who was Mr. Miller's 
first Sunday school teacher, took a great interest in the talented boy, and on everv 
occasion possible sought to help him along iu his ambitions. This close friendship 
was only broken by the statesman's death. In 1869 Mr. Miller and his brother-in- 
law, Elmer Crockett, bought a half interest in the St. Joi^eph Valley Register, the 
paper founded by Mr. Colfax, and he assumed the editorship. In 1872 the two sold 
their interest in this journal and formed a corporation which eventually became the 
Tribune Printing Company, with Messrs. J. H. Banning and E. W. Hoover as the 
other members. The result of this movement was the starting of the South Bend 
Weekly 'Tribune, the first issue of which appeared March 9, 1872, with Alf B. 
Miller's name at the head as editor. Great public interest was manifested in this 
enterprise and the venture was a success from the start. In less than a year the 
paper had a subscription list of over three thousand, and its influence was felt far 
and near. Mr. Miller's ability as a writer and newspaper manager was shown in 
every department of the paper. He gave it his sole attention and worked early and 
late with wonderful energy to achieve the great success attained. His policy was as 




Gov. IRA I CHASE. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 743 

follows in bis introductory: " Oiir aim is to make itthebest family journal possible, 
a wide awake and reliable newspaper; earnestly devoted to the great principles ujaon 
which the Republican party was founded, but independent in utterance and impar- 
tial in criticism." During the twenty years that he conducted the paper there was 
no deviation from this rule. In May following the establishment of the paper, at 
the earnest solicitation of Mr. Colfax and other leading citizens, the South Bend 
Daily Tribune was established, which afforded Mr. Miller another opportunity to 
develop his journalistic talents. For many years he did the editorial work of the 
two papers, often working far into the night each day, to meet the demands of its 
columns, and keep up the interesting departments he had inaugurated when the 
papers were started. He was never found wanting, and never failed to get his paper 
out on time and have something in it that would attract and interest the reader. 
The Tribune was first started in the third story of the brick building 127 West 
Washington Street, but as the business grew the entire building was occupied, and 
the Tribune store, now the leading establishment of the kind in the State, was begun. 
Aside from his editorial duties, Mr. Miller found time to devote considerable atten- 
tion (and continued this to the day he laid aside his earthly labors) to advance the 
interests of this establishment. Messrs. Hoover and Banning eventually retired from 
the company and their places were taken by J. M. Deffenbaugh and R. S. Tarbell, 
brothers in-law, and later, his son, Fred A. Miller, became a member of it. After 
making one or two changes the store was moved to its present quarters on North 
Main and Centre streets. Although Mr. Miller made his foremost success as a 
general newspaper man, he had also business qualifications of a high order. He was 
a shrewd politician, and his advice was sought by the leaders of the party in the 
State and nation, and when followed was generally found to be correct. He was an 
aggressive political writer and believed in attack instead of remaining behind the 
breastworks fighting. It was not in him to confine himself to one particular branch 
of his work, for he was very versatile and full of resources, and some of his poems 
will take rank among the literary gems of the age. He was progressive, always 
looking for new ideas, and himself originated many. He could write with equal 
rapidity and ease a double-column advertisement for a business that he knew littl& 
about, a local item of a runaway team, a poem, an obituary of some leading citizen, 
an editorial on the tariff, or a Christmas story. He could also write best under pres- 
sure, when crowded for time and plenty of confusion going on about his desk. It 
was his idea that an editorial room should be in the most conspicuous part of a 
newspaper establishment, where the people could see and get at the editor with ease. 
No amount of interruption ever confused him in his work. He loved to meet the 
farmers of the county as they came in for their weekly papers, and always had a 
cheery word with them. He probably knew more of the personal history of the resi- 
dents of this county than any other man in it, and this was particularly valuable to 
him when it came to writing obituaries of old citizens or of events of olden days. 
He took great pride in his native town, and used every means at his command to 
further its interests, and was often foremost in furthering measures that were 
adopted and proved of great value. He at one time wrote an article in the Tribune 
advocating the establishment of a savings bank which so much impressed Mr. T. J. 
Sexias that he at once went to work, and the result is the St. Joseph County Savings 
Bank of to-day, one of the leading institutions of the State. Scores of other inci- 
dents might be related. Mr. Miller was suave and polite in manner, modest, unsel- 
fish, careful of the feelings of others, a fine conversationalist, approachable at all 
times, very neat in his personal appearance, a particular friend to young journalists, 
generous to a fault, and exceptioaally charitable. Himself a tireless worker, he had 
no patience with an idler and could not bear to see talents going to waste. His 
beautiful home on South Michigan street is a monument to his energy and taste, 
and there he spent a great deal of his time in remodeling his own house, to preserve 
that of his parents, the place where he was born and where they died. His death. 

43 



744 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

was a source of universal sorrow, and South Bend lost a true and devoted friend. 
He leaves a wife, formerh' Esther A. Tarbell, and one son, Frederick A. Miller, who 
is wedded to Miss Flora Dunn, resides on the old home, and who was his father's 
assistant in the management of the paper during the last two years of the latter' s 
life. He left two sisters: Mrs. Elmer Crockett and Mrs. J. M. Deffenbaugh. A 
brother, Robert B. Miller, died in San Francisco in 1880. Mr. Miller belonged to 
several secret orders of the city, the Odd Fellows, Royal Arcanum, Knights of 
Pythias, National Union, Knights of Maccabees, and Auten Post, G. A. R. In 
accordance with his oft-expressed wish the post had charge of his funeral. He died 
December 10, 1892. His busy brain has ceased its workings, his pen has been laid 
aside forever, but he left his impress upon the affairs of the county, and his noble 
work will live for many years. 

George Ross Nicholson. Among the very earliest settlers of Elkhart countj' are 
the Nicholsons, the pioneer of this family being James Nicholson, a farmer, who 
emigrated from Champaign county, Ohio, to Indiana in 1828, and brought with him 
his wife and six children, as follows: David T., William, Mary A., Sophronia, Sarah 
J. and Elizabeth. He left behind two sons, Vance and George, who followed them 
in 1829. Mr. Nicholson settled on the farm now owned by William Palm, and a 
part of this is now within the corporate limits of Bristol. The country at that time 
was an almost unbroken forest, Indians were more plentiful than whites, and wild 
animals were far more plentiful than those of a domestic order. Mr. Nicholson 
erected a log cabin, in which he moved his few household goods, and thus equipped 
began clearing, grubbing, planting, hoeing and pursuing the usual occupations of 
the pioneer settlers. Here the children were reared, the boys to clear and grub and 
helji the father, the girls to spin and weave and assist the mother in her household 
duties. At first schools and churches were unknown, but with the advent of other 
pioneers, little communities or settlements would be established and then the log 
achool-house, puncheon iloors and benches, greased paper for window lights and the 
master with his never-to-be-forgotten rod, made their appearance. The three "R's" 
were sufficient then for graduation. The primitive log church, with the circuit 
rider, came about this time. Before this both school and church meetings were held 
in the houses of these pioneers, who deemed education was enlightenment and 
church-going a necessary means for salvation. All these scenes have long since 
faded from view, and rarely is seen the actor who took a part in the drama of those 
times. James Nicholson lived but a few years after coming to this county, but 
those of the old settlers yet living recall him. His descendants are numerous, how- 
ever, and the name is not only common in Elkhart county, but in manj' other localities 
of the Union. One of his sons, George Nicholson, married for his first wife Mary 
Bassett, who bore him two children: Mary J. and Sarah A. After her death he 
married Eliza J. Chess, who bore him eight children: Lydia E., Sophronia I., 
Finley C, Rose A., Olive A., Ross G., Emma A. and Eva E. The occupation of 
the family, generally speaking, has been farming. George Nicholson was no excep- 
tion to this rule. During the Sauk Indian war he raised a company and got as far 
as Chicago when the trouble ceased and the company returned and disbanded. 
There was nothing eventful in his life, but that he was a hard-working, industrious, 
honest and law-abiding citizen was known to all. Both he and wife held member- 
ship in the Baptist Church. He died on June 5, 1862, followed by his widow April 
15, ]87r). Of the two children born to his first marriage both are living and mar- 
ried. Of the eight Ijorn to the second union two, Lydia and Olive, are deceased. 
Finley C. Nicholson was born on the home place near Bristol, September 6, 1844, 
and was reared there to manhood, receiving only a common-school education. He 
continued on the home place until twenty-seven years of age, when he began clerk- 
ing in Bristol. From the means he had acquired on the farm, and after he had 
schooled himself in merchandising, he became the Co. of Cass & Co., general 
merchants at Bristol. After about seven years Mr. Nicholson sold his interest to his 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 745 

partner, and formed a partnership with his cousin, Robert Chess, in a similar enter- 
prise. This partnership continued five years and since that time Mr. Nicholson has 
been engaged in merchandising at Bristol alone. He has been reasonably success- 
ful in life and is considered one of the well-to-do men of the place. Perhaps there 
is no man better known at Bristol than he, because of the active interest he takes in 
furthering the town's interest. In this respect he is untiring. He has contributed 
from his means, so far as able, in the support of churches, schools, the upbuilding 
of the place and all laudable public enterprises. The chief event of his life occurred 
June 6, 1877, at which time Miss Emma Richards, of Akron, Ohio, became his wife. 
Five children have been born to this union: Charles R., Earl V., Tutu O., George 
William and Rose. Mr. Nicholson and wife are members of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church. Mr. Nicholson has been a Democrat in politics, but is strongly settled 
in his views as regards the temperance question, being practically a Prohibitionist. 
He was, perhaps, the first Democrat ever elected to the office of trustee of Washing- 
ton township, and under President Cleveland's administration was the postmaster at 
Bristol. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. George Ross Nicholson, sub- 
ject of his sketch, was born on the homestead January 4, 1852, and was nine years 
of age when his father died. His brother, Finley C. Nicholson, being the eldest 
child, took charge of the farm, and our subject remained on the same until April, 
1880, when he purchased the meat market in Bristol owned by V. J. Virgil. Since 
that time he has carried on the business successfully, and although during a portion 
of the time he has had partners, for the most part he has been alone. He was mar- 
ried in Jefferson township, this county, April 30, 1885, to Miss Anna Hanan, who 
was born May 28, 1864, and who was the daughter of John B. and Mary A. 
(Rychen) Hanan. John B. Hanan was born in Prussia, Germany, August 2, 1817, 
and his parents, John and Lucy Hanan, were natives of the Fatherland, where they 
passed their entire lives. They were well-to-do and very respectable people. John 
B. Hanan sailed for America August 2, 1846, and settled in Blecker, Fulton Co. 
N. Y. His wife was born October 23, 1831, and came to America with her parents 
when an infant. They settled at Blecker, Fulton Co., N. Y. , and there Mrs. Nich- 
olson's girlhood days were passed. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hanan: 
John H., born March 24, 1850, married Miss May E. Brown, of Attica, N. Y. , and 
has been traveling salesman for more than twenty years; Kate, born July 17, 
1852, in New York, married Lewis Immell; Josephine, born December 13, 1854, 
married Henry G. Juilliard, of New Paris, Ind. ; and Libbie, born October 30, 1860, 
married Ross B. Free, and resides in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In March, 1863, Mr. 
and Mrs. Hanan emigrated to Indiana and settled in Jeffer.son township, Elkhart 
county, where they resided until the death of Mr. Hanan, August — , 1891. He was 
a great sufferer during the two j'ears prior to his death. While a resident of Jeffer- 
son township Mr. Hanan's principal attention was given to the culture of fruit. 
After his death his widow found a comfortable home with her daughter, Mrs. G. 
Ross Nicholson, until her death, which occurred on December 23, 1891. She was 
a noble woman, a most affectionate wife and mother and a very devout Christian. 
She and her husband were members of the German Baptist Church. To. Mr. and 
Mrs. Nicholson were given three interesting children: Berta C. , born Septem- 
ber 15, 1886; Finley B., born August 15, 1888; and Herbert B., born October 30, 
1890. Mr. Nicholson is a successful business man, and in addition to his meat 
market is engaged in various other enterprises, purchasing wool and buying and 
shipping stock, besides carrying on a wholesale trade in meat at Elkhart. Aside 
from his residence and business property in Bristol, he has a farm of eighty acres in 
Jefferson township, forty acres of which are devoted to fruit culture and the balance 
in timber land. In his political views Mr. Nicholson is a strong Prohibitionist. 
Mrs. Nicholson is a member of the Methodist Church, and both are highly esteemed 
citizens. 

Dr. W. a. Wickham is an exceptionally popular and successful physician and 



746 PICTORIAL AND BlOOliAPIUCAL 

surgeon, whose office is located at No. 101 South Michigaa Street, his residence 
being at the Oliver House. He is scholarly and well informed in every branch of 
his profession, is intelligent and well posted on all matters of public interest, and 
stands well in the community, both as a citizen and a professional man. He was 
born in Goshen, Ind., February 28, 1860, a son of Dr. William W. and Mary (Riley) 
Wickham, who were born in the State of New York and Canada respectively, the 
former of whom received an honorary degree from St. Loms Medical School. He 
settled in Goshen, Ind., about 1845, where he practiced for a number of years and 
was exceptionally successful as a follower of the '"healing art." He is now a resi- 
dent of Indianapolis, and is retired from active life. To himself and wife five 
children were born: Josie B., Nettie, Minnie E., Dr. William A. and Madge B. K. 
Dr. William A. Wickham is the only son of his father's house, and in the pnljlic 
schools of his native town was educated, and upon leaving the high school in 1878, 
entered the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, and there pursued his medical 
studies and researches with remarkable success until 1880, when he was graduated 
as a full-fiedged M. D. In May of the following year he hung out his shingle in 
South Bend, but did not have long to wait for patients, and soon had gathered 
about him a paying patronage, which has so increased in size that his time is occu- 
pied almost day and night. He is highly respected and esteemed by his medical 
brethren, and is a worthy member of the St. Joseph County Medical Society, the 
State Medical Society and the American Medical Society. He was the efficient sec- 
retary of the County Society in 1889, and was president of the same in 1890. 
Although the Doctor is still young in years, he has built up a reputation for skill 
and efficiency for which many an older physician might envy him. Not only is he 
popular in the professional circles of the city, but is also highly regarded in the 
social circles. He is unmarried. 

Isaac S. Good is a son of Christian and Sarah (Shrock) Good, who were early pio- 
neers of Elkhart county, Ind. , but who are now both dead. The first members of 
this family to locate in America were Jacob and Christian Good, who came from Ger- 
many in 1737, and settled on Muddy Creek, Brecknock township, in Lancaster 
county, Penn., where Jacob became the owner of 600 acres of land, which his two 
sons, Peter and Jacob, assisted him in tilling, to each of whom he gave 300 acres. 
Peter became the father of sis children and moved to Cumberland county, and Jacob 
became the father of eleven children, six by his first wife and five by a second. 
With his last wife he moved to Virginia, and one of his sons, Abram, was an elder, 
and Daniel became a preacher of the Mennonite Church. The other pioneer settler 
son. Christian, purchased a tract of land one half mile east of his brother Jacob, and 
built a grist-mill on Muddy Creek, which was the first of the kind erected in that 
part of the country. He became the father of seventeen children, sis sons and eleven 
daughters, and one of his sons. Christian, became the father of one son and six 
daughters. This son's name was Christian, and he was married twice, his first wife 
bearing him two sons and one daughter: David, Daniel and Elizabeth, and his sec- 
ond wife three: Joseph, Esther and Susanna. David, the eldest of his children, 
married and reared four sons: Isaac, Christian, Martin and John. Daniel and Elizabeth 
died unmarried; Joseph died, leaving one child, who also died later; Esther married 
Rev. Samuel Good, and had five children: John, Christian, Maria, Barbara and 
Catherine; and Susanna, who married Gideon Weaver and became the mother of six 
children: Aaron, Christian. David. Daniel, Martin and Nancy. David Good was the 
grandfather of the subject of this sketch, and his eldest son, Isaac, became the father 

of eleven children: M , Rudolph, David, John, Isaac, Susan, Veronica, Elizabeth. 

Hannah, Anna and Mary. Christian, the second child of David, had four sons and 
two daughters by his first wife, and one son by his second wife: Gideon, Isaac S., 
David, Eli, Martin, Anna and Susan. Gideon, Anna, David and Martin died in 
infancy. Martin, the third child of David Good, had four sons and five daughters 
by his first wife, and a daughter by his second wife: Daniel, Joseph, Aaron, Eliab, 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 747 

Mar}', Lucy, Leah, Fauuie, Elizabeth and Ida. John, the youngest son of David, 
also has ten children: Ezra, Amos, Isaiah, Solomon, Daniel, David, John (who died 
young), Lydia, Leah and Mary. Christian Good, the second child of David, was 
born in Canada, October 5, 1S34, and died February 15, 1887, aged fifty-two years 
four months and ten days. His mother was Susanna Bowman, and with her and his 
father he came to Elkhart county, Ind., in 1855, and resided on a farm in Harrison 
township until the death of the father, David, in 1865, aged fifty-four. He was a 
member of the Mennonite Church, and was a good, upright and law-abiding citizen. 
His wife died at the home of her son, Christian (where Isaac S. Good is now living), 
in 1884, aged eighty-four, having been an earnest Christian throughout life. Chris- 
tian was married in Canada to Miss Sarah Shrock, February 8, 1857, a daughter of 
Eli and Magdaleua Shrock, the former of whom died in Canada and the latter at the 
home of her daughter, Mary Berkey, in St. Joseph county. Mrs. Good was born in 
Canada, April 3, 1837, and was called from life September 25, 1866, at the untimely 
age of twenty-nine years, five months and twenty-two days. She came to this county 
with her husband, married in Canada, and became the mother of six children, three 
of whom are living: Susanna, wife of Jacob Searer, of Olive township, was born 
January 4, 1860; Isaac S. ; and Eli, who is living in Kent county, Mich., engaged in 
teaching school, was born September 22, 1866. Christian and Sarah Good made 
their home on the farm where David Good first settled, and there they succeeded in 
accumulating a considerable amount of worldly goods. Mr. Good was a minister of 
the River Brethren Church, and in every respect was an estimable citizen. He took 
for his second wife Mary (Stauffer) Sensenich, widow, born February 17, 1828, mar- 
ried August 11, 1867, and who is the mother of Dr. Sensenich, of Wakarusa, with 
whom she is now living. Isaac S. Good was born February 19, 1862, obtained his 
education in the district schools, was reared to a farm life, and in 1888 took charge 
of the home farm. December 23, 1883, he was married to Fannie Musser, daughter 
of Joseph Musser. She was born September 13, 1866. Mr. Good has successfully 
followed farming and carpentering, and is the owner of a good farm, which he tills 
with judgment and in a successful manner. Mr. Good is public spirited, has been 
a Republican in politics, and he and his wife are members of the Mennouite Church. 
Thev have two children: Elsie Ursula, born July 25, 1886. and Christian Millo, born 
June 6, 1890. 

John N. Jdday is not only a veteran of the Civil war, but is also a member of one 
of the pioneer families of Elkhart county, lud. (See history of the Juday family 
in the sketch of John S. Juday. ) John Juday, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in Greenbrier, Va. , was a Republican in politics and during the 
long-continued and bloody strife between the North and South his sympathies 
■were strongly with the IJnion, in which stmggle two of his sons participated: 
John N. and Adam, who participated iu many battles, the latter being twice wounded 
and was at one time taken prisoner in Virginia. He was killed at the battle of the 
Wilderness. John N. Juday was born on his father's farm in Benton township, 
this county, March 31, 1840, received a limited common-school education, but when 
quite young was well posted in the details of farming. His patriotism caused him, 
on the 2d of January, 1862, to enlist at Goshen, Ind., in Company G, Forty-eighth 
Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he served about three years and 
seven months. He was in the engagements at luka, Corinth, Vicksburg, Jackson, 
Champion's Hill, Mission Ridge, also a sharp skirmish between Vicksburg 
and Jackson. Columbia, S. C, Beutonville, and various skirmishes through- 
out the South. He was neither wounded nor taken prisoner, but was sick 
in the hospital at Vicksburg for three months, and at Farmington one month. 
He was a useful soldier, served his country faithfully, faced rebel bullets on many 
a hard-fought battlefield, and was honorably discharged at Huntsville, Ala., by 
reason of re-enlisting as a veteran volunteer, which he did on the same day and in 
the same company and regiment, and was again honorably discharged July 15, 1865, 



748 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

at Louisville, Ky. , after the war had closed. He at once returned home and took 
upon his shoulders the duties of farming, which he has discharged in a very 
satisfactory manner. He was married on the 1st of March, 1866, to Miss Amy 
Darr, at the residence of the bride's parents in Benton township. The father, Peter 
Darr, was of Dutch descent, a native of Maryland, from which State he removed to 
Preble county, Ohio, when a young man, and was there united in marriage to Miss 
Sarah Ott, by whom he became the father of twelve children: John, Eliza, Jesse, 
Elizabeth, Milton, Mary, George, Amy, Thomas, Daniel, William and Sarah. Mr. 
Darr was one of the first settlers of Benton township, cleared a good farm from 
the woods and became a respected and law-abiding citizen. He lived to the age of 
seventy-one years, and he and his wife were members of the United Brethren Church. 
He was a strong supporter of the Union cause during the Civil war and always cast 
his vote for Kepublican nominees. One of his sons served in an Indiana regiment 
during the war, but during his service died in a hospital at Nashville, Tenn. After 
his marriage John N. Juday tilled a farm in Benton township for three years, after 
which he spent the same length of time in Noble county, Ind., at the end of which 
time he moved to Marshall county, Ind., and purchased eighty acres of heavily 
wooded timber land, which by dint of hard work he cleared and which he sold in 
1882. He then sold his farm and bought land in Section 29, Benton township, on 
which he made his home until the winter of 1892, when he became the owner of his 
present farm, consisting of eighty acres. To himself and wife four children have 
been born: Mary (who died at the age of twenty one years), Amanda, Logan E. and 
Sarah J. Mr. and Mrs. Juday have been united with the United Brethren Church 
for many years, and in politics he is a stanch Republican. The public-school system 
finds in him a warm supporter and has always given his children as good advantages 
as it was in his power to do. He has reared his children to honorable maturity 
and his record as a citizen and a soldier has ever been of the best. His daughter, 
Mary A., married Robert Reppey and died at the age of twenty-one years, leaving a 
child; Amanda S. married Willis Blue, a farmer of Benton township, and has two 
children; Logan E., was married to Miss Edith Rookstool, October 29, 1892; Sarah 
J. is at home. Mr. Juday is a member of the G. A. R. Lake View Post, 246, of 
Syracuse, Ind. 

Joseph Ummel, who was called from life April 18, 1883, was one of the early 
pioneers of this section, having come here in 1854 and settling on the farm on 
which his widow is now residing in Harrison township. He was born in Lebanon 
county, Penn., November 1, 1812, a son of John and Magdalene (Nafzer) Ummel, 
who were also native Pennsylvanians of Swiss descent. Joseph first removed from 
his native State to Ohio with his parents, and in that State the father was called 
from life, the mother's death occurring after her removal to Elkhart county, Ind., at 
the age of seventy-eight years. She bore her husband seven children, of whom 
Joseph was the only son, the sisters being Lydia, wife of William ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of Emanuel Nicewinter; Mary, wife of Henry Delcamp, a resident of Elk- 
hart county, Ind.; Anna, the wife of Martin Musser, and two infant daughters. 
Joseph Ummel was unmarried upon his arrival in Elkhart county. He at once pur- 
chased 350 acres of land, a portion of which was improved, and he at once set him- 
self to work to clear it and get it in good condition for farming. His efforts were 
rewarded, and at the time of his death he left an estate valued at §25,000, the result 
of honest toil and persistent endeavor. He was for many years an active member 
and supporter of the Mennonite Church, was a Republican politically, and to all 
intents and purposes he was public-spirited and law-abiding, in fact was a model 
citizen. He was united in marriage to Miss Susanna Coughman, who was born in 
Dayton, Ohio, March 13, 1829, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Brumbaugh) 
Coughman with whom she came to Elkhart county, Ind. , in 1836, and settled in Har- 
rison township, where she afterward met and married Mr. Ummel. Her father an 
mother both died in that township, of which they had been valuable pioneer set- 



MEMOIHS OF INDIANA. 749 

tiers. Their family consisted of seven children: "William, Susanna, Christina, 
Mary, Eve, Sarah and Katie; Marj' deceased iu youth; Christina is the wife of 

Joseph Culp; Eve is Mrs. Israel Immel; Sarah, wife of Elias G deceased; and 

Katie, wife of Abraham Ault also deceased. Mrs. Ummel has been a resident of 
Harrison township since a child, and she is now residing on the farm which she 
assisted her husband in improving. She is sixty-three years of age, has long been 
connected with the Mennouite Church, and is a woman whose worth is acknowledged 
by all who know her. She is the mother of three children: John, born November 
24, 1862, is unmarried, is the owner of eighty acres, is a public-spirited citizen and 
is a Republican politically. He is engaged in raising fruit and vegetables, which ia 
a new enterprise in this section of the country, and has proven a success. This de- 
parture has proven him to be a young man of enterprising and original views, and 
he deserves the prosperity which has attended his efforts. The next child born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Ummel is Mary E., who was born October 26, 1864, and is the wife of 
Noah F. Simmons, and the youngest member of the family is Delilah, who was born 
April 21, 1869, who had fitted herself for a teacher, but on her father's death she 
remained at home with her mother. John Ummel, the son of Joseph Ummel, was 
brought up to the life of a farmer, and his education was acquired in the district 
schools near his home, which he afterward completed in a business college. For 
some time he was in the planing-mill business in Elkhart with E. B. Gulp, in which 
business he proved proficient, and in every enterprise to which he has devoted his 
attention he has met with success. He takes an honest pride in the good old ances- 
try from which he sprung, which he traces back to the revolutionary times of this 
country. 

Uncle Nathaniel Newell. Over eighty years have passed over the head of the 
venerable man who is the subject of this sketch, leaving their impress in the whiten- 
ing hair and lined features, but while the outward garments of the soul show the 
wear and tear of years the man himself is richer and nobler and grander for the 
experience that each successive decade has brought him. He is one of the old set- 
tlers of Elkhart county, and has a comfortable and attractive home within its bor- 
ders. Honorable and upright in every walk of life, his long career has been with- 
out a blemish or blot to mar its whiteness. Mr. Newell was born in Chittenden 
county, near the town of Charlotte, Vt., January 2, 1809, and is of English origin. 
The resourcefulness of the native New Englander is proverbial. Set him down 
where you will and if he does not begin bettering his condition without any unnec- 
essary delay he will be doing violence to the history and traditions of his people 
and will be no more worthy to be called a eon of New England. Certain it is that 
no portion of the United States has ever sent into the vast agricultural regions and 
the great commercial centers of the West men whose industrial training seemed 
to be so thorough and complete as that of the men who had the good fortune to be 
born in New England or to be descended from New England stock. Certain it is, 
also, that however humble their station in life they had a knowledge and compre- 
hension of the science of economics peculiar to themselves. They knew the value 
of money and were masters of the art of multiplying their dollars. They knew 
how to be frugal without being miserly and could be hospitable and generous with- 
out being wasteful and extravagant. To this class of pioneers Mr. Newell belongs. 
His parents, Abel and Polly (Hollerbert) Newell, were natives of Connecticut and 
their ancestors early settlers of the New England States. The father of our sub- 
ject was a farmer by occupation and a soldier in the War of 1812. He died in 
Vermont. He met with success in his calling and was a man imiversally respected. 
To his marriage were born four sons and five daughters, Nathaniel Newell being 
third in order of birth. From an early age he was trained to the arduous duties 
of the farm in Vermont, and as a consequence his scholastic training received very 
little attention. During the winter season he was obliged to draw logs and while 
still quite young had to drive four yoke of oxen hitched to a sled. He would start 



750 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

out early in the morning and be gone until 9 or 10 o'clock at night. Making up 
his mind to enter Government land, young Newell married Mis-s Lucinda Johnson, 
a relative of Col. R. M. Johnson, and in 1835 he loaded all his effects into a wagon 
and started toward the setting sun. He got as far as Maumee Swamp, when he got 
stuck and called on an old lady living in the neighborhood for help. He hitched 
four yoke of oxen to the wagon and after five days crossed the swamp, a distance 
of thirty miles. He came onto Adamsville, Mich., stopped for a short time, and then 
came down to what is now Osolo township, Elkhart county, where he bought 100 
acres of land adjoining his present place. Eight acres of this were improved and 
a comfortalile one-room log house was on this place. Into this he brought his 
young wife and immediately entered upon his career as a pioneer. However, he 
did not live here very long before misfortune overtook him, death claiming his 
young and beautiful wife. He was the father of two children by this union, one 
now living, George. This left Uncle Nat alone, but he went to work with a strong 
mind and ready hands to provide for the little family left to care for. At that 
time there were but five white families in the township, but the Indians were to be 
found in numbers, and they often supplied our subject with venison, etc., and often 
worked for him. His nearest postofKce was Adamsville, but shortly after settling 
here A. O. Bugby opened a postoffice in the township. Mr. Newell soon bought 
another quarter-section of land, for which he paid S8 per acre, with no improve- 
ments. He is now the owner of 700 acres of land, 500 acres without a stump, and 
although he went into debt for his land he has long since paid that off and is 
to-day one of the most independent farmers of his section. He was married the 
second time in 18 — to Miss Mary Ales, by whom he has one child living, Matt. 
Although well along in years, time has dealt leniently with Uncle Nat, and although 
■eighty-two years of age he is still able to do a good day's work. His son. George 
Newell, a prominent farmer of Section 21, was born on the home place, in Osolo 
township, Elkhart county, May 12, 18 — , is the only one living of the children of 
his father's first marriage. He was reared on the farm and assisted his father in 
clearing and developing the home place. He was educated in the district schools, 
the school-house being a little log cabin with the rude furniture of that day, and in 
this he received instruction for about two months each year, when some difficulty 
■woiild break up the school. He remembers when there were no cook stoves and 
when all the cooking was done in an oven on the fireplace. All the plowing was 
done by oxen, and when eleven years of age he was placed between the handles 
of the old wooden plow, with ten yoke of oxen to control. He remained with 
his father until twenty-three years of age, and when the war broke out he enlisted 
in the Second Indiana Cavalry, Company M, under Capt. J. A. S. Mitchell, of 
Goshen. He started from home on horseback and went to Indianapolis, Ind., 
where he was mustered in and rode on South. His first engagement was the 
bloody battle of Shiloh. Afterward he was in the battle of Pea Ridge, and at 
Murfreesboro he was captured and paroled. He was wounded at Hartsville, 
Tenu., by a minie-ball, and also had his horse shot from under him in this battle. 
He would not go to the hospital, but marched on foot thirty-two miles, partly 
through swamps, and was fed by the colored people. On reaching Murfreesboro 
the whole regiment was captured but soon paroled. Mr. Newell was then detailed 
in the quartermaster's department and served in the same until the close of the 
war. Then, after three years' service, he came home and resumed farming, which 
he has continued up to the present time. He owns three farms, consisting of 
eighty acres each, all of which is under cultivation. Mr. Newell has never sought 
office of any kind, but attends strictly to business. He has a herd of twenty 
head of fine Jersey cows and runs what is known as the Cream Dairy Farm. He 
selected his wife in the person of Miss Sarah A. Compton. a native of this county, 
and their nuptials were celebrated in 1864. Two children were born to this 
union, viz., Minnie and Nattie. Mr. Newell is one of the prominent farmers of 
the county and is quite wealthy. 



MEMOIRS OF IJS^DIANA. 751 

Luther McCoy was oae of the successful farmers of Elkhart county, Ind. , but 
was born in the southern part of Maine on March 11, 1822, being a son of David 
and Rebecca (Hartline) McCoy, the former of whom was born in Scotland and at an 
early day left the laud of "thistles and oatmeal" to seek his fortune in the New 
World, and took up his residence in the Pine Tree State, where he reared a family 
of thirteen children: John, Margaret, James. Mary, William, Sarah, David, Samuel, 
Oliver, Luther, Benjamin, Daniel and an infant. All these children are dead but 
Luther and Daniel, the latter being a resident of Peoria county, 111. The family 
moved back to Scotland when Luther was only a year old, but remained there only 
a short time when they again came to the United States and this time settled in 
Pennsylvania and later in Ohio. Thej' resided in Hamilton county, of the latter 
State until 1861 or 1862, when Tazewell county. 111., became their home, and there 
the father and mother were called from life, both being over one hundred j'ears of 
age at the time of their deaths. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and being of industrious and prudent habits, they acquired a good prop- 
erty. Luther McCoy was reared principally in Ohio on a farm, but received a lim- 
ited education, and remained at home until he was about twenty-three years of age. 
He then went to California to prospect for gold, taking the overland route to that 
section, and remained there for about one year and upon his return to the East he 
stopped in Iowa where he worked on a farm for some time. Succeeding this he 
went to Knox county, 111., where he farmed for several years. Following this 
he went to northern Iowa, where he continued to till the soil until 1859, then came 
to Indiana. Some time later he started to Illinois, but upon reaching Elkhart 
county, this State he decided to settle on a tract of land which he owned here, re- 
siding for some time in Locke township. He later bought a farm in Harrison town- 
ship and has, for the past twenty seven years, tilled it successfully. His acreage 
now amounts to 119, all of which is well tilled and shows that a man of thrift has 
the management of affairs. It was but little improved at the time of his purchase, but 
through his energy is now as good as any in the county. He is engaged in general 
farming and gives considerable attention to stockraising. A Republican in poli- 
tics, he takes an active interest in such matters and has held a number of township 
offices. He was married in Illinois in 1854 to Miss Sarah Allen, who was born in 
Michigan, August 13, 18-10, a daughter of James and Mary (Howard) Allen, both of 
whom were York State people and were early settlers of the State of Michigan, and 
afterward of Illinois. They were the parents of three children: Orange, who died 
at the age of eight years; Sarah and Marrilla. The father of these children died in 
Lake county, Ind., but the mother is still residing at Saline, Mich., at the advanced 
age of eighty years. To Luther McCoy and his wife seven children were born, all 
of whom are living but one: William was born December 26, 1858. resides in Elk- 
hart, and he and his wife are the parents of three daughters — Elsie, Elva and Ethel; 
Ira was born in Illinois, November 15, 1859, is a man of family, having two children — 
Clyde and Ira D., and is living in Elkhart; James M. was born February 22, 1863, 
and died at the age of twelve years; Charles was born January 16, 1870, and re- 
sides at home; Pearl was born April 27, 1874; Viola was born November 13, 1876; 
Mary was born April 15, 1880. Mrs. McCoy's maternal grandparents were John 
and Mary (Haraway) Howard and her paternal grandparents James and Rhoda 
(Martin) Allen. Mr. McCoy and his family are among the prominent people of 
Harrison township, and being active in farthering good causes, are deservedly pop- 
ular and have many friends. 

Edwin H. Stevens of Elkhart county, Ind., springs from an old colonial fam- 
ily that took root on American soil during the early history of this country. The 
family came from England and became prominent in the New England States, many 
members of the family, to-day, being prominent in the various walks and professions 
of life. In this branch of the family there is a tradition that four brothers founded 
the family in America and that two of them were soldiers in the American Revolu- 



752 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

tion, one of whom was taken prisoner, and while being couveyed to England died and 
was buried at sea. The other brothers settled in Connecticut and from one of them 
Benjamin Stevens, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, is descended. He 
was born in the Nutmeg State, there tilled the soil, but eventually moved to Brad- 
ford county, Penn. , of which section he was one of the pioneer settlers. His chil- 
dren were named as follows: Ebeuezer, Joel, Benjamin, Zera, Charles, Olive, 
Lydia, Thersa. Nancy and Thankful. He was a substantial and enterprising citi- 
zen and in middle life died in Bradford county, Penn. Ebenezer Stevens, his sou 
and the father of the gentleman whose name stands at the head of this sketch, was 
born in Salisbury, Conn., October 31, 1792, and for a business learned the manu- 
facture of cloth. In early manhood he went to Bradford county, Penn., with his 
parents, where he was united in marriage to Miss Dolly Strope, of Dutch stock, whose 
remote ancestors settled in the Mohawk Valley, N. Y. , where they acquired consid- 
erable property and later removed to the Susquehannah Valley, Penn. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Stevens were born six children: Celinda, Edwin H. , LucindaM. , William 
Wallace, Lydia and George. After his marriage Mr. Stevens resided on a farm in 
Bradford county, Penn., for some years, then purchased a mill and manufactured 
cloth in Tioga county, N. Y. , for a number of years, then sold his property and 
bought a farm in the same neighborhood near Owego, N. Y., where he became a 
charter member of the Owego Baptist Cluirch. He took a very active interest in 
religious matters, was a devout Christian and assisted liberally with his means to 
support his church. When his family were all grown he disposed of his property 
there and removed to Kansas, where he built a house near the Neosho River with the 
intention of making a settlement, but being a strong advocate of the anti-slavery 
cause and one of the original abolitionists, he was obliged to leave that section on 
account of the troubles there, and soon after "pitched his tent" in Indiana, his 
residence from that time (1857) until his death being in Elkhart county. He built 
him a substantial residence, in which he passed many useful years of his life and in 
which he died January 31, 1880, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years. Dolly, 
his widow, died February 23, 1892, at the advanced age of ninety-three years. He 
was a man of great integrity of character, upright and honorable in every particular 
and commanded respect from all classes. In his younger days he was a man of 
great energy and was very industrious. One of his sons, George W., was a soldier 
in the Fifth Kansas Cavalry, was iu several battles, was taken with lung fever at 
Helena, Ark., and died at Kansas City in 1865 from the effects of this illness. He 
held the rank of first lieutenant in his company, and was about to be promoted to a 
captaincy when his last illness overtook him. He was a gallant soldier, and although 
he did not fall on any battlefield, he none the less died for his country. Ebenezer 
Stevens was a man of strong religious convictions. His was one of those sterling 
characters, the memory of which his descendants will always delight to honor. 
Edwin H. Stevens, the subject of this sketch, was born February 12, 1822, in Brad- 
ford county, Penn., and when young went with his parents to Tioga county, N. Y. , 
where he received a limited education in the common schools, but was afterward fort- 
unate enough to attend the Owego Academy, a State institiition, at which time one 
of his schoolmates was Thomas C. Piatt, now ex-Senator Piatt of New York. After 
finishing his education Mr. Stevens made a tour of inspection through the West, vis- 
iting different points in Wisconsin, the city of Chicago and other places, and re- 
turned home the same year. In 1851 he engaged in the mercantile business at 
Ashland, Ohio, but the following year embarked in the same occupation in Goshen, 
Ind. On March 10. 1853, he led to the altar Miss Mary C. Violett, who was born 
April 9, 1831, in Elkhart county, a daughter of Major Violett, one of the prominent 
and honored citizens of this section. (See sketch of the Violett family.) Mr. Stevens 
remained in Goshen for about two years after his marriage and in 1854 settled on a 
farm a short distance northwest of the town. This farm he cleared and greatly im- 
proved, planting orchards and erecting substantial buildings. At the end of ten 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 753 

years he returned, and having, by industry and economy accumulated a substantial 
property, he interested himself in financial matters iu the way of loaning money and 
doing a general brokerage business. In 1869 he again turned his attention to agri- 
cultural pursuits, purchasing a tine tract of land three miles northeast of Goshen, 
consisting of 320 acres on which he remained until he retired from active work in 
1891. He now resides in his pleasant and commodious residence in the city of 
Goshen, but still takes a vigorous interest in business matters. His family circle 
was made complete by the birth of five children: Charles, Jesse F. ,Emma V., 
Mattie E. and Morton E. Both Mr. and Mrs. Stevens are members of the Baptist 
Church of Goshen and Mr. Stevens is now church trustee. Politically he is a firm 
Republican and was one of the original anti-slavery men of New York State and had 
the honor of casting his first vote for that stanch anti-slavery candidate, James 
G. Biruey. During the war he was warmly patriotic and enlisted in the first com- 
pany that Elkhart ever raised. This company reported to the governor at Indiana- 
polis and went into camp at Camp Morton. There being a surplus of men, his 
company was not received and was shortly afterward disbanded. Mr. Stevens is a 
man in whom the people of Elkhart county have the utmost confidence, and for 
whom they have unbounded respect, and the interests of which he represented in 
the State Legislature in 1878-9. He is one of the well-known men of Goshen, his 
integrity is unimpeachable and stands very high as an honored citizen. He is a 
man of active and intelligent mind and has always taken an active interest in public 
affairs, and has given efficient aid to the cause he believed to be right and has always 
worked for the good of his country and section. He keeps himself well informed on 
all matters of importance and is a man of wide experience and general information, 
which he has acquired by extensive reading and by his experience of eight years 
when a young man in New York State as a school teacher and a superintendent of 
schools. Although a man of liberal means and frequently solicited to do so, he has 
taken no interest in holding public office, preferring the quiet and peace of his home 
life to the strife and turmoil of politics. His daughter, Jessie P., married R. M. 
Woodford, cashier of the Peoples' Home Savings Bank of San Francisco, Cal., by 
whom she has one child. Donna L. ; Emma V. married B. N. Cornell, a grocer of 
Goshen, by whom she has one daughter, Mary L. ; Mattie E. married Frank L. 
Woodford, of Kansas City, in the Pacific & United States Express office, and has two 
children, Edwin and Frank; and Morton E. was graduated from the law department 
of the State University at Ann Arbor, Mich., in 1889, was admitted to the bar in 
Michigan and settled at Trinidad, Colo. He is a young man of brilliant attainments, 
capable, ambitious, energetic and is a successful and rising young lawyer. He is 
the present attorney at Trinidad for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad Company. 
Ch.4rles O. Wood. Although a native of Michigan, born in Detroit, December 5, 
1845, all Mr. Wood's recollections are of Elkhart county, for he was but eighteen 
months old when his parents came to this county. Here he was reared and here he 
has spent the principal part of his days. All his interests are centered iu this 
county and he understands, as it were, by instinct, the needs, social and industrial, 
of this vicinity and has a thorough knowledge of its resources. His parents, 
Orlando L. and Elizabeth (Hicks) Wood, were natives respectively of Canada and 
Genesee county, N. Y. , and were married in Detroit, Mich., whither their parents 
had moved. Orlando L. Wood was a captain on a lake steamer for eight years for 
the American Fur Company. He first went on the water as a sailor when a boy and 
when twenty-two years of age he was in command of a vessel. After following the 
sea for fourteen years, and after being in many storms, wrecks, etc., in 1847 he 
came to Elkhart county, Ind. , and located on the farm now owned by Charles O., 
our subject. He first purchased 160 acres of wild land, worked on this during the 
winter months, making many improvements, and during the summer season he 
returned to the sea. His farm was covered with timber, principally oak, and he 
erected a little log cabin in which he lived until he could build a better one. He 



754 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

subsequently left the lakes aud settled permanently on his farm. During the war 
he was township trustee aud also held other local positions. He soon made many 
fine improvements on his place, and here his death occurred in 1888; his widow is 
still living. They were the parents of two children, a sou and a daughter, the latter, 
Anna, dying December 4, 1891. Charles O. Wood, the son, passed his boyhood and 
youth on the farm in Elkhart county and received his education in the schools of 
the same. He has always made his home on his father's farm and has witnessed 
the marvelous growth and rapid settlement of this county. He is now the owner of 
154: acres joining the corporation of Elkhart, having sold seventy acres to the Elk- 
hart Driving Association, which is located just west of his residence. He has one 
of the best improved and most productive farms in Osolo township. The soil is a 
saudy loam, very productive, and he raises all kinds of grain. He is also actively 
engaged in stockraising and has some fine animals. Progressive and enterprising, 
he is one of the representative agriculturists of the county and keeps his farm in 
excellent condition. The marriage of Mr. Wood with Miss Amanda Young, a 
native of Canada, took place in 1878, aud two children have blessed their home: 
Jesse and Herbert. 

The Gulp Family are among the most prominent of the early families of Elk- 
hart county, Ind., and have for many years ranked among its leading agriculturists, 
in following which calling the male members of the familj' have been pronouncedly 
successful. Henry J. Gulp, who is a successful tiller of the soil of Harrison town- 
ship, is a native of Ohio, a son of John aud Sarah (Wisler) Culp, and a grandson 
of Henry and Elizabeth (Clipper) Culp, who came to this country from Germany, 
Henry, the grandfather, being an earnest member of the Mennonite Church 
throughout life. For many years he made his home in the asylum that had been 
provided by the forethought of William Penu, but in an early day removed to Ohio, 
where he was called from life on August 13, 1868, at which time he was in good 
circumstances financially, his valuable property having been acquired through his 
own efforts. He was active in politics and first supported the Whig party, and later 
the Republican party. In addition to following the occupation of farming, he also 
worked at shoemaking, and in early days the pegs which he used in their construc- 
tion were made by hand. His wife, Elizabeth, died in Ohio in 1867, at the age of 
eighty years, having become the mother of thirteen children: George, who is a resi- 
dent of Nappanee; Michael aud Jacob, who reside in Ohio; Anthony; John; Joseph; 
Henry; Samuel; Magdaline; Elizabeth; Barbara; Daniel and Fannie. Barbara 
(Mrs. Heatwole), is a resident of Goshen. All these children reared families but 
Samuel, who died when young, and nearly all became residents of Elkhart county, 
but all are now deceased with the exception of George and Barbara, in Indiana, and 
Michael and Jacob, in Ohio. John was born in Pennsylvania, but when only two 
weeks old was taken to Columbiana county, Ohio, in which State he was reared on a 
woodland farm. He attended the early subscription schools of Ohio, which were in 
vogue at that period, in which he succeeded in obtaining a fair knowledge of books. 
He attained a vigorous manhood, owing to the healthy, out door life that he led.and 
was very much given to athletic sports and was probably one of the greatest wrest- 
lers that Ohio ever had. He was married in Ohio, in 1837, to Miss Sarah Wisler, 
daughter of Christian aud Susan (Holdeman) Wisler, mention of whom is made in 
the sketch of the Wisler family, that appears in this work. Mrs. Culp was born in 
Bucks county, Penn., in 1818, and was one of the youngest members of her parents' 
family. She removed to Ohio with her parents, was married there, and there re- 
sided until about 1850, when she came with her husband to Elkhart county, Ind., 
and settled in Harrison township, and located on the farm which is now owned by 
John H. Whisler. At that time it was heavily wooded, but with industry it was soon 
converted into a good farm. The father had come to this section in 1848, and 
located the farm, after which his family came and for some time thereafter lived in 
a little log cabin which Mr. Culp erected. As the country improved, this structure 



MEMOIltS OF INDI^INA. 755 

gave way to a better habitation, and at the time of his death, in 1867, he had a 
very comfortable home and was iu good circumstances liuancially. Besides farming 
he followed the occupation of painting, and while in Ohio he conducted a fulling 
and carding machine and also a saw mill. He was a life-long member of the Men- 
nonite Church, and the principles of the Republican party always commended 
themselves to his judgment. He was public spirited, held a number of local offices, 
and was interested in all movements which tended to improve the section in which 
he resided. His widow survives him at the age of seventy-five years, and makes 
her home with Henry J., her son. She has been a life-long member of the Men- 
nonite Church and has been a very active and effective worker for the cause of 
Christianity. She became the mother of thirteen children, the following of whom 
are living: Henry J.; Elizabeth, who married David S. Fox, of Olive township; 
Melchor, who is a resident of Elkhart; Hannah, who is Mrs. Anthony Myers, of Olive 
township; Alpha, who resides in Harrison township; Magdaline, who first married 
J. Rule and is now the wife of John Michael; Naoma, who married Samuel Bear, 
and is a resident of Greencastle, lud. ; Susan, who married Josiah Culp, died after 
rearing a family; Sarah became the wife of Mr. Scott, and the rest of the children 
died in infancy. The mother of these children is still in the enjoyment of good 
health and in the good will of numerous friends whom she has gathered about her 
bv her kindly and generous disposition and Christian spirit. She and her husband 
endured many hardships during their first years of their residence iu this country, 
but their persistence overcame the many obstacles that strewed their pathway, and 
they were soon in command of a comfortable competency, and beyond the reach of 
pinching poverty. They reared a large family to industrious and honorable man- 
hood and womanhood, and had every reason to be proud of the result of their 
efforts. Their son, Henry J. Culp, was born iu Ohio, February 18, 1840, and was 
a lad when the trip to Indiana was made. He attended the district schools of his 
section, in which he acquired a good education, and his naturally good constitution 
was still further improved by the wholesome life he led, for he was compelled to 
assist his father on the farm as soon as he was old enough. ^Yhen only a lad he 
was considered very ingenius and could turn his hand to almost any kind of me- 
chanical work, for the bent of his mind ran in that direction. At an early age he 
turned his attention to carpentering and built a large number of houses in Elkhart 
county, doing a general line of contracting and building, in which work he showed 
himself to be competent and skillful. He is a wide-awake and successful business 
man, very popular throughout the county, and for nearly thirty years has followed 
the undertaking Ijusiness, for which work he seems to be especially adapted, as he is 
upright in every particular, is prompt in fulfilling his contracts and is kind and 
sympathetic in his disposition. He was one of the first to establish that business in 
a first-class manner in the county, and has erected for his own use three hearses and 
funeral cars, the first about twenty years ago, which, at that time, was the hand- 
somest in the county. He made the car which is used by Culp & Son, of Goshen, 
which is superbly fitted up and very handsome of its kind. In 1892 he made and 
put in use the dnest funeral car ever used in the State, and which is entirely on a 
new plan, has many improvements and is justly considered a work of art. It is of 
his own invention and workmanship and is a credit to his skill, taste and knowledge 
of the requirements of the business. He is a first-class mechanic and is an artist 
in the way of designs. He has made a study of his calling, uses the greatest care 
in his work and his duties to the dead are performed iu a most skillful and delicate 
manner. In company with his son Ephraim, he established himself in the undertaking 
business in Goshen, in 1890, but the conduct of this establishment is left in the 
hands of his son, who is well qualified for the work. The establishment is known 
as Culp & Son, and these gentlemen expect to open a like establishment in Waka- 
rusa, in place of that which is on the farm of Mr. Culp, in Harrison township. Mr. 
Culp is a public-spirited citizen and is held in high respect by all who know him. 



756 ■ PICTORIAL ASD BIOGRAPHICAL 

He has a well-improved farm of seventy-nine acres in Harrison township, on which 
he has lived for many years, and as a farmer and stoekraiser, has been successfal, 
no less than as a manufacturer of burial goods, of which he makes a very superior 
grade. His success is due to his honor, industr}^ and good business management, 
and politically he is a strong Republican and interested in all matters tending to 
improve the county. He was married in his twenty-second year to Miss Catherine 
Loucks, daughter of the oldest living pioneers of Harrison township — Peter and 
Anna Loucks (see sketch). Mrs. Gulp was born in this township, July 4, 1844, and 
bore her husband four children: Ephraim, a resident of Goshen; Saloma, who is 
the wife of Reuben Weaver, of St. Joseph county; Anna, wife of William Canon, 
of Harrison township; and Ida, wife of Milton Able, of that township. Mr. Gulp 
has live grandchildren. After the death of the mother of his children, Mr. Gulp 
took for his second wife Maliuda Bair, daughter of Andrew and Lydia Bair. She 
was born February 10, 1853, and has borne Mr. Gulp the following children: John 
(graduated in the common school at the age of thirteen), Huldah, Leah, Jennie, 
Norah, Stanford and Milo. Mrs. Gulp is connected with the Mennonite Church, 
and has kept the faith for many years. 

Ephraim Gulp, the manager of the undertaking establishment of Gulp & Son, of 
Goshen, was born on his father's farm in Harrison township, July 26, 1864, and 
was there brought up to a knowledge of agricultural life, his education being ac- 
quired in the district schools near his rural home. He assisted his father in tilling 
the soil and in the management of his prosperous undertaking establishment until 
he attained his majority, after which he followed the trade of carpenter for two 
years, and erected a few houses and barns throughout the county. He became an 
excellent worker in wood and manifested much natural ability and taste in the work, 
qualities which he, no doubt, inherited from his father. As a business man he has 
shown much judgment and shrewdness, and as a farmer he showed himself to be 
practical and enterprising, and consequently successful. Since May, 1891, he has 
been following his present business in Goshen, his establishment being located on 
Main Street, and as he keeps a line stock of goods pertaining to his business, is 
conscientious and upright in the discharge of his duties, he is winning favorable 
opinions from those with whom he has business relations, and his patronage is con- 
stantly on the increase. He is a young man of more than ordinary business ability, 
and has shown himself to be worthy of all honor. Politically he is a strong Re- 
publican, is in every sense of the word public-spirited, and is one who would be 
considered an acquisition to any locality in which he might locate. He was married 
to Amanda, the daughter of William Gorsuch, one of the early pioneers of the 
county, and of whom a sketch appears in this work. Mrs. Gulp was born October 
30, 1864. and on December 28, 1890, bore her husband a son, whom they named 
Elmer. He and his wife are living on Sixth Street, in Goshen, and their home is a 
hospitable and comfortable one. 

Andrew H. Oudeekiek. Mr. Ouderkirk is a prominent citizen of Oaolo town- 
ship, and one whose constancy to the business in hand, and whose thrift, has added 
so greatly to the value of our agricultural regions. He is a native of Onondaga 
county, N. Y., born March 13, 1836, and is a son of John and Mariah (Pettigrove) 
Ouderkirk, natives of the Empire State also, and both of German origin. John 
Ouderkirk followed the occupation of a farmer in his native State until 1840, when 
he came West to look at the country, and perceiving the advantages to be derived 
from locating in Elkhart county, Ind., he decided to settle here. Returning to the 
East he gathered his household effects together, and with his little family, consist- 
ing of his wife and three children, took the boat for Detroit, Mich. Arriving at 
that place he bought a yoke of oxen and a wagon, loaded up his household effects, 
and started for Elkhart. He was several days making the trip, and was obliged to 
camp out. After reaching this county he settled in an old house on what is now 
known as the Tucker place, until he could build a house. He built a hewn log 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 757 

bouse, the logs being hewn on both sides, this being a decided improvement on the 
majority of log-houses of that day. Being two stories in height, with three or four 
rooms, it was considered quite a mansion for the time. The neighbors all came in 
to assist in the raising, and, as was usual in those days, a good time followed. Mr. 
Ouderkirk bought 160 acres second-handed, for which he gave '2() shillings per 
acre, and started out as all pioneers did, to improve and develop his place, which 
was covered with brush and timber. He was the one to cut the lirst stick ou his 
place, and from small beginnings he became one of the foremost farmers of the sec- 
tion. Before his death, which occurred in November, 1S80, he built the handsome 
brick residence in which our subject now resides. His widow is still living, and en- 
joys comparatively good health. They were the parents of five children, as follows: 
Mrs. Elmer J. Burns, Andrew H. , Elizabeth, Charles and Amelia. Andrew H. 
Ouderkirk was but five years of age when he came to Elkhart county with his par- 
ents, and his early scholastic training was received in the pioneer log school-house 
with slab seats. He never attended more than two months each year, most of his 
time being given to developing and clearing the farm, and has always made his 
home with his parents. He is now the owner of 160 acres — the old homestead, which 
is well improved and under a good state of cultivation. Everything about his place 
indicates that he is an agriculturist of advanced ideas and progressive principles, 
and his farm is one of the most productive and best kept in the community. In the 
fall of 1887 he was married to Miss Levina Bickerhoff. Socially Mr. Ouderkirk is 
a member of the Masonic frateruitj'. He raises considerable stock, and is thrifty 
and enterprising. 

Chkistian Landis was a native of Bucks county, Peun., where he was born on 
May 20, 1799, and many years prior to his death, which occurred iu Elkhart county, 
Ind., on February 16, 1892, was a well-known and well-to-do resident of this section. 
He was a son of Benjamin and Hester (Gayman) Landis, and the former was bom 
on the old Landis homestead in Bucks county, Penn., on which he spent a long and 
useful life and died at the age of eighty -three years. He was of German parentage 
who established a home and died in Bucks county, Penn. Benjamin and his wife 
reared three children: Moses, Christian and Abraham, in the faith of the Mennonite 
Church, of which they were members. Christian was born and reared on the home 
farm and was married in his native county to Anna Hunchberger, who was also born 
in Bucks county, Penn., a daughter of Henry and D. Hunchberger. To this mar- 
riage one child was born, Benjamin, who died in Pennsylvania when about thirty 
years old. His mother also died in that State, after which her husband took for 
his second wife Elizabeth Licey, who first saw the light of day in Bucks county, 
Penn., in 1806, a daughter of Christian Licey. To their marriage four children 
were born: Cornelius, who died in Elkhart county, Ind., at the age of thirty-six 
years; Anna; Christian, and Moses, the latter dying in 1868 at the age of twenty- 
five years. Their mother who was a member of the Mennonite Church, died in 1874. 
The family settled in Harrison township, Elkhart county, Ind., in 1857 and the 
father first purchased a tract of eighty acres, but later traded it for 160 acres. He 
became wealthy and left a large estate to be divided among his children. He was a 
decided acquisition to the county and his death was felt to be a great loss to the 
community in which he resided and iu the welfare of which he has always shown 
much interest. He was a Republican in politics. His eldest child, Benjamin, was 
married to Nancy Mover and two children were born of this union, Sarah and Henry, 
who reside in Pennsylvania. Anna and Christian are the only surviving members 
of this family and reside in Harrison township on a well-improved farm of 279 
acres all of which is well located, finely improved and an exceptionally valuable 
farm. Christian, like his father before him, is a Republican iu politics, is a man of 
good judgment and is considered one of the substantial and upright men of the 
county. 

Leonard Dinehart is a wealthy old farmer of Concord township, Elkhart Co., 



/ 



758 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

lad., and what he now has in the waj' of worldy possessions, has been obtained 
through his own good business qualities, his ability to turn everything to a good 
account and his push and energy. He was born in Copac, Columbia Co., X. Y. , 
May 6, ISIS, son of Peter and Margaret (Bechtel) Dinehart, the former of whom was 
a native of Germany, and the latter a Hollander. The paternal grandfather came 
from Germany and settled in New York State, and when the Revolutionary war 
came up, participated in that struggle, being in the colonial army. Peter and 
Margaret Dinehart spent their lives in the State of New York, and were there called 
from life. Upon starting out to fight the battles of life for himself, he succeeded in 
securing a substantial property, but he unfortunately met with financial reverses, 
and all his accumulations were swept away. This very much discouraged him and 
he never fully recovered from the losses he sustained, either financially or mentally. 
He was strictly honorable, and well thought of by those who had the honor of his 
acquaintance. His union resulted in the birth of six sons and two daughters, only 
two of whom are living: William, a resident of Yates county, N. Y., and Leonard 
Dinehart, the younger of the two, and the subject of this biography. He made the 
State of New York his home until he removed West, and his education was obtained 
in the common schools of his native State, which were by no means of the best in those 
days. Owing to the straitened circumstances in which the family were placed 
during his youthful days, he was compelled to labor early and late in order to assist 
his parents by every means in his power, but in this manner he learned lessons of 
industry and economy, which have been of great value to him in his walk through 
life, and have assisted him over many a hard path, and have been the means of 
placing him in an independent financial position. He was married in 1S42 to Miss 
Cholra E. Cale, a native of York State, and in the latter part of 1S4:4: he, with his 
wife and two children, Orrilla and Bessie, turned their footsteps toward the setting 
sun, leaving Canandaigua, N. Y. , on the canal for Buffalo, then by lake to Toledo, 
Ohio. On this trip they were wrecked between Huron and Sandusky. A terrible 
storm arose and disabled their vessel to such a degi-ee that they were unable to make 
any headway for three days. All the partitions in the vessel were demolished, all 
the fires were put out, and they were at the mercy of the winds and waves. Mr. 
Dinehart says that that was the most sincere prayer meeting he ever attended, but 
fortunately no lives were lo~t, and they eventually reached Toledo. At that place 
he took the canal for Fort Wayne, Ind., but left his family at Columbia City, which 
then consisted of two or three houses in the wooiis. He proceeded on foot from that 
place to Elkhart, where his father-in-law had settled several years before, and there 
he secured a team and drove back to Columbia City for his family. He had just 
SlOO when he reached Elkhart, and came very near losing that. He went to work 
by the day, mouth or job, in fact, took any work he could get, and in this man- 
ner labored for about fourteen years. The fall succeeding his arrival here he bought 
forty-nine acres of land for which he was to give the sum of §4O0, paying $100 
down and $50 per year until the debt was liquidated. On this land he built a little 
log house about fourteen feet square, into which he moved on New Year's Day, 
ISiS, and by hard work, close economy and push, he began to accumulate money 
and property. After a time he purchased twenty acres of timber land, but this he 
traded for forty acres of cleared laud. He next became very desirous of becoming 
the owner of forty acres of laud where he now lives, which at that time was school 
land, but he had not a cent to pay for it. He borrowed $66 from a man by the 
name of. Frink, giving him a pap^r acknowledging the loan, made a payment on the 
land with this money, and was given twenty-five years in which to pay the rest. At 
the end of the stipulated time he had it all paid for. with a number of acres, added, 
making in all 250 acres in one body. Much of this land he has generously given 
to his children, but is still the owner of a fine farm of 1311 acres, exceptionally well 
improved and tilled, and on which is one of the handsomest farm residences in the 
county. He is highly respected throughout his section, as he richly deserves to be. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 761 

for he has not onl}' beeu strictly lionorable, but has also been generous, neighborly 
and accommodating. In addition to conducting his farm he also has a dairy and 
milks about eighteen or twenty head of tine cows, disposing of this milk at his home. 
He has given considerable attention to the raising of tine stock, and has found this 
occupation not only profitable but pleasing. He has an interesting family of eight 
children living, and two sons deceased. 

Abxer Blue, a pioneer of Elkhart county, Ind., landed in Goshen in March, 
1836, the town at that time having about 200 inhabitants. He had but one ambi- 
tion, and that was to become a successful farmer, but being without the necessary 
means to secure a farm, he learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, as a means to 
an end, and the following year managed to secure the possession of some land in 
Jefferson township, and by engaging a tenant, and by the savings derived from 
working at his trade, he was enabled to move on the same in pretty fair circum- 
stances eight years later. He was born near Troy, in Miami County, Ohio, April 
3, 1819, and until seventeen years of age had not been ten miles from home. 
His parents. James G. , and Mehetabel (Garard) Blue, were born in Pennsylvania and 
Miami county, Ohio, respectively, the Blue family originally coming from Wales, 
tradition saying that four brothers immigrated from that country to America many 
years ago. James G. Blue was born May 20, 177-1, to Uriah and Ruth Blue, who 
were also probably natives of Pennsylvania but removed to Miami county, Ohio, at 
a very early day. Uriah Blue was a Revolutionary soldier and afterward became a 
Government pensioner. His death occurred on his farm, in Ohio, on which his son 
James G. was reared. The latter was a soldier in the War of 1812, and held the rank 
of captain. His marriage occurred June 18, 1799, his wife having been born August 
12, 1777, her parents being Nathaniel and Mary (Lloyd) Garard, who were early 
settlers of Miami county, Ohio, from Pennsylvania. Mr. Garard was a tanner by 
trade and for those days was considered a very wealthj' man, owning a large farm of 
improved land, and operating an extensive tannery. He became security for a friend 
and all his property and the savings of many years of hard labor were swept away. 
Those who came into possession of the property, were sympathetic and generous and 
gave him a comfortable home during his declining years. The following are the chil- 
dren of James Blue and wife: David, Judith, Mary, Ruth, Mehetabel, James G. , Black- 
ford, John L. and Abner. Mr. Blue was justice of the peace in Miami county for 
many years, and at one time represented that county in the Legislatiu'e and was also 
associate judge. His death occurred May 20, 1819. His widow survived him un- 
til January 30, 1850, her death occurring at the home of her sou Abner, in Jefferson 
township, this county. Abner came to this county with his mother at the age of 
seventeen, and as he had been deprived of a father's care when very young, his ad- 
vantages were limited. He was obliged to work early and late in assisting his mother 
during his younger years. August 17, 1848, he was married in Goshen to Harriet 
N. Clay. At that time there were but two buggies in the town, one single and one 
double vehicle, which Mr. Blue engaged for his near friends, and the wedding trip 
consisted of an overland journey to White Pigeon, Mich. While they did not enjoy 
the advantages of palace railway coaches and plush-lined drawing-room cars with 
their numerous mirrors, it is safe to say that there was no more contented or happier 
party ever set out upon a wedding journey than the one that made that trip to Michi- 
gan in the early forties. After the marriage festivities, Mr. Blue and wife settled 
on the farm iu Jefferson township and began life's labor in trying to establish a home. 
The following children were born to them: Louisa, born September 19, ISW; 
James L. Blue, born July 20, 1846; Clarinda, born November 16, 1848; Hutoka, 
born February 21, 1853. Mrs. Blue's death occurred July 26, 1859, and on October, 
28, 1862, Mr. Blue took for his second wife, Eliza N. Doolittle, who was born Feb- 
ruary 28, 1838. daughter of Hiram and Lucy (Hudson) Doolittle, the for)uer a native 
of Massachusetts, and the latter of Maine. They were early settlers of New York, 
were married there and came to Indiana iu 1834, settling at Bristol, Elkhart county. 

44 



763 PICTORIAL AJ^D BIOGRAPHICAL 

Two years later they removed to St. Joseph county, ami ou a farm near Mishawaka 
they resided until the mother died in l8r)6, and the father in 1872. They were the 
parents of the following children: Charles, Uri, George, James, Hull. Hiram, Mary, 
Julia, Lucy, Eliza and Samuel. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Blue: May, born July 31, 1864; and Freddie, born January 14, 1874, and died 
February 5, 1879. During the residence of Mr. Blue in Jefferson township, he was 
elected justice of the peace but declined to serve. He has been real estate appraiser 
of the township and has been administrator of many estates, enjoying the respect and 
contideuce of all who are so fortunate as to know him. In politics he is an ardent 
Republican but is not a strong partisan in local affairs. He cast his first vote when 
only seventeen years of age, and has voted at every election since, with one exception. 
Mr. Blue has in his possession an old family Bible, which came into the possession 
of his father in early life. It cost- $10 and took a load of hemp to purchase it, 
the hemp being hauled a distance of twenty-one miles. Mr. Blue prizes this Bible 
very highly, and it is most certainly a valuable heirloom. He is now retired fron 
active business pursuits, having passed the age allotted to man, and for several 
years has been a resident of Goshen, although he still owns the homestead in Jeffer- 
son township, and to visit which is a source of great pleasure and gratification to him, 
indicating, as it does, many years of hard labor. 

Hon. J. S. Kauffm.in is one of the successful educators of Elkhart county, lud., 
and is especially fitted for the occupation in which he is engaged both by experience 
and education. He was born in Union county, Penn., July 5, 1849. to John D. and 
Catherine (Shellenbarger) Kauffman. who were also products of the Keystone State, 
their ancestors having been early settlers of that State, and of German origin. Like 
80 many substantial and honorable men John D. Kauffman was a tiller of the soil, 
and continued to devote his attention to this occupation after his removal to Elkhart 
county, in April, 1866. After residing four miles east of Elkhart until 1869. he 
removed to Rolla, Mo. , where both died, the mother a very short time after settling 
at Rolla. Of a family of twelve children born to them, ten lived to maturity, and 
J. S. Kauffman, the subject of this sketch, is the eldest of the family. He was par- 
tially reared and educated in Pennsylvania, but after his parents' removal to Elk- 
hart county, he attended the public schools of Elkhart and Goshen, graduating from 
the normal institute at the latter place. Later he took a correspondence course in 
Chautauqua, N. Y., receiving a diploma from the school at that place. He was fa- 
miliar with the duties of farm life up to the age of twenty years, and also served an 
apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade in Elkhart, becoming thoroughly familiar 
with the details of this calling, and a practical workman. The first summer that he 
worked at his trade he received only §14 per mouth for his services, after which he 
began working as a journeyman, but for the past twenty-six years he has taught 
school every winter and sometimes during the whole year, his vacations being de- 
voted to his trade. He taught in the public schools of Elkhart one year, and for 
seven years acted as secretary of the Farmers' Insurance Company. In the month 
of October, 1871, he was married to Miss Lucy, daughter of William McDowell, by 
whom he has three children: Vida, Mabel and William. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and politically he is a stanch Republican. 
On this ticket he was elected in November, 1892, to the State Legislature, in which 
body he served with much ability and with credit to himself. His genial manners 
kind heart, generosity and intelligence, have won him numerou:^ frieuds, and when 
he once makes friends they are never lost. He is a director in the Elkhart County 
Fair Association, and under the election law he was inspector of his voting precinct 
in 1890. He has been very successful as an educator, and during the last fourteen 
3^ears has taught in three districts only, with the exception of one spent in the public 
schools of Elkhart. He has a very comfortable little home with fifteen acres of 
land, and a house and lot in Elkhart, and for a number of j'ears has taken great in- 
terest in Jersey cattle, and at the state fair of 1891 was made expert judge 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 763 

of Jersey cattle. He has a fine herJ of registered Jer8e3's, all exceptionally fine 
animals. 

Frederick Arnold Herring, M. D. At the age of eighty-one years Dr. Herring is 
one of the best preserved, physically and mentally ,of the men, few in number, who have 
attained to his age in the county. He is a typical representative of the German 
race, honest and upright in word and deed, energetic and pushing and of a decidedly 
practical turn of mind. Cordial in manner, apt in expression and full of the knowl- 
edge of men and events gathered in many years of intelligent observation, one seldom 
meets a more interesting octogenarian. He owes his nativity to Lennep, an old 
town in the Rhine province of Prussia, where he was born October 31, 1812, his 
parents being Frederick Conrad and Magdaleua (Heinricks) Herring, the former of 
whom was born in Lemgo, province of Lippe, Prussia, a town that was founded 
by the Romans in the year 10 A. D. Frederick Conrad Herring was a merchant 
who dealt in a fine line of wool zephyr almost exclusively and which became widely 
known for its fineness and superior make. He became the father of eight children 
and he and all his children, with the exception of the subject of this sketch and a 
brother, always made their home in the Fatherland. Frederick Arnold Herring was 
given the advantages of an excellent education and received a thorough drill in 
Latin, Greek and Hebrew, also chemistry and botany, and afterward attended a 
special school that was purely botanical in its instructions, and became thoroughly 
familiar with all the flora of his native and other countries and with their pharmaceu- 
tical uses and effects. In 1842 he married Amalia J. Wolff, the daughter of Cbristoph 
Wolff; she is a native of Elberfeld, Germany, where she was born June 24, 1815, 
and educated. To their union the following family of children was given: Frederick 
A., Mary A., Johanna A., John H. , Paul, Christine J., Nathaniel A. and Elizabeth. 
All, except the two last mentioned, were born in Germany, and all are now living, 
with the exception of Elizabeth. In 1855 Dr. Herring and his family crossed the 
water to America, and after residing a short time at Milwaukee they moved to 
Goshen, which place has since been their home. Since settling here he has followed 
the practice of medicine with eminent success and belongs to what could properly 
be called the German Botanic Eclectic School. He has made a specialty of treating 
diseases of many organs and his success in this respect has been phenomenal. As 
many of the requisite medicinal plants which grow in Europe and other countries 
can not be had in this country, or that can not be found in regular commerce or 
kept by the trade. Dr. Herring raises them in his garden, where he propagates 
such plants as he desires and which are not indigenous to this country. By this 
means he is insured of strictly pure herljs, which, under his watchful care and skill- 
ful compounding, produce instant and desirable results. The Doctor has been a 
life-long student, not only as relates to his profession but in things in general, and 
being patriarchal in appearance he reminds one of the alchemists of old seenin some 
of those rare paintings by the old masters. He believes in the doctrine of the old 
Apostolic Baptist Church, which is of Greek origin, one of the beliefs of this sect 
being that baptism is a saving ordinance and that it consists in immersion three 
times backward. In his political views he is broad and liberal, voting for men and 
measures and not confining himself to the support of any party, although he has 
for the most part voted and acted with the Republican party, being a strong advo- 
cate of the abolition of slavery of the mind as well as the body. Of his children 
Frederick A. is a well-known attorney of Chicago, being a member of the law firm 
of Johnson, Herring & Brooke. 

After doing the "country school act'' in Harrison township, on the Pine Creek, 
and at Beckner's School-house, in Elkhart county, he was successively principal 
of the union schools of Middlebury, Ind., Cassopolis and Mount Clemens, Mich., 
closing his teaching days in 1871; having taught four years after graduating in the 
classical course in Hillsdale College, Mich., in 1887, his present partner, Herbert B. 
Johnson, Hon. John M. Vanfleet (circuit judge of Elkhart county), and Will M. Carlton, 



764 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

the justly celebrated Michigan poet, were among his classmates. After studying 
law with Baker & Mitchell, of Goshen, he was admitted to the bar in Indiana, 
and also upon examination before the Supreme Court of Illinois, at Ottawa, 111. , in 
1872. He has had charge of and successfully conducted some of the leading board 
of trade, commercial law, as well as chancer}' cases, involving questions of title, 
important real estate suits, etc. In 1872 and 1876 he was sent by the Repub- 
lican State Central Committee of Illinois to stump the States of Illinois, Indiana 
and Wisconsin, where he did effective work as German orator, for the election of 
General Grant and Mr. Hayes, of the former of whom he was, and still is, an 
ardent admirer. He was married to Miss Kate Lonergan, the daughter of Simon 
Lonergan, one of the early settlers of Chicago, who was largely interested in the 
canal and railroad constructions of Illinois, and who died on the old homestead 
farm, near Lockport, Will county. 111. They have one child living, Eleanor F. 
Herring, nine years old. Mary A. is the widow of George W. Schaeffer, who was 
one of the principal hardware merchants of Goshen, where he died a number of 
years ago. Mrs. Schaeffer, by her excellent management and rare executive ability, 
has added to her own fortune as well as to the beauty of old Main street, in Goshen, 
by erecting two of the finest store buildings on Main street. She and her two children, 
Mary, now a young lady, and Benjamin Schaeffer, a bicyclist and athlete of 
considerable repute, reside in Goshen. Johanna A., the second oldest daughter, is the 
wife of Rev. Harry L. Bickett, of Lynnfield, a suburb of Boston, Mass., where her 
husband has, very acceptably to his large congregation, "kept his charge" faithfully 
for many years: they have one child, Helen Irene, now about two years old. Dr. 
John H. Herring, the second oldest son, resides in Eau Claire, Berrien county, 
Mich., where he has built up a wide reputation and paying practice. He has been 
mayor of the village; being himself six feet, two inches tall, "in his stocking feet," 
his presence commands respect for the "cloth," as well as law and order. He was 
married to Miss Mary Henkel, daughter of Philip M. Henkel, an old resident of 
Goshen, where he held the office of county auditor and was the projector of the canal 
and hydraulic works; they have no children. Paul, the third oldest son, has studied 
medicine at home and at the Bennett Medical College, of Chicago, and assists his 
father in his laboratory, preparing extracts of fine quality, rare and of great value; he 
also cultivates a large botanical garden, where he and his father raise many of the rarest 
and most valuable plants known in the materia meclica. Christine J. Herring, the 
youngest daughter, a graduate of Hillsdale College, Michigan, where nearly all the 
other children graduated, after having taught for several years the higher branches 
in some of the best union schools in Indiana. Michigan and Iowa, is staying at home 
now, devoting herself to her mother and Christian work. Nathaniel, the youngest son, 
after graduating from the Bennett Medical College in Chicago, two years after his 
brother John had received his diploma from the same college, went to Bremen, 
Marshall county, Ind., where he married Miss Lizzie Wright, the only daughter of 
Mr. W^right, the leading manufacturer and merchant of Bremen, and enjoys a large 
and lucrative practice; they have one child, Frederick, now about six years old. 
This, in substance, constitutes a brief resume of the family history of Dr. Herring; 
having spent nearly one half century in our midst, leading a quiet, unostentatious 
life, scarcely ever seen outside of his office or garden, during many years he has 
been recognized as one whose patriarchal appearance, the example of whose moral 
and religious life and the success of whose practice of his profession have made him 
justly celebrated in neighboring States, and even in the far West, as well as at home, 
where he is known by young and old as a kind, benignaut, charitable Christian gen- 
tleman, a model and honored citizen and a most intelligent and highly learned 
doctor. In the lore of the ancients, in antique and modern history, in philology, 
philosophy and botany, but especially in his familiarity with the history of the 
Christian church and works of the fathers of the church from the earliest times down 
to the present, and in his broad Christian work, both in this country and abroad. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 765 

he has few equals anj^where, and we doubt whether a superior. Of him and his 
worthy wife it can truly be said: "their presence is like a sweet odor in the land; 
their memory shall be a precious treasure; their children shall rise up to honor and 
to bless them." 

B. F. Cathcart. Mr. Cathcart, one of the most extensive fruit growers of Elk- 
hart county, Ind. , and a man thoroughly posted on all subjects relating to his busi- 
ness, owes his nativity to this State, born in Wayne county on January 6, 1818, and 
inherits the sturdy characteristics of his Scottish ancestors. His parents, James 
and Penina (Leonard) Cathcart, were natives of Genesee county, N. Y., and Penn- 
sylvania respectively, although the mother was reared in New York City. Our sub- 
ject's paternal grandfather, Robert Cathcart, was a soldier in the Revolutionary 
war and served fifteen mouths. He and his wife emigrated to Wayne county, Ind., 
at an early day, and later to Elkhart county, where he received his final summons. 
His wife died in Wayne county, lud. B. F. Cathcart tells the following story: 
"Once a circumstance happened at our home when we lived in three log cabins, 
grandfather occupying one. There was a large drove of cattle going by on their 
way from Illinois to New York and I went out to see them as they passed. The 
drivers were yelling at them when I heard a scream in grandfather's cabin, the door 
being on the opposite side from the road. I ran around and upon looking in saw 
grandfather lying with his head and shoulders in the fire. It was late in the fall 
and there was a hot bed of coals and his hair was all ablaze. He was holding his 
hands up and I pulled him out of the fire. The hair was all burnt off his head and 
the skin came off the back leaving the skull bare. This caused him to gradually 
fail. He was a great smoker and I suppose that when he raised up to lay away his 
pipe he got dizzy and fell back into the fire. Had I not heard him scream just as I 
did he would undoubtedly have burned to death. He was eighty- sis years old when 
he died." The Cathcarts were early settlers of Indiana and contriljuted their share 
toward the advancement and development of that State. The father of our subject 
followed the profession of a school teacher, although previously he had studied 
medicine, but not caring to become a physician he gave it up and began his career 
as an educator, teaching for twelve years in one district in Wayue county. He was 
a very prominent man and well liked by all who knew him. He had a brother, 
David, who was postmaster in Cincinnati for twelve years, at an early day. Later 
this brother was postmaster at Dayton, Ohio, where he died. The Cathcart fam- 
ily, consisting of the parents, grandfather and six children with three other fami- 
lies, left Wayne county, Ind., October 4, 1830, and made the journej' to Elk- 
hart county, Ind., the trip occupying ten days. They went in wagons and hired 
a neighbor with a four-horse team. James Cathcart lived first in a rude shanty 
belonging to Mr. Brennon. As soon as his own log cabin was finished he 
moved into it. There were no boards of any kind, not even slabs. The floors 
were split logs and the ceiling split poles. The following winter B. F. Cathcart 
husked corn on Baldwin's Prairie when the snow was a foot deep. This Mr. Bald- 
win was the first settler on the prairie. The Cathcarts located on the banks of the St. 
Joseph River and Mr. Cathcart purchased 320 acres of Government land for which 
he paid .SI. 25 per acre. Sixty acres had been pre-empted and a log cabin put up. 
Mr. Cathcart built a slab shanty in which he lived until he could build a better one. 
He went to work to put up a log house and on December -t, 1830, just after getting 
the roof on, the snow fell a foot deep. Christmas day a big dinner was given and 
the neighbors came for miles around to take part in the good time. At ihat day 
Indians were more numerous than whites and Mr. Cathcart has counted as many as 
forty in a gang. Plenty of game abounded, such as deer, turkeys, coons, etc., and a 
few bears still roamed the forest. Both parents died on this farm, and although 
years have passed since then, the memory of this worthy couple still remains fresh 
in the minds of the old settlers of this county. They were the parents of a 
large family, but only three are now living: Benjamin F. ; Marvin, an artist of 



766 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

Buchanan, Micb., and Flora, widow of Dr. Soverign, now of South Chicago. B. F. 
Cathcart was about thirteen years of age when he came to Elkhart county and he 
immediately was put to work to assist in improving and developing the farm. He 
never entered a school-honse for the purpose of learning after this thirteenth birth- 
day, and what he has acquired in the way of an education has been by his own exer- 
tions. He is indeed one of the pioneer settlers, has experienced all the hardships 
and privations incident to those days, and has cleared six different farms during his 
time. He was hardy and stood the hardships, and saw many good times in his 
younger days. In 1869 he moved to the hills and turned his attention to fruit grow- 
ing and the nursery business at which he has been unusually successful. He has 
now forty-four acres of fruit orchard and at one time had 5,000 bearing peach trees. 
He is known all over the world as a fruit grower and is a man whose long life has 
been a success. He is in comfortable circumstances and can pass the sunset of his 
life surrounded by all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. He organized a 
brass band in Bristol a half century ago and was leader of the same for many years. 
He has decided taste and talent for music, asindeedhave every member of theCathcart 
family, and is now the owner of a violin which has been in his possession for over 
sixty years. It was bought at a sale in Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Cathcart has made two 
violins in his time. Here is what he says about the violins: "I must tell you how 
the first one was made. I cut out and split a slab from a maple, long enough for 
the bottom part, handle and all, and dug it out leaving the sides on the same piece and 
made both ends the same size and fitted a top on them and then strung it with linen 
thread and made a bow by bending a limb and using horse hair for the bow-string. 
Having no rosin I used beeswax for the bow. The second one I made was all right as 
I had seen one. I wish I had saved the first one I made; it would be a curiosity to 
exhibit at the fair." He has five children, three sons and two daughters, all of whom 
are fine musicians. Mr. Cathcart has been three times married, his first union being 
to Miss Johanna Calkins of Cass county, Mich., by whom he had three children, 
one of whom is now living: James M. , of Judsonia, Ark. ; Harrison was killed at 
the bloody battle of Shiloh, he was file leader of his company and a brave soldier. 
Mr. Cathcart married for his second wife Miss Mary Ireland, by whom he had one 
son, Frank. His third marriage was to Mrs. Sarah J. Calkins by whom he had a 
pair of twins and one other child, as follows: Royal and Kosa (twins), and Anna, 
now Mrs. Wolf, of Elkhart. Mr. Cathcart is a Free Thinker and non-sectarian and 
in politics is Independent. He was a delegate to the State convention on the Green- 
back ticket at Indianapolis years ago, and has been elected justice of the peace 
but would not serve. He is held high in the estimation of all who know him and 
is a very pleasant, social gentleman to meet. He is a pleasant conversationalist 
and relates many amusing incidents of pioneer days. When a boy he wore home- 
spun clothes and felt very grand when he could get a pair of tow pants. His son, 
James M.. was in the Rebellion and was captured on Cheat Mountain. He was 
eating his hardtack in an old spring house when captured and was kept a prisoner 
about sis months, witnessing, during that time, many heart-rending scenes. 

Pardon J. Perkins. Upon investigation it is found that the founder of the 
family of which the subject of this sketch is a member, was Newman Perkins, who 
was born at Gloucester, England, in 1586, of Puritan stock and came to America in 
the good ship " Lyou," with his two sons, John and Moses. The famous founder of 
the Baptist Church in this country, Roger Williams, was a passenger on his second 
voyage to this country, and on February 5, 1631, they landed in America. John 
went to Boston where he lived two years and then settled in Ipswich, Mass. He 
afterward represented the colony in a general court and appears to have been a 
prominent man in its affairs. Newman Perkins settled in Rhode Island, where he 
was a magistrate until his death. His son, Newman, inherited the commission of 
magistrate from his father which he held for over forty years. He married and 
reared a family of children, among whom was John Perkins, the great-grandfather 



MEMOIRS OF IXDIANA. 767 

of the subject of this sketch. John married aod reared a family, among whom was 
Christopher, who was born in 1757 in Rhode Island and married Rebecca Palmer, who 
was born in the same State in 1756. While living there they became the parents of 
one child. They afterward moved to Saratoga county, N. Y. ,and there reared the 
following children: John, Lucretia, Samuel, Newman, Lydia, Benjamin, Rebecca, 
Joseph, Palmer, Christopher. At the birth of the last child the wife died and Mr. 
Perkins afterward married Hannah (Bishop) Carpenter, a widow with a family of 
five dependent children. To this union the following children were born: Moses 
and Stephen (twins), Esther, Abraham T., Hannah, Amanda and Martin B. Mr. 
Perkins moved to Saratoga county, N. Y., during the Revolution and settled on 
leased land on the west bank of the Hudson River and his cabin home was one time 
used as a hospital. He died in 1813, his widow being left in rather straitened circum- 
stances but she moved West with her children, a number of whom can remember 
the bombarding of Oswego and were within hearing of the guns. They were very 
poor in wordly goods, endured many hardships and it is said that for days they 
lived on leeks and milk and that the mother made a two days' journey to get a little 
flour, all of which she used at one large baking and as the boys worked hard they 
were given all the bread they wanted, but the girls were given but one slice. The 
industrious mother had a loom made and taught her daughters to spin and weave. 
They wove the first rag carpet used in Fulton and Oswego counties. They eventu- 
ally gained a goodly property by their industry and thrift. Mrs. Christopher Per- 
kins moved to Michigan with her son, Martin B., and at Hudson, Mich., breathed 
her last surrounded by her children 

" The mothers of our forest land 
Stout-hearted dames were the}'." 

Newman Perkins, third son of Christopher and Rebecca (Palmer) Perkins, was 
born in Saratoga county, N. Y., March 18, 1784, where he was brought up to be a 
farmer and lumberman. When twenty-one years old he went to Greenwich, N. Y. , 
and two years later to Bolton, N. Y., where he engaged in farming and lumbering 
He continued in this business until 1845. June 17, ISIO, he married Betsey Tanner 
who was born December 26, 1787, and it is here worthy of note that her cousin, W. 
T. James, made the first successful cast-iron cook stove ever made in America, in 
the manufacture of which he continued for many years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Per- 
kins were naturally inventive and their children inherited this faculty to a remarkable 
degree. To them were born ten sons: John T. , .Samuel, Elmeron, Allmon, Alfred, 
Newman, Barber, Palmer C. and Pardon J. (twins) and William T. In 1845 Mr. 
Perkins moved to Michigan and died on his farm near Dover in 1859, after which 
his widow lived with her children at Cold Water until her death in 1869. They 
were both members of the Baptist Church and he was an old line Whig in politics. 
Mr. Perkins was a man of high character, honorable, upright and of good business 
ability and in early life was a very hard worker. He instilled into the minds of his 
eons the principles of honesty, industry and virtue and gave them all good common- 
school educations, five of them becoming teachers and all of them substantial citi- 
zens. P. J. Perkins, his son, is one of those men whose sterling traits of character 
and manly virtues, deserves more than a passing mention. He was born in Warren 
coimty, N. Y. , near Lake George, April 13, 1824, and at the age of twenty began 
learning the ax maker's trade, to which his attention was given for five years. He 
was married at Cohoes, N. Y., November 22, 1849, to Elizabeth SkifF. who was born 
in the same neighborhood June 15, 1824, a daughter of Obediah and Azuba (Judd) 
SkifF, the former of whom was a pioneer of Warren county, N. Y., from Massa- 
chusetts. To Mr. and Mrs. Perkins two children were given: Charles A., born 
December 20, 1851, and Edward A., born October 31, 1858. In 1854 Mr. Perkins 
moved to Kane county. 111., and bought eighty acres of land at $15 per acre, upon 
which he afterward erected a commodious residence and other farm buildings and 



768 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

added to his original purchase until he had 170 acres of fertile land. He finally 
sold his place for $70 per acre. In March, 1871, he came to Mishawaka and bought 
residence property here and a large interest in the Perkins Wind Mill Company, of 
which he was made one of the directors and the remarkable success of which is largely 
due to bis efforts. Mr. Perkins has traveled extensively in the interests of the busi- 
ness throughout the States of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska, in which 
line of work he is remarkably gifted. He has probably sold more windmills person- 
ally than any other man in the United States, the figures reaching 1,500. His 
kindly disposition and pleasant address have made him a friend in every customer, 
and for the past eight years he has been vice-president of the company. He has ac- 
quired substantial property, owning ten residences in Mishawaka which he rents. 
He has always been a Republican and during the war was a strong Union man and 
a zealous Abolitionist. Upon the rise of the Prohibition party he became a steadfast 
adherent to its doctrine, which he now supports. Mrs. Perkins was president of the 
Sanitary Commission of Sugar Grove township, 111., during the war and received a 
large amount of money and sujaplies which she forwarded for the relief of the sick 
and disabled soldiers. She was deeply patriotic, and a devout member of the Presby- 
terian Church from her twelfth year. Mr. Perkins belongs to the Methodist Church, 
which he aids liberally with his means and influence. His wife died in Mishawaka 
on August 5, 1S81, and besides being devoted to her family was a steadfast temper- 
ance worker and ready to aid in any good cause. October 1, 1883, Mr. Perkins 
married Anna E. Oatman, born February 25, 1832, she having been a daughter of 
Alexander and Susan (Finch) Minzey, the former a Scotchman by birth. He was a 
mechanic and farmer in Branch county, Mich. By her first husband Mrs. Perkins 
became the mother of three children. She was left a widow at Toledo, Ohio, August 
19, 1878. Their children are: Harriet A., wife of Israel A. Sheridan, a prominent 
hardware merchant of Indianola (he is now a member of the State Legislature 
and has one daughter, Ethel E.); Frank H. married Letitia Drake, is now foreman 
of the Michigan Southern Railroad of Toledo, Ohio, and has one son, Howard; and 
Wilder H. , who married Mary Patterson, is a skillful carriage irouer at Flint, Mich- 
igan, and has one son, George H. Mrs. Perkins has been a devout member of the 
Methodist Church for fifty years, is a woman of high character and is well informed. 
Socially Mr. Perkins has been a member of the I. O. O. F. at Mishawaka for sixteen 
years. He is one of those men who from boyhood has lived an exemplary life and 
is strictly self-made. He is now surrounded by comfort and plenty, the result of 
honest purpose, thrift and industry. He is a man of active mind and has gained a 
wide fund of general information by travel and the reading of good books and news- 
papers. He is of a very amiable disposition and has always been a peacemaker. 
He has a remarkably good constitution and during his long life has never had occa- 
sion to call in a physician on account of any serious illness of his own. His children 
are settled in life as follows: Charles A. was married January 26, 1877, to Miss 
Nellie Hutchinson. He is a farmer of Newton county, Ind. , and is the father of 
three children: Inez, Leona and Lynn. Edward A. married September 30, 1882, 
MyrtieHiukle. He is also a farmer of Newton county and has four children: Maud, 
Frank P., Bessie and Vadah. 

Stephen Ev.\ns. In giving a history of the prominent citizens of Elkhart county, 
Ind., the biographical department of this work would be incomplete without men- 
tioning the gentleman whose name heads this sketch, for he is deservedly ranked 
among its prominent planters and stock dealers. His earnest and sincere efforts to 
make life a success are well worthy the imitation of all, and as a tiller of the soil he 
stands second to none in the county. This family is one of the prominent ones of 
Benton township and our subject is a descendant of sturdj^ Welsh stock. James 
Evans, the grandfather of our subject, was born in the Keystone State and emi- 
grated to Fayette county, Ohio, where he was one of the early settlers. His son, 
Dan Evans, father of our subject, was born in Fayette county. Ohio, received his 



MEMOIIiS OF INDIANA. 769 

education iu the district school, and was reared to farm life. He was married ia 
his native county to Miss Mary A. Shaffer and seven cliildren were given them: 
Cisset, Stephen, Elizabeth, Salena, Albert, Johauis and William. In 1851 Mr. 
Evans came to the Hojsier State, settled in Benton township on the same section 
where his son Stephen now resides, and cleared up a farm of about forty acres. 
This he sold and bought a farm of eighty acres adjoining. He is a member of the 
Methodist Church anl has been class-leader and superintendent of the Sunday- 
school for man}' years. In his political opinions he is with the Republicans, and 
during the Civil war was a strong Union man. Two of his sons fought for the 
Union, Casset and Stephen. When the war cloud hung darkly over the nation Mr. 
Evans wished to enlist, but the demands of a large family prevented him. He was 
offered the captaincy of a compan}^ He was one of the popular men of his section 
and held the office of justice of the peace for four j'ears. His reputation as an hon- 
est, straightforward man is second to none in the county and he is universally re- 
spected. He is now retired from active life and resides with his son Stephen. He 
lost his excellent wife on September 12, 1890. She was seventy-two years of age. 
Mr. Evans has ever been public spirited and has spent a great deal of money in as- 
sisting to build and maintain his church. His son, Stephen Evans, first saw the 
light of day in Fayette county, Ohio, April 10, 181-1, and was but seven years of 
age when he came with his father to this county. His early life was spent iu as- 
sisting his father to clear the land of the heavy timber and at an early age he be- 
came skillful with the ax. He received but little schooling, attending during the 
winter months for a few years, and on February 13, 1865, when but twenty years of 
age, he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Fifty-second Regiment Indiana 
Volunteer Infantry. He served nearly eight months and for the most part in the 
Shenandoah Valley. His brother Casset was in Company I, Seventy-fourth Regiment 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and enlisted in August, 1862. His death occurred on 
January 7, 1863, in the hospital at Gallatin, Tenn., of typhoid fever. After return- 
ing from serving his country, Stephen Evans engaged in farming and in connection 
ran a threshing machine for seven years. In 1868 he married Miss Elizabeth Silburn, 
daughter of James and Hannah (Milner) Silburn, and subsequently settled in Kos- 
ciusko county, Ind. , where he followed agricultural pursuits for three years. 
After this he came to his present farm, then consisting of eighty acres, and by 
energy and good management has increased his land to 240 acres. He has made 
many excellent improvements on this farm, a tasty modern brick residence has been 
erected and bears evidence of the refinement and culture of its inmates, and the 
out-buildings are all in first class order. Mr. Evans is a member of the G. A. R., 
Stanbury Post, No. 125, Ligonier, Ind., and in politics is a Republican. He is 
very popular in the community, is public spirited and enterprising, and has held the 
office of township trustee for four years. He is in favor of all improvements, 
schools, roads, etc., and has been a member of the board of education of his town- 
ship. Mr. Evans is a man of more than the average ability, is progressive in his 
ideas, and keeps thoroughly apace with the times. He began dealing in stock when 
a young man, became one of the largest in Elkhart county, and is still engaged in 
the business. He has also been a large dealer in timber. 

James Rey.volds. The subject of this sketch belongs to one of the earliest 
and most prominent pioneer families of St. Joseph county, Ind. James Reynolds 
was born in Wayne county, of the Hoosier State, near the town of Richmond, on 
August 12, 1824. He was the youngest of six sous born to and reared by Joseph F. 
and Mary (Starry) Reynolds, the former of whom was born in Frederick county, Va. , 
October 5, 1785. He came of worthy Irish ancestors, who came from the Emerald 
Isle, and settled on Virginia soil in this country. Joseph F. Reynolds was one of eight 
children: James, Joseph F.. John, Samuel, George, Mary, and two other daughters 
whose names are unknown. The paternal grandfather was a Revolutionary patriot, 
was a man of much strength of character, and reared his sons to honoralile manhood. 
Of these sons James died in Greene county, 111., leaving a family, but all are now 



770 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

deceased; Samuel died in St. Joseph county in 1854, at about the age of fifty-seven 
years, leaving a family; George F., who died in Berrien county, Mich., at the ad- 
vanced age of seventy-five years, also left a family, and the three daughters also 
reared families. Joseph F. Eeynolds was reared to follow the plow, or rather he 
learned the details of farm work on the old Reynolds homestead in Virginia, and, so 
far as education was concerned, his advantages were few and far between, the coun- 
try at that time affording very meager and limited educational facilities, but being 
quick to learn, possessing a retentive memory, and being desirous of obtaining an 
education, he became a well-informed young man by self-application, and at an early 
day engaged in teaching school. He made his parents' house his home until he was 
twenty-five years of age, at which time he removed to Kentucky, and in Bourbon 
county followed farming and school teaching for the short time that he remained in 
that State. From that point he went to Fairfield county, Ohio, where he was mar- 
ried and afterward moved to Missouri, but they were almost immediately driven out 
of this State by the Indians, and, glad to escape with their lives, leaving every ves- 
tige of their earthly possessions behind them, they came back to Indiana, and settled 
in Wayne county, all these trips, which occupied a number of years, being made by 
wagon, and the energy and enthusiasm with which he entered into his work showed 
that he possessed the essential qualities of the successful pioneer. He cleared sev- 
eral fine farms in Wayne county, and remained there until 1833, when he moved to 
La Porte county, this journey being made with an ox team and a home-made wagon, 
and for a number of years resided there on rented land, himself being unable to 
till the soil owing to the serious nature of a fever sore on his right leg, which 
eventually necessitated the amputation of that member. We, at this day, can hardly 
realize all the suffering and endurance that amputation implied. In that early time 
surgeons were few, and good ones very hard to secure. It may be said of those who 
operated upon Mr. Eeynolds, they lacked the skill that should have been theirs, and 
performed a bungling piece of work. There were no anaesthetics in those times, and 
the patient unflinchingly lay upon the table and had his limb severed from his body 
without so much as a groan or murmur, thus showing the grit and determination 
that was characteristic of the father and handed down to his noble sons. The most 
of his children were born in Wayne county, and the oldest were grown up upon their 
removal to this section of the country. He experienced pioneer life in Kentucky, 
Ohio, Missouri and Indiana, in the last-named State being a resident of two counties 
while they were in their primitive condition. He was a pronounced Whig and 
Republican, and an enthusiastic supporter of the " Mill Boy of the Slashes " (Henry 
Clay). He was well posted on the topics of the day, had decided and intelligent 
views on all subjects, and freely, eloquently and unhesitatingly expressed his views 
when called upon to do so. He interested himself in public matters to a considera- 
ble extent, and always commanded the deepest respect in the different localities in 
which he resided. His death, which occurred on April 2, 1866, when he had reached 
the age of four-score years and one, was a source of universal regret in the com- 
munity where he had so long made his home, and where he had done so much to 
build up the county, and make it the fine agricultural region that it is. His wife was 
born in Frederick county, Va. , iu 1787, and remained there until her parents emi- 
grated to Ohio, and settled in Warren county, where she met and married Mr. Rey- 
nolds. She was reared in the faith of the Presbyterian Church, was a noble woman 
in every respect, and, owing to her husband's disability, she bravely and ably cared 
for her children in their young days, bearing with unflinching courage the trials and 
hardships of the pioneer. She died at the age of fifty years, ten months and twenty- 
three days. She bore her husband a good old-fashioned family of twelve children, 
eleven of whom reached maturity, their names being as follows: Minerva, who mar- 
ried William Sheridan, and left two children — John and Ann E., who are residents 
of St. Joseph county (she was born in 1810. and died at the age of seventy-four 
years); Stewart L. was married and lived in Missouri. Iowa, Michigan, and also St. 
Joseph county, and at his death left a family of six children — George W., Mary A., 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 771 

Isabel, Joseph F., Viola and William D.); Stewart L. was born in 1811, and died 
in December, 1890; Elizabeth married Madore Cratee, and died December 18, 1852, 
at the age of thirty-nine years, leaving four daughters — Frances, Amanda, Margaret 
J. and Cynthia, two other children being deceased; John died in March, 1890, at 
the age of seventy-five years (he had been married, but all his children aredeceased); 
George W. was born in 1810, and died in 1856, at the age of thirty-nine years, hav- 
ing married Mary Folsom, and reared three children — Frank, George W. and Kate 
(his widow married John W. Zigler); Fleming died in October, 1891, in La Porte 
county, leaving a family of four children — Loran W., James F., Emma and Joseph- 
ine (two children being deceased); Cynthia, who died June 18, 1844, married 
Andrew Foster, of La Porte county, by whom she had three children — John E., Mary 
E. and Anna E. ; Margaret married Mr. Foster, the husband of her deceased sister 
Cynthia, and their union resulted in the birth of three children — Ella, Margaret and 
Clara (she died December 24, 1861, at the age of thirty-nine years); Ethan S. is liv- 
ing in South Bend, is a man of family, and of three children born to him one is living — 
Edwin B. (those deceased are Charley and Ethan A.); James, the subject of this 
sketch, is the next member of this family in order of birth; Pamelia died February 
5, 1848, at the age of twenty-one years, and was never married. The sons all be- 
came well-to-do men, and all were at first Whigs in politics and later Republicans. 
The mother of these children died in La Porte county in 1837, and the father in 1866 
at the home of his son James. 

James Reynolds attended the district schools in the vicinity of his home in 
La Porte county, but, like that of most farmer's boys, this included only the winter 
months, his summers being devoted to assisting on the home farm. He, however, 
having a good memory and strong intellect became well informed. He has always 
kept well posted upon the current events of the day, and is a great admirer of his- 
tories. He remained at home, lending valuable aid to the family's support, until he 
was twenty-four or twenty-five years old, when he started in life upon his own 
resources. The first investment he made for himself was in the purchase of a team 
of horses from his brother, Stuart, for which he paid .?200, owning them but a short 
time, he had the misfortune to have the best one stolen by horse thieves, who were 
numerous and hard to capture in that day, there being poor telegraphic and rail- 
road facilities. He spent two years farming with his brother, John, at the end of 
this time he borrowed $7,000 and opened a general mercantile establishment at 
Buchanan, Mich. , with John as partner, where he remained for three years, the 
business being wholly managed and conducted by James. His next move was to 
Dayton, Mich., engaging in the same business, and during the six years that he 
remained here he was prosperous and successful, but, owing to ill health, he was 
obliged to abandon the mercantile business and again enter the pursuits of a farmer, 
moving to his brother John's farm and for two years working it on shares. In 1861 
he purchased about 320 acres of land, and with his family moved to the same, 
where he still resides. From unsettled notes and accounts left from his mercantile 
business, and with profits from his farm, he was enabled to invest in other farm 
lands until he is now the owner of about 2,100 acres in St. Joseph and La Porte 
counties, all of which is composed of well-improved and valuable farms. He and 
his late brother, John, also own about 800 acres in Floyd and Delaware counties, 
Iowa, a tine farm of 200 acres in Berrien county, Mich., and about ten acres in 
Chicago, on which there is a stone quarry, twenty acres of valuable land in South 
Bend also belongs to him, which is soon to be laid out in lots. During the war Mr. 
Reynolds was loyal to the cause and assisted liberally toward the support of the 
wives and widows left at home. He was physically unable to pass the requisite 
examination which would have made him a soldier, but he furnished a substitute, 
who was liberally compensated. In 1890 he was elected president of the First 
National Bank at Buchanan, Mich., which position he still holds. He and his brother 
John, formed a strong attachment for each other, more than most brothers, perhaps' 
they having lived for nearly half a century within a mile of each other's homes' 



772 PICTORIAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL 

hardly a day passing that they did not converse together. They also traveled quite 
extensively together, both for pleasure and business, miiking a long tour to Cali- 
fornia in 1869, visiting all important points of interest on the Pacific coast. They 
also enjoyed many other trips together. He makes his home on the old farm where 
he has lived since 1861, the tract comprising 350 acres of finely improved land on 
which is a beautiful brick residence and line barns. The general surroundings, the 
well-kept lawn and hedges, show the thrift and enterprise that have ever been char- 
acteristic of Mr. Reynolds. In politics Mr. Reynolds has always been a Republican, 
and the interest which he manifests in the business affairs of life has made him one 
of the most popular and prominent citizens of St. Joseph county. He was married 
in 1853 to Nancy S. Howe, daughter of Frederick and Mary (Bliss) Howe, which 
family came from the State of New York in 1835 and settled in Berrien county, 
Mich., where the father died when seventy-four years old, and the mother at the age 
of seventy-eight, a family of twelve children having been born to them: Alonzo, 
Desire, Francis, Hezekiah, George, Charles, William, Mary, Lncinda, Adaline, 
Nancy and Charlotte. William, Alonzo, George, Charlotte and Mary are dead. 
William died in infancy, Charlotte at the age of eighteen years. The rest of the 
children grew to honorable manhood and womanhood, and now have families of their 
own. Mrs. Reynolds was born April 17, 1827, near Truxton, Cortland county, in 
the State of New York, and was only a child when the family came to Berrien 
county. She was reared in the neighborhood where she now resides, was edu- 
cated in the public schools, and is a member of the Episcopal Church. She has 
four children: Zurelda, born May 18, 1856, is married to Dr. Van Riper, of New 
Carlisle, by whom she has three children: James R., Zurelda and Franc. The 
Doctor is at the head of his profession, enjoys a large practice, and is a public- 
spirited man. John F., the next child, was born October 12, 1858, is living at 
South Bend, is the cashier of the Citizen's Bank of that place, is married to Carrie 
Wells, and has two children: John F. and Wirt C. Clara, the next child, was born 
July 14, I860, is the wife of Dickson Scoffern, and is living on a farm in Olive town- 
ship, one and one-half miles from New Carlisle. They were married in 1889, and 
Mr. Scoffern is a wide-awake and prosperous young business man. Estelle, the 
youni^est of this family, was born January 10, 1866, and is the wife of Clyde H. 
Baker, of Buchanan, Mich. He is a general merchant of that place, and was born 
at Baker's Town, which was named after his people. He was reared in Berrien 
county, and is a Republican in politics, and on that ticket was elected township 
treasurer. He is a Mason, and in that worthy organization has attained to the 
Chapter. He and his wife have one daughter, Elizabeth H. Baker, who was born 
July 2, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds are among the most popular people of the 
county and move in the highest social circles when they so desire. The Reynoldses 
are a worthy people, root and branch, and have every reason to be proud of their 
worthy ancestry and their untarnished name through many generations. 

John Reynolds, brother of James, was born near Lancaster, Fairfield county, 
Ohio, July 12, 1814. He was the second son and fourth child of a family of twelve 
children. His parents being very poor his chances for education were very limited; 
he, however, was a man who would absorb knowledge, school or no school, he being 
a person of great natural intelligence. He remained with his parents, most of the 
time living in Wayne county, Ind. , until about fifteen years of age, when an incident 
occurred which changed the current of his life. He and his older brother Stuart 
had been working for a well-to-do neighljor, clearing some land. When the work 
was finished the farmer refused to pay the boys, saying he considered he was doing 
a very charitable act in allowing such poor boys to even work for their board. 
Stung to the quick by this harsh treatment and unfeeling taunt. John proposed to 
his brother to leave home and elsewhere seek their fortunes. The brother agreed 
to this, but the father upon hearing their intentions forbade their going. Nothing 
daunted the Ijoys prepared to go, and were assisted by their mother, who got to- 
gether their few poor articles of clothing, fitted John out with a pair of rude home- 



MEMOIUS OF INDIANA. 773 

made shoes with soles fastened with dog-wood pegs, and assisted in starting them 
out in the world to struggle for their existence. They started on foot for Fort 
Wajme, John Reynolds having only SI. 31 in his possession, the savings of his early 
life. Their sufferings from cold and hunger were terrible on their long journey 
through the wilderness, but they struggled on, preferring to die rather than give up. 
Near Fort Wayne John got a position on a farm at §2 per month. He worlied so 
faithfull}' he was soon promoted foreman of the workmen. It was here he got the 
foremauship of a gang of men on a contract for digging a great feeder to the Wabash 
& Erie Canal, and upon this work he threw up the first shovelful of dirt. At 
about the same time he learned the blacksmith's trade of a Quaker, and for many 
years worked at different times at this trade. In 1833 Mr. Reynolds came to South 
Bend and entered into several contracts and sub-contracts on the Michigan road, 
which was a State enterprise. In September of the same year he returned to Wayne 
county, and assisted the rest of the family to move to northern Indiana. After the 
family had settled Mr. Reynolds went to La Porte county, where he followed the 
blacksmith's trade for three yeais, making Sl-l per mouth manufacturing plow points. 
He was then twenty-one years old, and getting together a farming and lilaeksmith- 
ing outfit, and in a roughly made wagon he went to Illinois, where he took up a 
claim which he worked during the day, while he labored at his blacksmith forge at 
night. As he was the only blacksmith in that region who understood welding by 
the use of boras, he was often kept busy all night at his forge, and frequently made 
$25 per night at blacksraithing. In only three months he was enabled to sell his 
Illinois claim for $2.U00, and this sum gave him his first material start. He then 
returned to La Porte county and worked at his trade for a time, and later purchased 
a stock of goods at Hudson, that county, and entered the mercantile business at that 
point. He remained here for a few years, then removed to Hamilton, St. Joseph 
county, where, with his brother George as his partner, they sold goods. From 
Hamilton they went to Buchanan, Mich., and remaining there a few years the firm 
sold out and went to South Bend, again entering the mercantile business with his 
brothers George and Ethan, remaining in business here until George's death. He 
and his brother George took some railroad contracts for the laying of ties and rails 
on the Lake Shore Railroad from Adrian, Mich., to Toledo, Ohio. The ties were 
purchased by their brother James, and out of this job they made considerable 
money. John got a contract for laying ties and putting in culverts, bridges, etc., 
on the Lake Shore Road, west from Toledo to the Indiana State line. His partners 
in the contract were unequal to the task, and let the burden fall upon his shoulders. 
At the same time the railroad became involved and left Mr. Reynolds to finish up 
his work unassisted. This he did. and for some time operated as a private enter- 
prise a section of the Lake Shore Road. The railroad company at last got out of its 
difficulties in about three years, and Mr. Reynolds sold to them his share of the line. 
He was also a very extensive contractor on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Rail- 
road. Shortly before 1860 he left mercantile pursuits, and from that time to his 
death devoted his ability to moneyed enterprises. In 1844 he was married to Clara 
Egbert, the daughter of John Egbert, a family prominent in the northern part of 
the State. Five children were born to them, all dying in infancy, except a daughter, 
Florence. Florence married Walter M. Howland, a Chicago attorney, and died in 
1874 at the age of twenty-five years. The wife died in IS.Jfi. Mr. Reynolds was 
first a radical Whig, and afterward an unflinching Republican. In 1850-51 he 
was elected to the State Legislature. In 1862 he was elected to fill the vacancy in 
the State Senate caused by the resignation of Senator John F. Miller, and so great 
was the esteem in which he was held by all parties tliat he had no opposition. He 
again went to the Legislature in 1867, and in 1864 was a delegate to the Republican 
national convention at Baltimore, that nominated Mr. Lincoln for his second term. 
He was one of the Blaine and Logan presidential electors in 1884, and otherwise 
figured in politics. He was a member of the Constitutional convention, and rendered 
valuable service there. When the war broke out he was fifty-seven years old, too 



774 PICTORIAL ^mD BIOGRAPHICAL 

old to do duty as a private soldier, althoagh his inclinations were that waj'. He 
did the next best thing, sent two substitates to the front, and besides paying them 
handsomely, looked after their families while they were gone. All through the last 
days of the war, while matters looked so dark for the Union's cause he was a trusted 
friend of Gov. Morton, and spent much of his time with the Governor at Indianap- 
olis. He was one Indianian who never for a moment doubted the success of the 
Union's cause. He never belonged to any religious denomination, but was a man 
with the most charitable inclinations, and enjoyed a reputation for spotless integrity. 
Sums were given for charity without the knowledge of the world, and many nieces 
and others were given a good home and a start in life from assistance rendered by 
John Reynolds. He died March 31, 18.J0, at his home in Olive township, having 
lived beyond the allotted three-score and ten years; living a life of toil, especially 
during the early portion of his career, while trying to obtain a start in life. At the 
time of his death he owned an interest, and was director of the First National Bank 
of South Bend, and also of the First National Bank of Michigan City. He was 
president of the Buchanan, Mich., Bank, and a heavy stockholder in the Union 
National Bank of Chicago. He owned real estate in the latter city, and a great 
amount of the finest farm land in St. Joseph county. Mr. Reynolds was a plain, 
outspoken man, stanch in his friendships, and loyal to those he thought in the right. 
He was a man of decided opinions, but always open to argument and conviction, on 
any subject. For these traits he was loved and admired by his neighbors and numer- 
ous friends throughout the State. His advice was sought by young and old upon 
political, financial and social topics. Thus is given a brief outline of the lives of 
James and John Reynolds. They never hesitated to do any work of an honorable 
kind that presented itself, and po.ssessing superior intellects, they usually succeeded 
in whatever they undertook. Their lives, although incompletely sketched, afford 
much food for contemplation from the young man without capital beyond his own 
energy and innate shrewdness and ability to wage the bitter warfare of life. It is 
a type of America's self-made men, a career worthy of emulation and imitation. 

Col. L. M. Taylor (deceased), joint founder of South Bend, was Ijorn Jul^y 4, 
1805, in Clinton, Oneida Co., N. Y. When four years old his parents moved to 
Buffalo and after two years' residence there crossed the lake and settled in Detroit. 
He v^as then six years old, and his brother pioneer, Alexis Coquillard, a native of 
Detroit, was seventeen. The boy of six and the lad of seventeen, who were a few 
years afterward to meet among the Indians and found the leading city of northern 
Indiana, never saw each other in Detroit. The United States and England were at 
war then, and young Coquillard was acting as courier between Detroit and Gen. 
Harrison's army in this territory. The Taylor boy remembered Detroit as overrun 
with hostile Indians marching about the streets vyith scalps of white men dangling 
from their belts, and carrying the heads of their victims on poles. Then came Hull's 
advance to attack Fort Maiden; his subsequent retreat back to Detroit; the attack 
of General Brock and the Indians under Tecumseh on the fort at Detroit; Hull's 
cowardly surrender — all of these were impressed on the mind of the six-year-old boy 
and he was glad when his parents, with hundreds of others, went to Maiden, on the 
Canada side, and remained through the winter of 1813. When the troubles were 
over his parents crossed the lake to Cleveland, and lived there three months, then 
moved to Lower Sandusky. After a four years' residence there, they settled in 
Montgomery county, Ohio, and remained six years, when they went to Fort Wayne, 
which was a prominent Indian trading post, in the recently admitted State 
of Indiana. There one of his sisters married an influential and wealthy Indian 
trader named Samuel Hanna, and young Taylor entered his employment. He had 
already learned the languages of the Pottawattomies, Miatnis and other local Indian 
tribes, and developed such unusual business ability that he soon became Mr. Hanna'a 
most trusted adviser. But young Taylor was anxious to strike out for himself, and 
Mr. Hanna offered to back him in establishing a trading post in what was then 
known as "St. Joseph country." Young Taylor struck out in a northwest direction 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 775 

from Fort Wayne, and reached the site of the present city of South Bend Septem- 
ber 25, 1827. He was the second white man to locate on the future site of the city. 
His predecessor wa-s Coqiiillard, the boy scout between Detroit and Harrison's army 
during the War of 1812. Alexis Coqiiillard had located here in 1822, and opened 
a trading store right on the spot of ground now covered by Pearl avenue, in front 
of the E. Pitts Taylor residence. When young Taylor came here Coquillard had 
abandoned that store and was in a new log building on the site now occupied by 
Miller & Lontz's coal yard, corner of Michigan and Water streets. Mr. Coquillard 
lived in a part of his house, and it was the only one here. He had great faith that 
the village would grow north from Water street instead of south. The southern 
Michigan country was settled, while south all was Indian country to the Wabash 
Kiver. He advised young Taylor to locate his store near him. The site selected is 
now occupied by the residence of Mrs. Keedy on Michigan and Marion streets. 
Young Taylor found a spring of excellent water under the bank there, and also an 
overflow or back water, in the river where fishing was good. There were no streets 
of course. The site of the city was thickly covered with a growth of hickory, white, 
black and burr oaks. These were felled only as the settlers who came needed them 
for their log houses and for fuel. Mr. Taylor, with the aid of Indians, cleared a 
spot large enough for his trading post, and soon had a stock of goods. Mr. Coquil- 
lard saw in the slim young New York Yankee a competitor for the Indian trade, but 
their rivalry was always friendly, and the men always good friends, both working to a 
single end — to see a large town on this Ijeautiful southern bend in the St. Joseph River. 
Young Taylor was physically tall, slim, fair of complexion, gentle in his manners, 
even tempered, and soon won the confidence of the Indians by his kindness and 
strict adherence to his promises. It was a rule of his life never to deceive any one, 
and he carried out this rule as religiously in dealing with Indians as with whites. 
Among the Indians he was called " Massaquanquat," their name for a red haired 
man. He soon became known throughout the St. Joseph country for his fair deal- 
ings, and prospered. Mr. Taylor had been in his trading store but a short time 
when he saw it was out of the line of travel, and he soon changed to the site where 
the E. P. Taylor residence is, on Pearl avenue. Tliis was right on the line of travel 
for the few white people passing through. An acquaintance immediately sprang up 
between the young merchant and Judge Peter Johnson's daughter, Mary, which 
ended in marriage. Judge Johnson was a useful pioneer, as were his sons Evans 
and Lea. He built the first keel boat used on the river to transport goods. He 
erected and kept the first frame house used as a tavern, on the site now occupied by 
the Coonley drug store. He built for his son-in-law. Mr. Taylor, the first frame 
building to be used as a store room. It was a store and a residence combined, 
and stood on the site now occupied by the Wyman store. The old red brick court- 
house was built under his supervision. When Mr. Taylor's business justified he 
had his father-in-law build, in 1835, the large store-room on the corner of Michigan 
and Washington streets, where the Cushing drug store is now located. One of Col. 
Taylor's first investments, after he got a start, was the purchase from the Govern- 
ment of the large tract of " oak barrens " that is to-day known, not only to South 
Benders, but to all circus and menagerie proprietors, as "Taylor's field." How 
good his foresight was is demonstrated by the fact that this large tract with, as yet, 
but one house on it (the residence of his son-in-law, Mr. Nicar), is but one square 
south and two squares east of the exact center of the city. They were often troubled 
by the Indians who, while under the influence of " tire water," made trouble for the 
settlers. On one occasion, early one morning. Col. Taylor heard a noise at the door 
of his .store. He went down and opened it just as an Indian woman grabbed a club 
from an Indian standing in the door. Before Col. Taylor could ask what the trouble 
was, the woman killed the Indian with a single blow and then fled. Investigation 
showed that the Indian had killed her son a few minutes previous with the same 
club. In December, 1831, Col. Taj'lor called a meeting of the citizens to make an 
effort to have Congress establish a land office in South Bend. The bill passed the 



776 PIGTOMAL AND BIOGBAPHICAL 

Senate but failed in the House. The legal organization of the county was January 
29, 1830, about three years after Col. Taylor settled here. He was immediately 
elected clerk, recorder and auditor. He was at the same time postmaster, appointed 
by President Jackson, although a strong Whig. He was thus holding four public 
offices at one time, and two years later a fifth was added when he was colonel of the 
Seventy-ninth Indiana militia. The postofHce he kept in his store and the pigeon 
holes used then are now in the room where he died, together with his high desk and 
stool. He made young Tom Stanfield (afterward Judge Stanfield) deputy post- 
master, and afterward Lea P. Johnson acted in that capacity. He was so thoroughly 
honest in conducting the affairs of the postolfice that once when the mail carrier was 
sick and a colored boy brought the mail from Plymouth here, foe : .fused to send the 
return mail back by him, because his oath required that hemifsiccreliver mail to none 
but white carriers, and Mr. Johnson had to make the trip to Plymouth. In the 
county affairs the same strict dealing was ol)served. At his own expense he built a 
brick office on the site now occupied by Martin's harness store on Michigan street, 
and used it for the county offices. The first year he. Was in office he issued three 
marriage licenses and the last one, 1837, sixty-eight. Col. Taylor was appointed 
postmaster during Jackson's first term, when South Bend was made a postoffice town. 
He served through Jackson's second administration, and through a part of Van 
Buren's, but was removed for " offensive. partisanship," as it is called nowadays, 
but although Col. Taylor was an ardent Whig, and generous in donations to churches 
he was never known to talk politics or religion. He was removed because he insisted 
on his right to vote for Harrison. The crowning work of Col. Taylor's life in con- 
nection with this city, was his effort, in connection with Mr. Coquillard, to have the 
county seat located here. It had been located by a board of justices on the farm of 
William Brookfield, a Government surveyor, and the indications were there was a 
"job'' in it. The site was on the bank of the river, on what is now the James R. 
Miller farm, right at the head of Portage Prairie. Col. Taylor and Mr. Coquillard 
owned together, or separately, the land in and around South Bend. They agreed 
to donate fifteen old plat lots to the county to be sold to build a courthouse and jail; 
a lot each to the Baptist, Presbyterian and United Brethren Churches, and Col. 
Taylor afterward gave one to the Methodist Church; three lots for the courthouse 
square; four acres of ground for a cemetery; also $3,000 in cash to be paid in three 
yearly installments. The offer was accepted, and all its agreements were carried 
out to the letter, and Col. Taylor lived to see it become what he predicted it would 
be — the leading city of northern Indiana. Col. Taylor retired from business with a 
competence, when he was about fifty-five years old. He had an idea that a man 
ought not to be in active business after his sixtieth year. As he grew older the habits 
of his earlier years with the Indians seem to come back. He was a widower, his 
wife dying in 1879; his three children, Thaddeus S. Taylor, Mrs. D. K Wall, of 
Denver, Colo., and Mrs. Virginias Nicar, were married, and in spite of their per- 
suasions he would live alone. At the Nicar residence was a large, well-fiirnished 
room, always in readiness for him, yet, though he visited his daughter several times 
a day, he rarely ate, and more rarelj' slept there, always insisting on going back to 
his rooms in the Taylor Block, where he died. He had learned to cook and take 
care of hisrojm when an Indian trader, and he really enjoyed living over that early 
life in his last years. It will be seen by this hasty sketch of Col. Taylor's career 
that he was just the kind of a man for a pioneer. He was not a speculator, working 
for himself and to the injury of others. He was far-sighted and worked for the 
future of the town he founded, and for the benefit of all its people. He was above 
all else, honest to the fraction of a cent in all his dealings, whether as a public official 
or a private citizen. It is a record his son and daughters may be proud of. His death 
left but one of a large family of brothers and sisters, William C. Taylor, of 
Wadsworth, Cal. His brother, E. Pitts Taylor, for many years associated with him 
in business, and one of South Bend's pioneers, died September 2, 1887, having lived 
here since 1828. 



MEMOIRS OF INDIANA. 777 

J. M. Studebakeb was born ia Adams couuty, Penn., October 10, 1833, and when 
a cliild of two years he moved with his parents to Ashland count}', Ohio, where his 
father ran a blacksmith shop. When he reached the reqiiired age he started to at- 
tend a country school and had to walk two miles to the school-house every morning. 
He attended school imtil he reached the age of fifteen years, when his services were 
required by his father in helping to support the family. In the fall of 1851 his 
parents moved to South Bend, Ind., and the following winter they lived in a log 
cabin tour miles south of that place. The daily work of J. M. Studebaker during 
that winter was to start at daylight and walk a mile and a half to the woods where 
he cut two cords of ood each day. This wood his father hauled to town and all 
the money receiv f r it went to him. In the spring the father of J. M. Studebaker 
moved to South Bei^a, and J. M. started to learn the wagon maker's trade with a 
Mr. Chockelt. After working with him for about six mouths he left his employ and 
went to work for his brothers, Henry and Clem, who were running a blacksmith 
shop. The following winter he made a wagon which his brothers, being black- 
smiths, ironed for him. In the spring of 1853 he gave this wagon to a company 
about to cross the plains, for his passage to California. At this time he was but 
nineteen years old. Having borrowed $65 from his brothers, he started for Cali- 
fornia with this company ou March 23, 1853, and reached that State August 1, 1858, 
having traveled by land the entire distance. In those days there were no such 
things as roads and many times the men had to take the place of horses in pulling 
the wagons across wide and deep sloughs. The trip through Illinois and Iowa was 
a very hard one. At that time Omaha had but one trading post. They also suf- 
fered many hardships in their trip across the plains. The company was possessed of 
over a hundred head of horses and it seemed to be the one great ambition of the In- 
dians to secure as many of them as they could, and it required good management 
and great watchfulness on the part of the men to retain them, and during the entire 
passage but six horses were stolen by the redskins. Having crossed the Humboldt 
desert, they reached Carson Kiver July 10, 1853. Besides being weary and worn 
with their long journey, many of them had the scurvy because of having been with- 
out fresh meat for so many months. The Californiaus knowing this to be the case 
with the emigrants, generally sent a substitute with a supply of onions to meet them 
and Mr. Studebaker at one time purchased twenty onions for which he paid $20 in 
gold. Upon reaching Hangtown, Cal., he had just 15 cents in his pocket. Here he 
entered the employ of Mr. H. L. Hines as a wagon maker and his first job was a 
contract for making twenty-five wheelbarrows at $12 each. He remained with Mr. 
Hines until the spring of 1858, with the exception of three months during which 
time he tried his luck at mining. Many times he worked all night long in repair- 
ing coaches and mud wagons so that they would be ready for service in the morn- 
ing. For four years Mr. Studebaker did his own washing and mending and also 
did the cooking for the entire company, and while the food was cooking on the 
stove, he was at his bench at work. In the spring of 1813 he returned to South 
Bend by way of Panama. Upon his return he purchased a half interest in the 
wagon business which his brothers, Henry and Clem, were carrying on. His life 
from that time to the present has been spent in assisting to build up their present 
business until from the making of one wagon in two or three weeks or even a month, 
they now make IGO a day. 



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